1987 Mercedes-Benz 190-Class User Reviews

Possibly The Best Car I've Ever Owned At Any Price. —

Having owned an 1987 190e 2.6 for 4 years as a daily driver, I can't praise this car enough. First - even the best condition lowest mileage example sell for near nothing ( around $5k ); Second - the 190e simply does everything better than one would expect. The 6 cylinder has extraordinary pep with an Under 8 Seconds 0-60; The handling and turning radius is superb - especially when fitted with Bilstein HD shocks. The interior - finished in the indestructible MB-Tex leatherette NEVER shows any wear unless you rip it; the trunk is large enough to accommodate 4 golf bags or 3 tires; Passengers both front and rear have ample leg, hip and headroom. Front seats are more supportive than most Mercedes with better seat and back bolsters - and if you get the electric seat option, even the headrests adjust with a button. Headed seats were a rare but desirable option. Gas mileage for the 2.6 averages in the low 20's although it does require premium. Parts are available as many were shared with other models. About 90% came through to the US as automatics, but 5 speed sticks are out there. If its the Cosworth 2.3-16v you're after because of the performance - be aware that was detuned for the US market and the 2.6 automatic does pretty much the same 0-60 times; The Cosworth engine is British-tweeked so you will NOT get the typical German reliability. If you are looking at any late 80's Mercedes, buy the best and lowest mileage example you can find. Things to look for: (1) The front fenders were painted ON the car so the bolts in the engine compartment should be painted; (2) The trunk was painted OFF the car and all original paint 80's Mercedes will have PRIMER ONLY - NO PAINT COLOR - on the underside of the trunk lid. And finally - LEARN the EXACT placement of where the factory put the model number designation on the trunk because it is the easiest clue to a car having been repainted or involved in an accident. Mercedes model emblems are on the LEFT; (BMW puts theirs on the right side). If the emblem is off-center, too high - too low - or on the wrong side - best pass on the car. I highly recommend the 190e to everyone. You will be amazed at how great these cars are.

Primary Use: Family transportation