Features

• Covers all models, with petrol and diesel engines, pre- and post-facelift
• Includes the high-performance 190 E 2.3-16 and 2.5-16 derivatives
• Will help you decide if the 190 is right for you …
• … and if now is the right time to buy a ‘Baby Benz’
• Advice on choosing the right version, options and colours
• Comprehensive inspection guide
• Real-world running costs and parts prices
• Will help you determine whether a complete restoration is worthwhile
• Packed with key facts and figures
• Details of independent specialists, clubs and online support
Description

Stop! Don’t buy a Mercedes-Benz 190 car without this book!

Looking for Mercedes’ legendary build quality in a car you can use every day? The 190 (W201) range offers a unique blend of timeless styling and advanced engineering. But buying any car of this age demands care: follow the helpful guidance in this book to assess a promising car like a professional, and find the right car at the right price!
Synopsis

The 190 (W 201) was a landmark car for Mercedes-Benz: the predecessor to today’s C-Class models, it was the company’s first compact saloon (sedan) and combined advanced engineering with a new direction in body styling, later followed by the W124 and R129 series. Engines available included robust petrol and diesel ‘fours’, as well as a silky ‘straight-six’. The sporting 190 E 2.3-16 and 2.5-16 models, initially developed with Cosworth, took Mercedes to new levels of performance. Altogether, nearly 1.9 million cars were produced, and today the 190 is an increasingly sought-after modern classic.
This guide will help you learn about the differences between models, and what to look for when buying. What are the true running costs, and what issues – with the mechanicals, body or interior – should you be wary of? Is a restoration worth considering?
This handy guide will take you step-by-step through the process of finding and evaluating a good 190 and making a successful purchase. Essential data and information about clubs and specialists will help you look after and enjoy your 190.
Additional Information

Mercedes’ first-ever compact saloon, the 190 is now an increasingly sought-after modern classic.

The only guide in English specifically written to help the would-be buyer choose the right 190.

• Practical, easy to use layout based on successful EBG format
• 100 colour illustrations show key points to check close-up
• Notes on the evolution of the car during its production life
• Handy checklists to take with you when looking at cars to buy
• Written with the support of independent specialists and Mercedes itself

Introduction
– the purpose of this book 3

1 Is it the right car for you?
– marriage guidance 6

2 Cost considerations
– affordable, or a money pit? 8

3 Living with a 190
– will you get along together? 10

4 Relative values
– which model for you? 12

5 Before you view
– be well informed 15

6 Inspection equipment
– these items will really help 18

7 Fifteen minute evaluation
– walk away or stay? 20

8 Key points
– where to look for problems 25

9 Serious evaluation
– 60 minutes for years of
enjoyment 26

10 Auctions
– sold! Another way to buy your 
 dream 44
11 Paperwork
– correct documentation is
essential! 46

12 What’s it worth?
– let your head rule your heart! 49

13 Do you really want to restore?
– it’ll take longer and cost more
than you think 51

14 Paint problems
– bad complexion, including
dimples, pimples and bubbles 52

15 Problems due to lack 
of use
– just like their owners, 190s
need exercise! 54

16 The Community
– key people, organisations and
companies in the 190 world 56

17 Vital statistics
– essential data at your fingertips 58

Index 64