The Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.5-16 Evolution II, unveiled in 1990, is one of the most legendary homologation specials ever produced, born directly from the intense touring car battles of the Deutsche Tourenwagen Meisterschaft (DTM). Based on the already respected W201 chassis, the Evolution II took the compact executive 190E and transformed it into a full-blown race car for the road, showcasing Mercedes’ determination to dominate motorsport and rival BMW’s M3 Sport Evolution.

Under the hood sat a 2.5-liter 16-valve inline-four, co-developed with Cosworth, producing 235 horsepower at 7,200 rpm in road-going trim. Power was sent to the rear wheels via a Getrag 5-speed manual dogleg gearbox, giving the Evo II a raw, engaging character. While its output was strong for the era, the real magic lay in its race-bred engineering—lightweight construction, optimized suspension geometry with self-leveling rear suspension, and brakes designed to withstand competition abuse. On track, the race-prepared versions would go on to produce well over 350 hp, proving just how capable the platform was.

Visually, the Evo II was extreme and unforgettable. Its wide fender flares, deep front splitter, sculpted side skirts, and enormous adjustable rear wing weren’t just for show—they were developed in the wind tunnel to provide serious aerodynamic advantage, generating real downforce, a rarity for road cars of the time. The body sat lower and wider than a standard 190E, riding on 17-inch Evo II wheels, giving it a stance that screamed DTM aggression even on the street.

Inside, the Evo II retained Mercedes’ solid build quality but featured a more focused, driver-oriented atmosphere, with sport seats, unique trim, and subtle badging distinguishing it from lesser W201 models. Only 502 units were ever produced to satisfy DTM homologation requirements, making it an incredibly rare and highly collectible machine today.

In competition, the 190E Evolution II became a DTM icon, famously battling BMW’s M3 and Ford’s Sierra Cosworth in one of touring car racing’s most celebrated eras. With its combination of race car engineering, outrageous aero, and Mercedes precision, the Evo II remains a symbol of ’90s motorsport excess and one of the most desirable Mercedes-Benz models ever built. It wasn’t just a sport sedan—it was a street-legal touring car, a machine that perfectly embodied the spirit of homologation specials and secured its place as a legend in automotive history.

RC 1/12 Mercedes 190E Evo 2

0.2mm layer, 2 walls, 15% infill