It was a gamble when Daimler Benz presented the Mercedes Benz 190 in 1982, which had been developed at a cost of around DM 1.4 billion and at the same time provided new production capacity for a further DM 1.4 billion in brakes. From the point of view of those responsible at the time, however, it was essential to expand the production range "downwards" and the success of the "Baby Benz" with 1.88 million units produced proved the makers right. Without the 190/190E, the successor, the C-Class, would never have been created and this still serves as a pillar of the entire company today.
The book "Mercedes 190" by authors Hans J. Schneider, Valentin Schneider and Halwart Schrader seamlessly documents the history and success of the Mercedes 190, which was built from 1982 to 1993.
Actually, there are two books that you buy together. The first deals with the history and essence of the car, the second with maintenance, servicing and repairs.
Prologue - Environment and development
The history of the Mercedes 190 naturally begins long before its presentation, and the three authors spend many pages explaining how opinions were formed within the Group, how the first prototypes were created and how the final product was finally presented to the press on December 8, 1982.
All variants in detail
The 4.42 meter long, always four-door Mercedes Benz 190 was carefully designed, Daimler Benz did not want to compromise on safety and durability, the risk of damaging its reputation was too high.
The book explains all the variants produced, starting with the small four-cylinder engines with carburetors and fuel injection, through the diesel variants, the in-line six-cylinder engines with a displacement of 2.6 liters to the sporty sixteen-valve engines, which were developed as a basis for racing in collaboration with Cosworth.
Sectional drawings, detailed photos, diagrams and lots of detailed information illuminate the various types from all sides. Extensive photographic material, mainly from factory stock, shows the differences and characteristics of the various versions. Unfortunately, the 215-page book does not include color charts and price lists, as this would have gone beyond the scope of the book. Some readers would also have appreciated a more in-depth look at the advertising illustrations and measures or a reproduction of sample pages from the operating instructions. But even so, it is easy to get to grips with the essence of the 190 and for more in-depth research, interested readers will have to obtain the relevant brochures and literature themselves.
On the other hand, there are also exotic things to read about, such as the electric versions of the 190, the appearance of which most people have probably long forgotten.
Further back, there is also a chapter on tuning, which makes a lot of sense for the 190, as the tuning wave was at its peak at the end of the 1980s.
The motorsport successes
A lot of space is given to the most sought-after model of the series today as a youngtimer, the 190E 2.3-16 and its brother the 190E 2.5-16. From the development to the famous presentation at a race by prominent racing drivers of the time to the world record drive in Nardo, nothing is left out and of course there is also extensive photographic material in this section.
The evolution models are also sufficiently described, as is their use in racing. The focus here is of course on the successful participation in the DTM, but the rally variants are also discussed. This part of the book concludes with a detailed list of racing results.
The 190 as a youngtimer and classic car
In the meantime, early 190s are already over 30 years old and have therefore become classic cars, but the entire range of models can definitely be counted as youngtimers. The authors explain what you should look out for when buying an aged 190 in a separate chapter of around 20 pages. They not only address possible defects, but also provide information on repair costs. You learn, for example, that reupholstering a seat costs around 250 euros. And, of course, you will also find out how high the market prices quoted at the time of going to press are for all relevant models along the various condition grades.
The first of the two volumes concludes with the adventures surrounding the purchase of a youngtimer baby Benz and various journeys undertaken in the 303,000 km 190.
Maintenance and repairs on the long-term automobile
The second booklet enclosed with the larger main work is aimed more at the owners of the Baby Benz. It was printed as a brochure and comprises just over 100 pages. It deals with problems and solutions for the most important assemblies. For example, you can find out what to do if the hood pull is stuck or if the engine gets too hot. Many tips and practical photos explain how to overcome the typical difficulties.
A good index would certainly have been desirable in this volume, because in the present form only sequential searching of the individual chapters leads to success.
Maintenance instructions, setting data and some other useful information also make this second part interesting for potential buyers.
Worth the money
To summarize, it can be said that the 320 pages in two books are definitely worth the not quite 30 euros (around 40 Swiss francs). The print quality is good, the choice of pictures is pleasing and the text is well researched. It is best to keep the small volume in the car (for emergencies) and the larger one in the library at home.
Bibliographical information
- Title: Mercedes 190 - model history, buying advice, breakdown assistance (Passion Youngtimer)
- Authors: Hans J. Schneider, Valentin Schneider, Halwart Schrader
- Language: German
- Publisher: Schneider Media / Delius Klasing Verlag, 1st edition
- Scope: 320 pages (Volume 1 approx. 216 pages, Volume 2 104 pages), 747 photos (color), 60 photos (b/w)
- Format: 21.9 x 26.7 cm, hardcover (volume 2 is paperback)
- ISBN number: 978-3-7688-5810-6
- Price: € 29.90 (D) / € 30.80 (A) / sFr 40.90 (CH)
- To order: Online at amazon.de
, at the publisher Delius Klasing or in well-assorted bookstores
