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HISTORY OF THE 16V
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Model 190E 2.3-16V (1983-1988)
Model 190E 2.5-16V (1988-1993) E (Einspritzung) = fuel injection. The 190E 2.3-16V model, the high performance version of the small Mercedes line, was first publicly exhibited at the Frankfurt Auto Show in September 1983, but its well-deserved reputation for a fantastically fast car had already preceded it. In August at the Nardo, Italy, track the 190 2.3-16V had set three world records; the fastest average speed of 154.06 miles per hour (247.939kph) was for 50,000 kilometers. And twelve international class endurance records were also established there- from 1,000 kilometers at 153.54 miles per hour to the 24 hours at 153.30 mph (246.713kph). Those cars were only slightly modified from the regularly available stock version. The windshield wipers, headlight wipers, and outside rearview mirrors were removed, and headlight and grille shields were fitted. The rear axle ratio was changed to 2.65:1. Tires were Pirelli P7s. Otherwise, the cars were standard. The engine of the 2.3-16V model developed Cosworth engineers, have the light alloy cylinder head with twin (dual) overhead camshafts and four valves per cylinder, electronically controlled (Bosch LE Jetronic) fuel injection, air bathed injection valves, single poly-V-belt, hydraulically damped engine bearings, and an oil cooler. (It developed 72 more HP and 41 lbs/ft more torque than the regular single overhead cam 190 Engine.) This M102 2.3-liter (2,299 cc) engine developed 185 DIN Horsepower at 6,000 rpm. Torque was 174 lbs./ft at 4,500 rpm. Acceleration was about 8 seconds from 0-100 kilometers (62 mph), and max. speed with the standard 3.07 rear axle was 230 Kilometers (144 Miles) per hour. The flexible engine allowed the car to be driven in fifth gear also at 50 Kilometers (31 miles) per hour. The slight increase in engine size did not give the car a greatly improved performance. The power output increased by 10HP and the torque remained the same, but it was in keeping with the current trend of improving the existing lines. For competition purposes in Germany an “Evolution” version of 502 units was produced in March 1989. The slightly altered short-stroke engine developed in competition trim 315-320 HP and improved torque characteristics. It sold to selected competitors for DM 87,204. |
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