1990 2.5-Liter Mercedes-Benz 190 Evolution II

This extraordinary Mercedes was acquired by The Patrick Collection from the Mercedes-Benz press office fleet, and has covered just over 16,000 carefully-maintained miles. It is one of just six examples exported to Britain of the Mercedes-Benz Evolution II out of a total production run of only 502.

Launched at the March 1990 Geneva Salon, the left-had-drive-only homologation special was an instant sell-out, even at its price of over $86,000, which was some $34,300 more than the standard 2.5 – 16 version of the Mercedes 190.

With its spectacular rear wing, the “Evo II” was designed for the German Touring Car Championship. It carried the most spectacular rear wing seen on a production car since the days of the 1969 Dodge Daytona and 1970 Plymouth Superbird.

The aerodynamics of the 190 Evolution II were developed by Professor Richard Eppler of Stuttgart University – known as the “Wing Pope” – who managed to create positive downforce at both ends...