Mercedes Benz 190 E 2.5-16 Evolution II 1990, Alemanha

Mercedes Benz 190 E 2.5-16 Evolution II 1990, Alemanha

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Born from intense competition with BMW’s superb M3, the Mercedes-Benz 190 E 2.3-16 was the result of a partnership with famed engineering firm Cosworth. The W201 chassis was beefed up with larger anti-roll bars, harder bushings, limited-slip differential, quicker dampers, and a faster steering ratio. Getrag provided the five-speed dogleg gearbox to ensure fast and easy gear selection. Cosworth took the standard 2.3-liter 8-valve engine and fitted a light alloy cylinder head, dual-overhead cams, and four valves per cylinder. Continued development resulted in an increase in engine displacement to 2.5-liters in 1988 and the Evolution variants of the 190 Cosworth.

The initial Evo model overhauled the platform into a thoroughbred racer by installing a tuned version of the 2.5-liter motor. A higher rev limit, larger brakes, and improved tires meant the Evolution accelerated and stopped better than ever before. Further enhancements included wider a front and rear track, stiffer adjustable suspension, and revised bodywork. For the Evo II model, the engineers squeezed out more potential to an impressive 235 hp. Brembo four-piston calipers were quick to bring the car to a halt. The true highlight of the Evo II is the aero kit that features a towering rear spoiler, imposing fender flairs, and an even more aggressive front splitter.

This rare Evo II was delivered new from Germany directly to a customer in Japan, where it resided until 2015. Its Japanese owner carefully maintained this very special high-performance Mercedes-Benz and kept the service records that still accompany the car. A Canadian collector acquired the Evo II, importing it to British Columbia. The original export certificate, dated 2015, is included with the car, as are receipts that illustrate the loving attention this Mercedes-Benz has received since its arrival in North America.

Today the car has logged some 42,000 kilometers (~26,100 miles) on the odometer. This example is a later version that features an airbag steering wheel as well as cloth pepita seat inserts that are rarely seen in the model. The red leather bag containing the factory books and manuals, all printed in Japanese, as well as the factory tool roll issued to the car when new are included.

With a unique Japanese provenance and captivating character, this very rare 190 E 2.5-16 Evolution II is highly coveted by Mercedes-Benz enthusiasts the world over.

Lamborghini Diablo 1991, Itália

Lamborghini Diablo 1991, Itália
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The Lamborghini Diablo first appeared on 21 January 1990 as a long-overdue replacement for the Countach, which had been on sale in various guises since 1974. Marcello Gandini’s design language of a wedge shape and cabin-forward design was carried over to the Diablo, but it was considerably refined and made less angular by Chrysler both in the pursuit of aerodynamic performance and to increase its appeal to a wider audience. Power came from a 5.7-litre, fuel-injected version of the evergreen Giotto Bizzarrini V-12 engine, capable of 485 bhp, which unlocked a top speed on the interesting side of 200 mph.

This example is one of the 873 first-generation cars that were produced between 1990 and 1998. Painted in Giallo Fly with Nero interior piped in yellow, it is unmistakable as a Lamborghini and presents in fine condition throughout. Delivered new to Germany, the car remains in well-preserved condition throughout, having been subject to one repaint. Its service history includes numerous invoices and shows diligent care with a recent comprehensive overhaul in 2018, which addressed every minor issue uncovered by an appraisal in 2015.

An analogue supercar in fine fettle, early Diablos are a thrill to drive and offer many noticeable updates over the final generations of the Countach. These early cars proved to be an excellent platform from which future generations of Lamborghinis evolved, staying in production for over a decade. This example is ready to thrill its next owner.