Description
A fully original and pristine condition Mercedes 190E with an impressively low mileage of 86, 000. Meticulously cared for, inside and out, and driven only on dry sunny days by by true enthusiasts. This is a car you can enter into shows, or just enjoy driving as a very special daily vehicle. Take good care of her and she will probably outlive all of us!
HISTORY FILE:
This unique vehicle boasts a full service history, having undergone 24 services, fully evidenced by a thick folder of paperwork. The first 12 instances, completed up until 2005 at 51, 000 miles, were carried out by Mercedes-Benz main dealers, adhering to manufacturer-specified intervals. Subsequently, the car has been entrusted to independent garages, with the most recent engine and gearbox servicing expertly handled by Mercedes specialist B. J. Masons in Sheffield.
The car has spent almost all its life in the milder climates of South East England. In its nascent years, the car experienced the care of four owners within the first three years as a nearly-new vehicle, residing in Berkshire then Kent. Following this initial period, a gentleman from the Canterbury area took the reins, treasuring the vehicle for an impressive 25 years. The subsequent 6th and 7th owners, both fervent 190 enthusiasts from the South East, continued the legacy. I acquired this remarkable vehicle In May 2023 but lack of space now forces a reluctant sale.
Note: a digital history file for this vehicle on custodian. club is available upon request
EXTERIOR CONDITION:
Upon acquiring the car, its bodywork already presented in excellent condition, a testament to the diligent care by the previous owner. The vehicle had been garaged, reserved for weekend pleasure drives. A few minor rust spots on the roof and under the rear window seal were promptly addressed at Roberts Motor Bodies in Sheffield—a trusted specialist in classic car bodywork.
Beneath the car, the story is equally reassuring. The underside had been previously treated with Waxoyl, maintaining a rust-free and solid foundation. The four original 8-hole alloys exhibit very good condition, with minor blemishes but no kerbing. Paired with matching Autogreen Sport Chaser tyres, less than two years old and boasting excellent tread, the combination ensures a safe and reliable ride.
The car's exterior, a standout for its age, never fails to draw admiration from passers-by. A testament to its exceptional condition, an exterior detailing would likely elevate it to show-worthy standards.
Issues to note: the antenna is functioning for radio reception but does not retract.
INTERIOR CONDITION:
Step into timeless elegance with the inviting "biscuit cream" checked cloth interior that beautifully complements the captivating "Rosso Red" exterior paint. This well-appointed interior is a testament to both style and preservation, presenting in virtually unmarked condition with no damage to any of the seats or bolsters. From the headlining to the door cards, carpets, and the original Mercedes-Benz floor mats—every detail reflects a commitment to cleanliness and care.
Elevating the interior ambiance, the upgraded burr walnut trim and the full-length center console contribute to the high-quality feel, all maintained in excellent, clean condition. A more modern JVC head unit has been fitted, allowing for an iPhone USB connection for music playback. Notably, the original Blaupunkt Cambridge CC31 cassette deck is included (though it remains untested). Enthusiasts will be pleased to learn the original Mercedes-Benz first aid kit is present as is the tool kit under the boot carpet, and the original booklet pack and folder.
ENGINE AND RUNNING GEAR:
Under the hood, this is the fuel-injected 190E equipped with the 2. 0-liter M102. 962 four-cylinder engine—an ultra-reliable powerhouse with roots tracing back to its debut in the W123, and refined over nearly 15 years until its production conclusion in 1994. In its youth, this engine delivered a robust 122 horsepower, a figure that may have naturally diminished with the passage of time. Nevertheless, the car continues to impress, offering superb driving dynamics with more than sufficient power and comfort to navigate today's roads.
The four-speed automatic transmission shifts effortlessly through the gears and has been well maintained with gearbox oil changes at 70k and 85k miles.
No issues to note—the car drives exactly as it should. A full list of recent parts replacement is available upon request. This particular vehicle is the 190LE, a limited edition model sold only in the UK and Ireland. This exclusive model represents one of only 1, 000 units produced for the 1993 model year, marking the conclusion of the 190's impressive 11-year production legacy.
Having driven it for 2, 000 miles last year before garaging for the winter, I can attest to the sheer pleasure of every journey—an experience that transforms each trip into a special event.
This particular 190 comes with an extensive documentation package, including a thick folder of records evidencing its comprehensive service history together with catalogued invoices and MOT records dating back to 1996. It's not just a car; it's a meticulously documented piece of automotive history, waiting for the next discerning custodian to appreciate and continue its journey.
