Educate me - 2.3 v 2.5-16 Cosworth
Discussion
Having yearning for something interesting, and can't go back to E30 M3 as silly money nowadays. Been looking at the Mercedes as an alternative.
What am I missing, 2.3 or 2.5 - is there any difference ?
Any clues as to these Cosworth engined Mercs, why one is better or worse than others. A starting point appreciated.
Cheers. NC
What am I missing, 2.3 or 2.5 - is there any difference ?
Any clues as to these Cosworth engined Mercs, why one is better or worse than others. A starting point appreciated.
Cheers. NC
There's not much difference between the two. Obviously, engine capacity is different, and power and torque outputs likewise. I think the 2.3 had 185bhp and the 2.5 had 204. I don't know the torque figures. It wouldn't surprise me if the 2.5 had a longer rear axle. Only the cylinder head is Cosworth. Cylinder heads of 2.3 cars were manufactured by Cosworth; those of 2.5 cars were made in house by Daimler-Benz. But so what. Other than that, I don't think there's anything much to separate them. Buy the one that is in best condition!
They are wonderful cars, but it's all going to be down to condition.
The body cladding can hide rust, and I've seen some rally rotten 190's in the recent past.
The engines are robust, but they're all approaching 30 years old, so will need careful examination before you buy.
Similarly, the self levelling rear suspension may need some fettling, and, unless the car has had a suspension refresh in the last 30,000 miles or so, it will wallow about.
Check out the steering whilst your underneath too. Its generally ok, but isn't a rack and pinion set up, so may need adjustment and a new steering damper.
Interiors wear well, unless there has been water ingress.
Id be looking at one of the cars at around 12k plus from a reputable dealer if I wanted one. Those on sale for half that, could be a real money pit.
The body cladding can hide rust, and I've seen some rally rotten 190's in the recent past.
The engines are robust, but they're all approaching 30 years old, so will need careful examination before you buy.
Similarly, the self levelling rear suspension may need some fettling, and, unless the car has had a suspension refresh in the last 30,000 miles or so, it will wallow about.
Check out the steering whilst your underneath too. Its generally ok, but isn't a rack and pinion set up, so may need adjustment and a new steering damper.
Interiors wear well, unless there has been water ingress.
Id be looking at one of the cars at around 12k plus from a reputable dealer if I wanted one. Those on sale for half that, could be a real money pit.
Great, thanks for your thoughts, yes, the 12k price is around where I'm thinking. Seem to get 80-100k miles re-commissioned ones around that level & a bit more. Had a 1990 M3 7-8 years ago, now just silly money, but also, 190 just looks and reads well, so could be a marvellous you for light but regular use.
Gassing Station | Mercedes | Top of Page | What's New | My Stuff