Record-Breaking Mercedes-Benz 190E at Nardo
In 1983, Mercedes-Benz took their unreleased 190 E 2.3-16 performance sedan to Nardò. It went full throttle, all day and night, for nine days and beat three world records.
In the period from August 11th to 21st, the 190E broke records for 50,000 kilometres, 25,000 miles and 25,000 kilometres in nearly stock configuration that eliminated the cooling fan and power steering.
Three cars were used for the test which was completed just before the model’s international debut at the IAA International Motor Show.
After revealing the 190 E 2.5-16 EVO in 1989 the model would later go on to continued success in Group A motorsports alongside the BMW M3.
We have assembled a photo page of the historic runs at Nardò
1983 Mercedes-Benz 190 E 2.3-16 – Of the three cars sent to Nardò, the red colour car beat the records, including the nine-day run to 50,000 kilometres Image by Daimler AG.
1983 Mercedes-Benz 190 E 2.3-16 – Again the successful red car which completed the nine-day, flat-out run Image by Daimler AG.
1983 Mercedes-Benz 190 E 2.3-16 – Overhead view of the frantic driver swaps, fuel fill and general check-over. Image by Daimler AG.
1983 Mercedes-Benz 190 E 2.3-16 – The green car was still running after nine days. Image by Daimler AG.
1983 Mercedes-Benz 190 E 2.3-16 – The 190 E 2.3-16 was launched just days after the record run at the 1983 IAA International Motor Show. Image by Daimler AG.
