One to Buy: ex-Cesare Perdisa, sunroof delete 1990 Mercedes-Benz 190 E 2.5-16 Evolution 2
Between the late 1980s and early 1990s, the FIA’s Group A Evolution rule spawned a series of spectacular homologation specials.
Once the original batch of 5000 Group A cars had been completed, it enabled manufacturers to create ever more extreme variants in annual batches of just 500 examples. Typically, Evolution machinery was tricked out with an array of race or rally-inspired features designed to make the competition version as competitive as possible.
Ford, BMW and Mercedes all famously went down this path with their Sierra Cosworth, M3 and 190 E Group A specials and today, the Evolution variants are typically the most highly prized by collectors.
Currently on offer at the Premium Classics showroom in Boxtel, the Netherlands, is arguably the best example of the ultimate 190 E produced: a non-sunroof Evolution 2.
One of just handful of Evolution 2’s to have been specified with the lighter, stiffer sunroof delete option, number 489 of the series was originally delivered to ex-Maserati Formula 1 racer, Cesare Perdisa, and has remained with his family since new.
Today, this most exceptional machine has covered 28,000km and remains in superb original, unrestored condition.
Reprinted below is Premium Classics’ description:
Year of construction: 07/1990
Odometer reading: 28,000km
Exterior: Diamond Black Metallic
Interior: Leather Black
Price: €399,950
The holy grail of the Deutsche Tourenwagen Meisterschaf: Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.5-16 Evolution II with only 28,000 original kilometers on the odometer. Directly from the first owner, the Italian ex F1 driver Cesare Perdisa and his family. A great driver who competed against Stirling Moss.
In absolute A1 condition inside and out. Complete first paint, with full board folder and all documentation. Sublime 190E that always been stored indoors. The underside is still full of factory wax and even the original paper engine sticker is still on the engine (see photo). All moldings around the windows still have the original golden glow; something that normally weathers quickly. The leather is still very matte, the back seat is unused and the smell is still as it was in the 1990 showroom.
In the late 1980s, the battle was fought between the BMW M3 E30 and the Mercedes-Benz 190E. Mercedes increased the engine they developed with Cosworth by 0.2 liters, now with 204 hp. Later came the Evolution, with a wider body kit and adjustable chassis.
In 1990 Mercedes introduced the Evolution II. Now with 235 hp, 17" rims, extended wheel arches and a strikingly large spoiler. Partly thanks to this enormous spoiler, the legend won no less than 16 of the 24 DTM races in 1992. This is how the Evo II became one of the most iconic homologation specials ever.
With only 502 units ever built, the Evo II is a true collector's car.
This copy is one of the last: number 489/502 and therefore one of the last fourteen produced. Equipped with full leather upholstery and air conditioning. What makes this car extra special is the option to deliver it from the factory without a sunroof.
While this was part of the standard equipment on an Evo II, very few examples are available. No extra weight, and certainly not in the roof of the car. Less is more, especially on a street version of a DTM car. Ultimate collectable with a beautiful history, which we would like to show you in all its glory in our showroom in Boxtel!
