Dare I say it: The Mercedes 190E Evo II is cooler than any E30 M3.

I'm beyond excited for this one, and I hope you guys enjoy it: a bit of a dive into the W201 Mercedes 190E 2.5-16 EVO II. This car is a true motorsports legend.

[@masterchief3114]

Vin was wrong, Mike isn't a big Ferrari guy... he is a big Mercedes guy now hehehe

[@brianmclean3458]

Just a car guy deep down...very legit person

[@sebastianeiselt37]

Reverse Hamilton

[@0222tomi]

Gay

[@LooseNut099]

More of this please, Mike. Being a fan of all things automotive doesn’t necessarily mean sticking to one brand. Thanks for the tour!

[@mndlessdrwer]

Being in love with a particular brand should not preclude the appreciation of others. BMW makes excellent cars, but they aren't the only ones and the 190E is a much nicer car to live with compared to the original M3.

[@cjsawinski]

I think gear heads can appreciate the 80’s-90’s generation of cars. They all were analog for one. But you had all kinds of mechanical innovations going on from turbo charging, AWD, or even just a very simple lightweight chassis with a high revving NA inline 4. Modern cars from somewhere in the early 2000’s and on just don’t have the same character or will never be able to evoke the same emotion as something from the 80’s-90’s…

[@Boz196]

Lets goooo 190E is so sick, a guy on my street owns one and it's a joy to look at.

[@booblam6919]

That's great

[@andrewcarbone6192]

Please accept this comment as a reason to do more videos like this

[@philcrookes5281]

As I'm British, you could have mentioned a little company called cosworth engineering 🤷🏼‍♂️

[@l3358]

The only reason the car was any good to begin with was the Cosworth influence

[@griffins750]

I mean compared to the rest of the story behind the 190E Cosworth's role was rather minor. Not to slight your country but there are better examples of sick British engineering throughout automotive history, like Lotus building a Corvette engine, or Lotus making a 90s Hellcat used to ram raid shops because the police couldn't catch it (talking of course about the Lotus Carlton).

[@philcrookes5281]

@@griffins750 agreed but still worth a mention. Cosworth made engines work properly winning margins aren't massive after all

[@gillesklr650]

Thank you, this video brought back some great memories. As a Canadian Soldier, my wife and I were posted to Germany from 1986 to 1992. I have great memories of spending Sunday mornings driving on the B500 through the Black Forest. It seemed that the only drivers on the road were enthusiast like myself. We drove a moderately modified 1987 VW Scirocco 16 valve. The other cars were anything from stock to highly modified Mercedes, BMW’s, Audi’s , Porsches. You name and it was there. The best thing was that all drivers were driving quite aggressively but yet were also considerate. In the last few yrs in Germany there a lot of the 190’s and even saw a few heavily modified 190’s with full custom body kits and engine mods. Oh man those were great times. Thanks for the memories.

[@RogueViirus12]

Always enjoy a good article in video form. Being able to dig up not just old photos but race footage really adds an extra layer of appreciation for the cars being talked about.

[@flyboy7399]

I thought he bought this instead of the M1 😅 Looking forward to the video on the M1!

[@gontzi7]

So he bought an M1 confirmed?

[@quekapital]

Me2. I was actually disappointed.

[@dalirose9065]

@@gontzi7if you watched the Q&A video. He “hinted” at it, but basically admitted it straight out.

[@SollessGarage]

Dude, you're not supposed to mention whats in the box.....

[@bryanreeves369]

😂

[@AndrewS90]

Winningest is the correct word to use, in fact I’d say it is 200% correct here. Just had to get that out of the way.

[@beatingyou01]

Owning both a 190e 16-valve and an e30 m3, I will say, the 16-valve is the better all-around driving car. It's great to see them starting to get the appreciation they deserve.

[@idobref]

I've been saying that for years, but nobody listens to me (I also have both cars)

[@beatingyou01]

@@idobref I feel you, brother

[@duncanhamilton5841]

owned a pair of 2.3-16s, and an E30 Cecotto edition - I preferred the 190s, not only a far better car for 95% of the time driving, but also a little more communicative right on the limit. The M3 was faster flat out, but I didn't have the talent or space for it.

