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Mercedes-Benz 190E EVO II

ClassicMercedes-Benz
235 hp
Horsepower
1260 kg
Weight
RWD
Drivetrain
1990
Year

Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.5-16 Evolution II (Classic Touring Car)

The Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.5-16 Evolution II is one of the most iconic homologation specials ever built, developed by Mercedes-Benz for Group A touring car racing and introduced in 1990. With its outrageous factory aero, high-revving Cosworth-tuned four-cylinder, and race-bred chassis, it became a legend both on the street and on the circuit.

Key Specs (BoP-dependent, typical sim values)

  • Powertrain: 2.5L naturally aspirated inline-4 Cosworth 16-valve (front-mounted, longitudinal)

  • Total Output: ~235 hp (173 kW)

  • Redline: ~7,100 rpm

  • Transmission: 5-speed manual

  • Weight: 1,260 kg

  • Dimensions: ~4,455 mm long × 1,695 mm wide × 1,378 mm tall | Wheelbase 2,675 mm

  • Tires: Period-correct performance road tires on Mercedes alloys

  • Brakes: Ventilated discs

  • Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel drive

In the Simulator Feel

The 190E EVO II is a deliberate, mechanical, and deeply rewarding Classic touring car that asks for commitment and smoothness. It doesn’t overwhelm you with power, but it makes up for that with balance, predictability, and a chassis that communicates clearly at the limit. The big wing and flared arches give it a unmistakable silhouette, but the real magic is in how composed it feels when you start to lean on it through fast corners and braking zones.

Engine & Sound: The Cosworth-tuned 16-valve four-cylinder has a raspy, metallic bark and a crisp induction note that builds into a hard-edged mechanical howl near redline. It’s not a torque monster, so keeping the engine in its sweet spot is key — but the reward is a wonderfully authentic touring-car soundtrack that feels alive every time you lift or downshift.

Handling Characteristics:

  • Cornering: Neutral and progressive, with mild understeer at turn-in that can be balanced with throttle and patience.

  • Traction: Good for the era, but still requires respectful throttle application out of slower bends.

  • Braking: Strong and stable, with plenty of feel before the front end begins to push.

  • Top Speed: Respectable, though it shines more in momentum driving than outright straight-line pace.

Driving Style Tip: Drive it like a precision instrument. Carry speed, brake early and clean, and keep the chassis settled through transitions. It rewards drivers who value consistency and corner-exit momentum over late-braking aggression.

Livery & Aesthetics: The EVO II is pure motorsport theater — massive rear wing, wide fender flares, lowered stance, and unmistakable late-'80s/early-'90s Mercedes attitude. In touring-car liveries it looks every bit the homologation weapon it was built to be.

Whether you're enjoying hot laps, classic touring car battles, or just appreciating one of Mercedes-Benz's most famous road-and-race machines, the 190E EVO II is a timeless sim-racing favorite with real character.