by A rare racing Mercedes-Benz 190 E 2.3-16 in DTM Group A specification, built in 1988 to compete in the German Touring Car Championship, has been put up for sale in Germany. The car has undergone a complete restoration and has been brought back to its 1988 season condition. This is reported by Mechatronik.
The 190 E 2.3-16 model became the foundation of Mercedes-Benz’s racing program during the formative era of Group A. The production version was equipped with a 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine with a 16-valve head, which produced 170 hp and allowed it to accelerate to 220 km/h.
Mercedes-Benz 190 E 2.3-16 DTM: Technology and Regulations
The 1988 DTM championship was held under Group A rules, which required the racing car to be as close as possible to the production model. The basic architecture of the body, engine, and chassis was retained. This is precisely what gave the 190 E an advantage with its multi-link rear suspension, stable behavior at the limit of traction, and well-thought-out aerodynamics.
For racing, the car received a widened track, special aerodynamic elements, and tires sized 205/55 R15. Even in its base form, the model had ABS and a rigid passenger safety cell, which met the high safety standards of the time.
Racing History and Restoration
The specimen offered for sale was built by AMG in 1988 and had its own factory chassis number. The engine power in the racing version increased to approximately 300 hp, and the weight was reduced to less than 1000 kg. The car received racing suspension, magnesium wheels, a roll cage, and a spartan interior.
In the 1988 season, the car was driven by Thomas von Löwis of Menar, who completed the full championship on tracks in Germany and Europe. In 2023–2024, the car was fully restored by Mercedes-Benz specialists in Gstaad, returning it to its authentic late-1980s appearance.