[@cjsawinski]

Ehhh, can’t say how jealous I am of you lol. My lifetime dream garage has those two cars and an air cooled 911. I’m fortunate enough for now that I have a ratty old air cooled in my garage. But it’s going to take me 5-10 years and a lot of money to get through all the work it needs.

[@beatingyou01]

@@cjsawinski Then I will refrain from making you even more jealous by not telling you what else is in my garage 😆

[@MattBorchert]

This is one of my all-time grail cars. Incredible.

[@mikemoye8600]

90’s motorsports was where it’s at and sadly I don’t think will ever return

[@v4skunk739]

Blame the FIA for it. Group-A like regulations need to come back.

[@stephenfrancis303]

​@@v4skunk739 80s

[@stephenfrancis303]

80s early 90s

[@boozelala]

When I worked for MB a dealer invited me to have a coffee and a chat, first floor of his dealership had his personnal collection, he had 2 EVO2's and my jaw dropped when I saw them. Sadly couldn't drive them. It's not that he didn't want me to , issue was the Gulwing blocking the exit of the first floor entrance. What a problem to have!

[@johnsnow2809]

Haven’t watched yet, but got the notification and can’t agree more. Love E30s more than just about anything ever put on the road, but the 190e is just a gorgeous car. Edit: Watched it and love this format. Would love to see more of this type of content from you.

[@briangriffith3985]

it not only had adjustable aero, it also had electronically adjustable front sway bar. one of my hero cars

[@ChrisGrantForReal]

Thanks for doing this video, Mike. I had the privilege of being able to spend time alone with an Evo II a couple years ago, with no one around, as a part of a private collection tour. Man are they low when the suspension is in full race mode! I knew I was experiencing something special, just sitting in it rowing through gears (with the engine off). This video just made that experience even more special.

[@andrewromain7756]

Hey Mike, your video production, story telling, and fabrication teaching is always top notch quality. I don't think anyone will complain about a verity of different content. I'm mainly here for the builds, but ill gladly watch it all. Whatever helps you pay for parts/cars. I get it... Lastly, I Really appreciate the quality audio on all of your videos. I know you mentioned this early on in the channel, but I've really started to notice the difference from others. The extra effort here is appreciated, since I'll usually rewatch videos on my TV. Thank you, sir

[@JeepLJ3]

I find it refreshing to see where you get your inspiration, keep up the great work!

[@jasonplancaster]

Seeing this close up was a real treat. Don’t make the channel all about other cars, but this totally resonated with me and I’m game for more like it on occasion!

[@Ed-wu9jg]

I'm definitely gonna say yes to more like this on occasion. You're good with showing the process of building a car, but also a great presenter in general. Plus your particular interests in cars mirror my own which is a huge plus for me watching. Keep up the great work mate

[@mchristr]

I was working at a Mercedes-Benz only shop when the 190E debuted. We thought it was cheap and cheesy (it got better when the later 2.6 version arrived). But the game-changer was the 16 valve with that rev-happy engine, bigger brakes, amazing seats, and firmer suspension. Our shop foreman test drive one and said you could roll over a coin and tell what year it was. We were all disappointed when the Evolution didn't come stateside.

[@TheCodedDrifter]

Such a beautiful car! Loved the episode. You should definitely do more!

[@discomansJA]

Absolutely loved the video on the Mercedes Benz 190 Evo2! It's always fascinating to hear and see the history behind such special cars. I'd definitely enjoy more content like this. However, the real gem for me is peeking into the projects in the workshop. Every Friday evening, I settle down and draw a massive amount of inspiration from your content for my next projects. Keep up the fantastic work - it's fuel for creativity!

[@bryan_turner]

I love the 190 evo cars and old Mercedes in general. I'd definitely love to see some of this type of content sprinkled into your content. You are such a great story teller, so it would be great to see you highlight some interesting cars and automotive stories.

