Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan (a pioneering model for Mercedes-Benz in this segment)
Key Competitors:
BMW E30 3 Series, Audi 80/90, Volvo 240, Saab 900
Design Philosophy:
Engineered for durability, safety, and a balanced driving experience, often referred to as the 'Baby Benz'.
Impact:
Successfully broadened Mercedes-Benz's appeal to a younger demographic and established a new entry-level luxury sedan market.
Powertrain:
Engine (gasoline & diesel), fuel system, ignition, cooling, exhaust, clutch, manual transmission, automatic transmission
Chassis:
Suspension (front & rear), steering system, braking system (hydraulic, ABS), wheels, tires
Electrical:
12V DC electrical system, battery, charging system (alternator), starter, lighting, instrumentation, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, electronic control units (ECUs), comfort systems
Body:
Body shell, exterior trim, doors, windows, sunroof, interior trim, seats, HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning)
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, fluid checks and replacements, filter replacements, tune-ups
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, component testing, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) if applicable to later models/ECUs
Repair:
Component removal and installation, system repairs, overhaul procedures, adjustment specifications
Technical Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, tolerances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications, component data
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, detailed electrical troubleshooting, and body repair.
Digital Quality:
High-resolution scans, searchable text (OCR), layered diagrams (if available)
Paper Type:
Durable, high-quality paper stock suitable for workshop environments
Binding:
Professional binding (e.g., spiral-bound, perfect-bound) for ease of use
Engine Codes:
M102 (2.0L, 2.3L gasoline), OM601 (2.0L diesel), OM602 (2.5L diesel)
Horsepower Range:
70 hp (2.0D) to 136 hp (2.3-16) depending on engine variant
Torque Range:
96 lb-ft (2.0D) to 180 lb-ft (2.3-16) depending on engine variant
Gasoline Injection:
Bosch K-Jetronic (CIS) mechanical fuel injection (early models), Bosch KE-Jetronic (CIS-E) electronic fuel injection (later models)
Diesel Injection:
Indirect Injection (IDI) with Bosch inline injection pumps
Coolant Type:
MB 325.0 Specification (typically a 50/50 mix of Mercedes-Benz approved antifreeze and distilled water)
Spark Plugs:
NGK BKR5EK (for many 2.3L models, consult manual for exact fitment)
Oil Filter Part Numbers:
Mann-Filter W914/2, Mahle OX104, Bosch 0451103207 (verify for specific engine)
Transmission Type Gasoline:
4-speed or 5-speed manual transmission
Transmission Type Diesel:
5-speed manual transmission (common)
Automatic Transmission:
4-speed automatic transmission (e.g., 722.4 / 4G-TRONIC)
Automatic Features:
Hydraulic torque converter, sport/economy modes on some variants
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
MB 236.1 Specification (e.g., Shell ATF Dexron II, Valvoline ATF Dexron II)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90, consult manual for specific viscosity)
Length:
Approx. 4350-4390 mm (171.3-172.8 in)
Width:
Approx. 1690-1700 mm (66.5-66.9 in)
Height:
Approx. 1370-1380 mm (53.9-54.3 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2665 mm (104.9 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1200-1400 kg (2645-3086 lbs) depending on engine and options
Gross Vehicle Weight:
Varies by model, consult specific vehicle data
Crash Test History:
Early models were precursors to modern safety standards; later models improved with more advanced features. No standardized NCAP ratings from that era, but known for robust body structure.
ABS:
Optional on many models, standard on later high-performance variants (e.g., 190E 2.3-16)
Airbags:
Driver's airbag became optional in later years of production, not standard initially.
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts
Body Construction:
Reinforced safety cell, crumple zones
Audio System:
Factory fitted analog radios with cassette players, often with power antennas.
Cruise Control:
Optional on many models
Air Conditioning:
Optional manual or automatic climate control systems
Factory Phone:
Rarely factory fitted, but some later models could accommodate early car phones.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first (depending on oil quality and driving conditions).
Major Service Intervals:
e.g., 60,000 km (40,000 miles) for spark plug replacement, 80,000 km (50,000 miles) for transmission fluid change (automatic).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 5-7 liters (4.7-7.4 US quarts) for most gasoline engines, consult manual for exact capacity and grade.
Engine Oil Grade:
MB 229.1 Specification (e.g., 10W-40, 15W-40 synthetic or semi-synthetic)
Power Steering Fluid:
MB 236.3 Specification (e.g., ATF Dexron II)
Common Problems:
Coolant leaks (hose deterioration, head gasket), fuel distributor issues (K-Jetronic), seized climate control flaps, worn suspension bushings, ABS sensor failures, rust (wheel arches, sills).
Diesel Specific Issues:
Glow plug failures, injector pump seals, injector issues.
Mercedes Benz Legacy:
Built on Mercedes-Benz's reputation for engineering excellence, durability, and build quality.
Key Variants:
190, 190E, 190D, 190E 2.3, 190E 2.3-16, 190E 2.5-16, 190E 2.6
Performance Models:
Cosworth-developed 2.3-16 and 2.5-16 Evolution models were iconic homologation specials for DTM racing.
Manufacturing Locations:
Bremen, Germany
Total Units Produced:
Approximately 1.8 million
