With the introduction of the 190 series, Mercedes-Benz was going for mass appeal. The smallest model available from the carmaker, nicknamed the "Baby Benz," the 190 was a "family friendly" sedan. And thanks to its relatively affordable entry-level price matched with Mercedes' impeccable engineering, it was a largely successful model with car buyers.

Throughout its run, the Mercedes-Benz 190 was available in a variety of gas and diesel engine options, as well as limited editions that included such options a leather seats and alloy wheels.

However, for 1990 the 190 came only with a 2.6-liter, 6-cylinder gas engine that generated 158 hp. A 5-speed manual overdrive transmission was standard, though a 4-speed automatic was available as an option. Other standard equipment included anti-lock breaks, a driver's-side airbag, power windows, power door locks, and air conditioning. Options included a sunroof and leather seats -- not bad for an entry-level Mercedes.