[@danmeifert2469]

The C36 AMG was another iconic 90s MBZ. Love E30s.

[@christopherbellisario9195]

I've always loved these 190E and all the variants...look fantastic still, timeless and executed perfectly...I'd take one over any new Benz today

[@CVOdeslCUP]

I have seen one in person during a cars and coffee and just like you was in awe that this was a road going production car. Truly a remarkable and special car. Please more videos like these, love seeing these cars in detail

[@harrypapageorge9735]

Loved this one mate. Your content and how you bring it to us is so professional and detailed. Many thanks and keep it up. 😉👌🏼🇦🇺🏁

[@chrisc6452]

One of my favorite cars ever. Really enjoyed this and would welcome more like this. Great Job

[@christianwc9458]

4:45 breathtaking red color and appearance. Top notch video. I've got no DTM powertrain, still enjoy these videos. W201's may be old, but lack no soul. At all. ❤

[@metalmaniac-mu9kt]

Die hard old school BMW fan here but this is probably one of the coolest Mercedes ever built. Older European cars just have a certain feel to them and I'm sure the 190 is no exception.

[@dbyoutube21]

Thanks for taking us with you.

[@andreww8941]

Absolutely dig the content/machine Mike!!!! Especially the backstory and in depth racing history you provided while showcasing this classic gem! Much appreciated sir and definitely look forward to more episodes like this in the future. Keep up the great work bro.

[@petewitt2867]

I really enjoyed the break and the broader content. Thanks

[@shaunh227]

Amazing content as ever - format is great and the 190e is legendary. You’ve got me totalling up internet parts for a tribute build 😂

[@shafferjoe1962]

Awesome car. This is your passion and if your willing to take us along. Then please keep taking us along. Be blessed brother

[@garrettfruzynski]

More of this please, Mike! Love the format and history lessons. Reminds me of Jason Cammisa’s work a bit and I think we all could use more content like this in the YT car world. It’s not all “build build build”, we need to get out and stay inspired, too!

[@griffins750]

Glad to see I'm not the only Jason Cammisa fan here, love his work for Hagerty and his podcast with Derek is fantastic as well.

[@MyILoveMinecraft]

Driving the 190e in assetto corsa caused me to buy a W201 as my daily 5 years ago. Havent regreted it. The reliabilty, driveabilty and quality are top notch. Over my ownership i spend only 6k€ on it, that includes buying the car, maintance, repairs and insurance/tax Even a normal ass W201 is an amazing car already

[@johnkropp3793]

Yes, yes. We want to nerd out with you on special and rare cars!! Would love to see similar future videos... let's go ❤

[@Lavasioth]

amazing video! Can't wait to see that new project though 👀

[@ZHF0rd]

Hearing you talk about the things that you are passionate about is what keeps us (at least me) coming back. Whether that’s a 190e or four different revisions of Ferrari control arms. Keep sharing what you want to share… this seems like a great way to diversify that channel and bring in a wider variety of viewers.

[@littlemissgracing6515]

These are the cars of my youth Mike. I would love to see them through your lens. I love your passion for these cars. Keep them coming 👍

[@kwcars4355]

Love this format interspersed with your intense restoration work and builds. Car you tube nirvana!

[@krabbenschubser]

Mike, super well made and informative piece. I learned something today. Thx!

[@jdwxly]

Definitely more of this! It's a great way to take a break from fab work and dive into auto history.

[@accord_aero_r]

Would love to see more content like this outside the shop projects!

[@tanco2158]

Thank you for sharing your passion for all things automotive with us Mike...🤩✨ More please...😁👍

[@Elmospiece]

I’m a BMW guy, have and have had many older models, but I’d agree the 190E Evo 2 is way cooler.

[@thomasgodfrey758]

It’s so rare…

[@jamestayler6850]

This is the golden era, a lorry driver, not paying attention ploughed into us. Sent us forward into two cars ahead on impact and my brother and I, barely teens were unscathed. We owe our lives/lack of injury to the engineering prowess of the time. Means a lot you’re reporting out of you wheelhouse preference 😊

[@srw2010]

As much as I love your take on shop videos, I am partial to the "history lesson" type format. Love this car and your vid did it justice! Would definitely like to see more content like this from you

[@lukearnold23]

Please do more reviews like this! Very well done

[@lightness1701]

I would love to see you do other in depth discussions of other vehicles like this, especially because you can bring your accrued fabrication and vehicle design expertise to the table.

