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Mercedes Benz 190E (1982-93)

All Model Production Total: 1,874,668
Recorded in UK 2024
Licensed=589 SORN=1160

Mercedes Benz 190E (1982-93)

The Mercedes-Benz 190E (1982-1993) is generally known for its reliability, but like any vehicle, it has its share of common faults. Here are some of the issues that owners have reported:

1. **Water Pump Failure**: This can lead to overheating issues.
2. **Faulty Relays**: These can cause poor performance and increased fuel consumption.
3. **A/C Problems**: The air conditioning system may blow warm air when cold air is needed.
4. **Fuel System Breakdowns**: Issues with the fuel pump, injectors, etc.
5. **Electrical Failures**: Problems with the alternator, starter, battery, and other electrical components.
6. **Transmission Issues**: Shifting problems, delayed gear engagement, fluid leaks, and overheating.
7. **Head Gasket**: Overheating can cause damage to the head gasket.
8. **Engine Misfires**: These can lead to poor performance and unreliable operation.
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Generations
The Mercedes-Benz 190 series, specifically the W201 model, was produced over a single generation from 1982 to 1993. However, the "190" name has been used for various models over the years, including the 190SL (1955-1963) and other earlier models.
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Trim Levels
The Mercedes-Benz 190E (W201) had several trim levels and variants throughout its production from 1982 to 1993. Here are some of the notable ones:

1. **190E 1.8**: Introduced later in the production run, featuring a 1.8-litre engine.
2. **190E 2.0**: The standard model with a 2.0-litre engine.
3. **190E 2.3**: Equipped with a 2.3-litre engine, offering more power.
4. **190E 2.6**: Featuring a 2.6-litre six-cylinder engine for enhanced performance.
5. **190D**: Diesel variant with a 2.0-litre engine.
6. **190D 2.5**: Diesel variant with a 2.5-litre engine.
7. **190E 2.3-16**: A high-performance model developed in conjunction with Cosworth, featuring a 2.3-litre 16-valve engine.
8. **190E 2.5-16**: An evolution of the 2.3-16, with a 2.5-litre 16-valve engine.
9. **Evo I and Evo II**: High-performance homologation specials with significant upgrades for racing¹².
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Engines
The Mercedes-Benz 190E (W201) offered a variety of engines throughout its production from 1982 to 1993. Here are the main engine options:

1. **1.8-litre Inline-4 (M102)**: Producing around 109 hp.
2. **2.0-litre Inline-4 (M102)**: Producing around 118 hp.
3. **2.3-litre Inline-4 (M102)**: Producing around 130 hp.
4. **2.6-litre Inline-6 (M103)**: Producing around 160 hp.
5. **2.3-litre Inline-4 16-valve (Cosworth)**: Producing around 185 hp.
6. **2.5-litre Inline-4 16-valve (Cosworth)**: Producing around 204 hp.
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Performance
The performance of the Mercedes-Benz 190E (1982-1993) varied depending on the engine and trim level. Here are some general performance figures for different models:

1. **190E 1.8**:
- **Horsepower**: 109 hp
- **Top Speed**: Around 115 mph (185 km/h)
- **0-60 mph**: Approximately 11.5 seconds

2. **190E 2.0**:
- **Horsepower**: 118 hp
- **Top Speed**: Around 121 mph (195 km/h)
- **0-60 mph**: Approximately 10.5 seconds

3. **190E 2.3**:
- **Horsepower**: 130 hp
- **Top Speed**: Around 126 mph (203 km/h)
- **0-60 mph**: Approximately 9.5 seconds

4. **190E 2.6**:
- **Horsepower**: 160 hp
- **Top Speed**: Around 130 mph (209 km/h)
- **0-60 mph**: Approximately 8.5 seconds

5. **190E 2.3-16 (Cosworth)**:
- **Horsepower**: 185 hp
- **Top Speed**: Around 143 mph (230 km/h)
- **0-60 mph**: Approximately 7.5 seconds

