1985–1988 Mercedes 190 E 2.3-16 (Cat) Specs & Performance

The Mercedes 190 E 2.3-16 (Cat) brought a sportier edge to the compact W201 sedan, combining understated Mercedes-Benz styling with a high-revving four-cylinder engine and rear-wheel-drive layout. Developed as the performance-focused member of the 190 range, the 2.3-16 featured DOHC technology and a four-valve-per-cylinder design, giving the compact sedan a distinctly sporting character. Its four-door body and five-seat cabin also retained the everyday usability that made the W201 such an important Mercedes-Benz model.

The 1985–1988 Mercedes 190 E 2.3-16 (Cat) uses a naturally aspirated 2.3-liter inline-four producing 168 hp and 162 lb-ft of torque. A five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission sends power to the rear wheels, with 0–60 mph taking 8.2 seconds and 0–62 mph taking 8.5 seconds. Top speed reaches 137 mph, combining classic rear-wheel-drive balance with the distinctive performance character of the 190 E 2.3-16.