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Market Auction

1991 Mercedes 190E

At a Glance

Low Mileage Example | Family Owned Since New | Presents Exceedingly Well | Market Auction - Seller Created Auction

  • Mileage64,261 miles on the clock
  • TransmissionAutomatic
  • Engine1997
  • LocationBurnley

Market Auction

The seller has supplied the images and written the description - we have actioned seller ID, V5 and HPi checks - learn more

Market Auction

The seller has supplied the images and written the description - we have actioned seller ID, V5 and HPi checks - learn more

MARKET AUCTION

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CURRENT BID£1,000
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MARKET AUCTION

ENDS IN: 56 Days 12 Hr 51 Min51 Sec

CURRENT BID

£1,000

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Video #2

Introduction

A true head-turner from Mercedes’ golden era - this beautifully preserved 190E has been in the family for over 30 years.

Timeless 90's styling, bulletproof engineering, and rare Sportline specification make it a modern classic with serious charm.

The car has been in my wife’s family since new - her uncle owned it for 30 years and always looked after it. Even back then, I admired it and we used to talk about it often. When he sadly passed, I became the next custodian.

Having owned it for just under 3 years, I’m now selling it reluctantly, as it’s just not getting the use it deserves.

Market Auction

Sean, the seller, has created this listing themselves using our free Market Auction tool. Unlike our Curated Auctions, we haven’t photographed the car or written the listing, however we have completed 3 important security checks for your peace of mind.

V5C Checked

Sean provided a copy of the V5C logbook, which we verified against his photo ID for name and address confirmation.

ID Checked

Sean provided his photo ID, which we verified against the name and address on the V5C logbook.

History Checked

History check actioned using HPi, the industry’s top verification service, for finance, write-offs, and stolen records.

V5C Checked

Sean provided a copy of the V5C logbook, which we verified against his photo ID for name and address confirmation.

ID Checked

Sean provided his photo ID, which we verified against the name and address on the V5C logbook.

History Checked

History check actioned using HPi, the industry’s top verification service, for finance, write-offs, and stolen records.

EXTERIOR VIDEO
Video #2

Exterior

I’ve always loved the clean, angular lines of the 190E - it's a perfect example of classic '90s Mercedes design. The boxy silhouette, retro rear lights, and subtle chrome detailing give it a cool, unmistakable presence on the road.

Wheels and Tyres

The car sits on a set of rare 17" OZ Opera II split rims - a sought-after '90s wheel that closely replicates the iconic AMG monoblock style of the era. OZ actually manufactured wheels for Mercedes at the time, and these alone are worth over £1,000.

These alloys are in great condition, having had a full refurb in 2022. But I did manage to give the passenger side front a tiny curb mark only a few weeks after getting them back (typical!).

These are then wrapped in Hankook low profile tyres that have barely covered 1000 miles.

Bodywork

Overall the bodywork is super straight and in great condition. There are only a few minor things to mention that are to be expected with a car that is over 30 years old.

A small collection of stone chip blisters with slight rust bubbles above the right headlight near the grille.

Minor upward dink on the bonnet (likely from a tool being left on the air filter and then someone tried to shut the bonnet!)

Other than the above, there a just a few light age-related scuffs on the bumpers and some minor paintwork blemishes - typical for a classic car that was used as a daily driver in its day.

Paint

The Benz 'Brilliant Silver' paintwork is in great condition with no signs of fading - a testament to the high-quality paint and lacquer used by Mercedes during this era.

Recently, it has been treated to a full machine polish and wax, enhancing the original gloss and ensuring the finish remains head turning.

As mentioned above, there are just a few light age related blemishes, most likely from car doors in car parks etc.

Glass and Trim

The glass on this 190E is in excellent condition, free from any cracks or stone chips. The windscreen does exhibit some minor smearing from the original single wiper blade, a common characteristic of these models. However, this does not detract from the overall condition of the glass.

The black plastic bumpers are in good condition overall - there are some minor age-related scuffs and marks which are to be expected.

The chrome grille surround is in excellent condition. But there is a small chip out of the plastic grille.

The Mercedes circular badge has faded a little and is slightly loose (I do have a spare included in the sale)... but the classic Benz hood ornament is still standing proud and is in great condition.

The chrome detailing around the windows is in good condition, but does show some fading when compared to the grille.

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INTERIOR VIDEO
Video #2

Interior

When you get into the driver's seat, it's like sitting in a time capsule! She boasts a rare blue Sportline check interior and original Blaupunkt tape deck with pioneer speakers.

It even has the original first aid kit (see the interior video for detail)! It's pure nostalgia.

Seats and Carpets

The car boasts a rare blue sportline trim (but on standard seats) which is in great condition overall. The blue colour has faded slightly due to sun exposure, but there are no holes or obvious staining.

My wife's uncle never married or had children, so the passenger seats are practically untouched, while the driver's seat does have some wear on the foam and springs from entry and exit.

The carpets are pristine beneath the floor mats, which, while showing their age, have preserved the carpet beautifully. The headlining is also in great shape, and the original factory-fitted sunroof works perfectly.

The door cards are in great condition and really still have great colour on the trim, though there is some minor peeling on the driver's side passenger rear door, which is quite common due to sun damage and a couple of small nicks on the rear passenger door cards, likely from transporting long items.