6. **190E 2.5-16 (Cosworth)**:
- **Horsepower**: 204 hp
- **Top Speed**: Around 149 mph (240 km/h)
- **0-60 mph**: Approximately 7.1 seconds
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Spares
You can find spare parts for your Mercedes 190E (1982-1993) in the UK and Ireland from several sources. Here are some options:

1. **Millennium Mercedes Benz Ltd.**:
- **Location**: 2, Shuttleworth Court, Shuttleworth Road, Bedford MK41 0EN
- **Services**: Mercedes Benz servicing, MOTs, accident repair, and diagnostics
- **Contact**: 01234 218424

2. **Mercedes-Benz Of Bedford**:
- **Location**: Ampthill Road, Bedford MK42 9QZ
- **Services**: Approved Used Mercedes-Benz cars, part exchange
- **Contact**: 01234 272888

3. **EU-SPARES**:
- **Description**: Offers a comprehensive parts catalogue for the Mercedes-Benz 190 (W201)
- [Website](4)

4. **Classic Trim Parts**:
- **Description**: Specializes in interior, exterior, and electrical parts for the 190E and 190D

5. **Autodoc**:
- **Description**: Provides a wide range of parts suitable for the Mercedes-Benz 190 (W201)

6. **MB Part Source**:
- **Description**: Offers OEM parts and accessories for the Mercedes-Benz 190E
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Specialists
There are several garage services in Northern Ireland that can service your Mercedes 190E (1982-1993). Here are some options:

1. **Mercedes-Benz Of Belfast**:
- **Location**: 6 Boucher Crescent, Belfast BT12 6HU
- **Services**: Comprehensive servicing and maintenance for Mercedes-Benz vehicles
- **Contact**: 028 9068 9000

2. **MBNI Truck & Van**:
- **Location**: 47-49 Mallusk Rd, Newtownabbey BT36 4PJ
- **Services**: Specializes in Mercedes-Benz trucks and vans, but also offers services for cars
- **Contact**: 028 9034 2411

3. **Creevy Autos**:
- **Location**: 210 Ballygowan Road, Belfast BT5 7UB
- **Services**: Sales, servicing, and repair of Mercedes-Benz cars
- **Contact**: 028 9044 8362
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Racing
The Mercedes-Benz 190E (1982-1993) had a notable racing history, particularly with the high-performance 190E 2.3-16 and 2.5-16 models. Here are some highlights:

1. **Nürburgring Race of Champions (1984)**: To celebrate the opening of the new Grand Prix circuit at the Nürburgring, a one-make race was held featuring the 190E 2.3-16. Legendary drivers like Niki Lauda, Alain Prost, and Ayrton Senna participated, with Senna winning the race.

2. **German Touring Car Championship (DTM)**: The 190E 2.3-16 and later the 2.5-16 competed in the DTM series. The 190E had a successful run, with AMG-tuned versions winning races and competing fiercely against rivals like the BMW E30 M3.

3. **World Records**: In 1983, three prototypes of the 190E 2.3-16 set long-distance world records at the Nardo circuit in Italy, showcasing the car's durability and performance.

Additionally, several famous drivers raced the Mercedes-Benz 190E, particularly in the Nürburgring Race of Champions in 1984 and the German Touring Car Championship (DTM). Some of the notable drivers include:

1. **Ayrton Senna**: He won the Nürburgring Race of Champions in 1984, driving a 190E 2.3-16.
2. **Niki Lauda**: He also participated in the Nürburgring Race of Champions and finished second.
3. **Alain Prost**: Another legendary driver who competed in the Nürburgring Race of Champions.
4. **Hans Stuck**: Competed in the DTM series with the 190E.
5. **Joachim Winkelhock**: Another DTM driver who raced the 190E.
6. **Klaus Ludwig**: A prominent DTM driver known for his success with the 190E.

These drivers contributed to the 190E's rich racing history and helped cement its reputation as a formidable competitor on the track.

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