[@RuudHaa]

My parents had a lowered 190 with some mechanical issue making it shoot flames every so often. As a 7 year old I absolutely loved that car!

[@ericmeyer6155]

Love this format, Mike!

[@marcodhaene]

I remember, as a kid, I had a huge poster on my wall of a 190E. The spectacular looks and its full name on the full width of the 1.5 meter wide poster: Mercedes 190E 2.5-16 Evolution II Next to BMW M3 that was quite the name. DTM stole my heart just like the 190E evo 2, M3, Alfa 155, Opel Calibra, etc. Nice video. Looking forward to more of this 👌🏻

[@TommyRibs]

Great video Mike, thanks for sharing this wonderful car.

[@allanbeckett1537]

Awesome video Mike please plenty more like this. Thanks

[@user-oe1mb9hu9i]

I got a drive in my friend's father's Mercedes 190 2.3 16V Cosworth Series 1 in it's day. I knew I was in a special car and was actually interested in the noise it would make going through a tunnel. My friend's had never asked his father or shown any interest in any of his cars, so from that day on the father always stopped by my house to take me for a ride without his son and told me not to tell him ! I never did. It was a great car.

[@jitao]

I liked the new format, good job!

[@tkyosh545]

Been a true grey market fanatic of BMW & MBZ since '80s. Followed DTM since 80s. In late '80s, friends and I owned and drove M3's, MBZ 16v's, 2002 tii, Bauer Cabriolets...back in the Hartge BMW days,...the most unique and rare for me was and is the MBZ 16v. More people knew about BMWs, not as many knew what was up with the 16v MBZ. DTM for Life!! Nuthin but love for both, just personal fav. Enjoy all! Incredible vid! Thank you.

[@leeh9420]

I loved getting a chance to see that - thanks!!

[@pjakich926]

Mike I think both you and I were born a few years too late… but I’m glad we share the same appreciation and love for 2 of the most legendary touring cars to ever be made

[@bullitt_eightyseven]

NEED MORE OF THIS CONTENT PLEASE!!!

[@jacksonianc]

Loved it, hearing about the history and the culture is great-definitely here for more

[@frederickthorne2496]

Love this era of race trim Euro sedans. I have 2 Volvo 1996 850R trimmed turbos, one sedan and one Estate. The look and stance from that time as well as the the attitude these cars have is exciting to me. Cheers for stepping out of the box for this video.

[@arefinlabib4630]

NEED MORE OF THESE!

[@gouldnj]

I commented on the FCP video just yesterday about the fact that I just saw an Evo II at a show in Scottsdale last month. They are stunning.

[@scottjones9670]

My parents had an '86 190E 2.3 16 when I was growing up that replaced my mom's E30. I still miss it today. Although I still remember my dad grumbling about trying to find parts for it when it needed maintence.

[@adnanlatif9007]

190E EVO 2 will live forever

[@barfmeister8509]

Enjoyed the video format, more please👍 Evo 1 also my favourite of the bunch 😎

[@ttt69420]

Aesthetically, I prefer the M3, but it has to be done in a specific STW kind of style. Same with the E36. The E30 in general is easy to ruin, and many people do, IMO. By comparison the 190 evo 2 looks great out of the box, especially with the Lancia TH style wheels. There's no need to touch it.

[@thomasj.kappjr.929]

Awesome would love to see more episodes like this

[@Shiny_Dragonite]

Did not expect to wake up and find a video from you on one of my favorite cars. A 190E came up for sale 20 minutes away from me about a month ago, and I had to have several people stop me from selling everything I own to buy it. When I'm having a bad day, I boot up Gran Turismo 4 and run a bunch of laps on the Green Hell with one and I've forgotten whatever had me down by the end. Hopefully I'm in a better position to buy one the next time I see one for sale.

