Mercedes-Benz W201 - Gasoline Models

Gasoline Models

In 1982, the first available models were the 190 and 190E. Each was fitted with an M102 1,997 cc displacement motor. The 190 was fitted with an M102.921 90 hp (67 kW) engine and the 190E fitted with an M102.962 122 hp (91 kW) engine. In September 1983, the 190E 2.3 (2,299 cc) was released for the North American market only (although a 190E 2.3 appeared in other countries later), fitted with a 113 hp (84 kW) M102.961 engine. This reduction in power was due to the emissions standards in the North American market at the time. The intake manifold, camshaft, and fuel injection system were refined in 1984, and the engine produced 122 hp (91 kW). The carbureted 190 was revised in 1984 as well, increasing its horsepower rating to 105 hp (78 kW). 1984 also saw the arrival of the 2.3-16 "Cosworth."

In 1985, the 190E 2.3 now came fitted with the M102.985 engine, producing 130 hp (97 kW) hp until it was revised in 1987 to use Bosch KE3-Jetronic Injection, a different ignition system, and a higher compression ratio, producing 136 hp (101 kW).

1987 marked the arrival of the first inline-six equipped 190, the 190E 2.6. Fitted with the M103.940 engine, the 190E 2.6 provided 160 hp (119 kW) with a catalyst and 164 hp (122 kW) without. In the North American market, the 190E 2.6 was sold until 1993, the end of the W201 chassis's production. From 1992-1993 the 2.6 was available as a special "Sportline" model, with an upgraded suspension and interior. The 190E 2.3 was sold until 1988, then went on a brief hiatus until it was sold again from 1991 until 1993.