Lastly, being very picky, the seatback pockets in the rear are sagging slightly from use.

Dashboard

The dashboard is in excellent condition, with its original blue hue and no sun damage or cracking. The center console is also well-preserved with its classic wood grain laminate.

There are a couple of minor cracks, which are very common in 190E's and don't detract from the overall appearance: one around the rear light dome button to the right of the speedometer, and another in the laminate on the center console by the automatic gear stick.

Steering Wheel / Gear Stick

The car still sports its original classic steering wheel and gear stick which are both in brilliant condition.

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Video #2

Mechanics

Engine pulls strongly with no signs of slippage or misfire - classic Mercedes reliability.

Lowered Sportline setup adds enjoyable road-holding whilst retaining the renowned Mercedes ride comfort.

A reliable, engaging drive that still turns heads!

Engine and Gearbox

With just over 64,000 miles on its original engine and gearbox, this car is a true gem.

The engine starts reliably and pulls strongly through all gears. Even after a longer period of inactivity, it only takes a moment to turn over.

It's a smooth ride, perfect for cruising. Both the engine and gearbox are known for their Mercedes peak-era reliability, ensuring a dependable driving experience.

Suspension and Brakes

The suspension and brakes are factory standard, offering the renowned Mercedes 190E ride quality.

The only modification is the addition of Eibach sport springs, which lower the car by 40mm. This enhances the handling while maintaining a smooth and comfortable ride.

The Drive

The ride quality is smooth and comfortable, a hallmark of this era of Mercedes engineering.

The addition of the lowering springs and larger wheels gives it a slightly sportier feel, making it a joy to drive on winding roads.

It's the perfect balance of comfort and agility.

Electrics and Other

The car is equipped with desirable electric windows and an electric sunroof, all in working order.

The passenger-side front window is a bit slow and sticky, so I tend to avoid using this one, but it does still function.

The electric radio antenna no longer extends automatically, but it's likely a simple fix, such as a new motor.

Lastly the speakers are a little crackley when adjusting the volume, but this is likely just a loose connection from behind the head unit. Overall, the electrics are in good condition for the car's age.

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Video #2

History and Paperwork

The car comes with a treasure trove of original parts and documents, including the Mercedes brochure, paint options guide, and even period E-Class brochures. It's a rare glimpse into the car's past, making it a true collector's item.

This 190E has a comprehensive service history dating back to 1991, starting with Mercedes main dealerships and transitioning to independent specialists in later years. It also has a long history of MOT certificates, ensuring it's been well-maintained throughout its life.

The car comes with a comprehensive collection of invoices and receipts, from present day right back to when it was brand new. It's a testament to the care this car has received over the years, with records for everything from routine maintenance to repairs.

This Baby Benz comes with its original factory steel wheels and hubcaps (so if the new owner would prefer the original wheels the option is there), a spare driver's seat from a low mileage car, a spare grille with some plastic damage, an original cassette tape holder, its complete original maintenance cleaning set with unopened bottles from the early '90s and two sets of keys. It's a great package for any enthusiast looking to preserve the car's originality.

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From Trade Classics:
This is a Market Auction listing, meaning we have not visited and photographed the car - instead the seller has supplied the images and written the description. However we’ve done all our usual seller checks, including photo ID that matches the V5, and also actioned a history check on the vehicle - this is a professional check operated by HPi that will highlight if the car has been previously stolen, recorded as being in an accident, or have any outstanding finance - note, this does not include a mileage history check.

Viewings are welcomed, so please get in touch with us via the 'contact us' page - we just need to speak to you first on the phone, have you register on the site, and also send in valid photo ID before confirming a suitable time to visit.

Like all our auctions, if there's anything you're unsure about, no matter how small, then please first ask the owner in the comments area below before placing your bids, as bids can't be retracted and form a binding contract if you win the car - the Buyer's Premium is not refundable in any instance, just like a traditional auction house.

Key Details
  • Model 190E
  • Transmission Automatic
  • Reg. Date 31-12-1991
  • CC 1997
  • Mileage 64,261
  • Colour Silver
  • Interior Colour Blue
  • Interior Trim Cloth
  • Chassis # WDB2010242F855855
  • Engine # 10296222158894
  • Last Service 21-09-2022
  • MOT 05-10-2025
  • Former Keepers 2
  • Tyre Brand Hankook
  • Visited No - Seller created listing.
  • Sale Type Private
  • Owned 3
  • Vehicle Registration H212 CCK
  • Driver’s Side RHD
  • Fuel Type Petrol
  • Body Type Saloon - 4 Door
  • Auction ID 20066
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Video #2

All Images

Exterior

Interior

Mechanics

History and Paperwork

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Vehicle Location

Burnley

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    Insurance Quote


    Average annual insurance premium for a Mercedes 190E like this is £TBC via our trusted partner ClassicLine.
    GET AN INSURANCE QUOTEAnd get 10% off when you mention us.

    *Quote is based on a garaged vehicle in CV32 5QY (Leamington Spa), travelling 3,000 miles per year, 1 driver who is 45 years of age and is free on accidents and convictions – valid Summer 2025.

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    Vehicle Location

    Burnley

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