[@yosalut9790]

That format is really super cool 😁

[@DaraghsTube]

Always loved the Evo, nice change to go and see what else is out there that fits with the world of the E30, 90’s DTM and anything related. Keep it up.

[@redporschekilla]

Mike, your art of showcasing cars, your narration it’s just the salt and pepper on a fried egg… doesn’t go without. Well I grew up in Germany and have seen the DTM cars live, in fact, I saw Senna winning this inaugural 190 2.3 race…. Back in the days a ticket on the start and finish straight at the Nuerburgring GP Track cost 100 dautsch mark…. Well now you know I’m a dinosaur, but auto is my one true love! Thank you for providing outstanding automotive content, and thank you for forcing me out of my box when you announced…. i widebody a 308 and put a Honda engine in, priceless, saw you buying this beauty of a 308 and got to work. Episode 1! EPIC Mike!

[@NJGhost34]

Great video and very informative. ❤

[@cb3plus845]

Now that’s a beautiful machine! Absolutely stunning!

[@omacastro1231]

Love this episode. Well done

[@ericd7532]

I have been drooling over these for decades

[@mousethefoo1230]

Having just got into motorsports and cars I love this kind of look into the past. Seeing cars from past eras is so fucking cool.

[@towlie911]

Love the story behind the rear window, motorsport inspired loophole. It drops the weight from the roof as well, win win

[@christophercarrera7486]

I would totally crap myself if I saw that car pass by. Such an icon and soo bad ass. I absolutely love this format btw and would love to see more!

[@EricShell]

Man... that factory reverse rake on the example you were looking at is wild! So much wheel gap. Loved the EVO2 example on the OZs. Sick format, enjoyed this episode. Also... WHAT'S IN THE BOX!?

[@TheIntensiveCarUnit]

To quote Dave from Willomet Motor and Fab, "Your brand loyalty is holding you back." 190E Evo and Evo2 are iconic and amazing cars.

[@XiraArien]

Had a couple of 190E - one with the evo seats. Fantastic to drive and sit in. Missing it to this day 😢

[@fiftyrider6296]

Said hallelujah all along the video 😅 please more in this format ❤

[@tngdwn8350]

Such a beautiful car. I would love to turn back time and bring the spirit of DTM racing back on the racetracks and into the headquarters of big automotive manufacturers.

[@530ericthomas]

Love this! Evo II is one of my favorite and all time bucket list vehicles 🔥 ❤

[@TOOLRacingteam]

Loved the video! More please!

[@KarsNL]

Oooh that glimpse of the Alfa SZ 😍 But awesome episode Mike, loved it!

[@JonnieB.]

Mike I 100% agree. Cool video, I like that it is short and sweet. Good stuff

[@faniebasson4717]

thnx for the upload ,, a true icon

[@Skiridr22]

Great content keep it coming 👍🏾

[@Fastmover13]

Great production, wonderful VO

[@kraabol.mp4]

What a good ten minutes of the day!

[@epilzner1]

Just when I was thinking of selling my 190E, you go and make a video about how cool they are 😭

[@Don_Melon]

Would you ever buy a standard 190 and build it into something special? you have BMWs, you have the Audi... is there space for a Mercedes?

[@513MUGSY]

When I was about 14 my dad and I took his 911SC to a track weekend at mid-ohio race track. It was 1990. Lots of Porsche's, but only 2 E30 M3's and this lonely 190E EVO I, WITH THIS BIG HUGE WING ON THE BACK! With everyone running on track I would time cars and write them down for people throughout the day. The M3 and the EVO were running tenths apart all weekend. As a reward I got to ride some hot laps on Sunday afternoon, back to back in both cars. One of the best rides I have ever had. These two guys were racing each other around trying to out do each other. It was great! I will remember that until I go off into the wild blue yonder! Too bad that you could not at least drive down the street and back...

[@4goten]

Great episode! Always great content and perfect Camera work as always @aphamfilms

[@devonduplessis5778]

I love this type of content!