A very special 1990 Mercedes-Benz that’s hardly been driven will be offered for sale at Salon Privé, which runs from September 1 to 3 at Blenheim Palace in the UK. 

The 1990 Mercedes-Benz 190 E 2.5-16 Evolution II, with just 885 miles on the clock, will go under the hammer as part of The Salon Privé Sale on September 3, conducted by Silverstone Auctions.

This particular car, number 452 of 502 cars made by Mercedes-Benz, was supplied new to the UK by Lancaster Mercedes-Benz in 1990, one of only four cars that were officially sold new in the UK. Testament to its originality and low mileage, the dealer sticker still resides on the back window in pristine condition.

The car was purchased by a collector and stored at the supplying main dealer for approximately 10 years, covering virtually no road miles in this time. The bodywork is finished in black and the paint retains an excellent even shine across all panels. The panel fit is superb and the condition of the exterior is a joy to behold.

The same goes for the black interior that seems to have little or no wear to either the leather seats, dash, door cards or headlining. The engine bay is totally original and correct, with components that have been incredibly well preserved over the last 26 years. It now heads to auction at one of Silverstone Auctions’ most high profile auctions of the year, estimated at £180,000-220,000 ($233,000-285,000).

Silverstone Auctions Managing Director Nick Whale said: “Any fan of the legendary 'Group A' Touring Car era needs to see this car to truly appreciate both its originality and splendid collector status. Without question, one of the lowest mileage examples one could ever find on the market today. We welcome any pre-sale inspections on this unique vehicle and are certain you’ll agree that this incredible homologation special would be a welcome contender at any Concours event around the world.”

Twenty-five years ago, the 190 E 2.5-16 Evolution II was unveiled at the Geneva International Motor Show an legend has it that the limited run of 502 cars were sold pre-launch. 

The bitter rivalry between BMW and Mercedes-Benz in saloon car racing at the time throughout Europe helped hone the greatest touring cars of the era. 

The Evo II had to win against one of the best touring cars of all time, the E30 M3. The touring car, developed for Group A racing using this sports saloon as a basis, went on to acquire legendary status. Mercedes-Benz took the first three places in the DTM championship in the 1992 season with this vehicle, which was referred to as the Evo II.

Nick adds: "The fact that the Evo II was a product of the ultra-conservative world of early nineties Mercedes-Benz is even more incredible. Its ostentatious body kit and impressive performance figures make it a showpiece of any serious classic car collection.”

Now in its 11th year, Salon Privé is firmly established as the UK’s most prestigious luxury supercar show and concours d’elégance. 

The three-day event incorporates the Chubb Insurance Concours d’Élégance, Boodles Ladies’ Day and The Salon Privé Supercar Show, also showcasing The Pirelli Prestige & Performance Competition, the EFG Art and Memorabilia Fair and The Salon Privé Sale. 

Salon Privé takes pride and place amongst the leading automotive shows of the world, including the US’s Pebble Beach and Italy’s Villa d’Este.