1982 Mercedes-Benz 190-190 E w201 compact-class saloons

The public and the press were looking towards December 8, 1982 with great expectations, when the compact-class saloons Type 190 and 190 E were presented. These models did not replace previous types, but completed the traditional Mercedes-Benz passenger car program by a third main line. The new range of models was characterised by more compact measures, reduced weight and increased economy without making any compromises as to handling performance, safety and reliability. Originally, series 201 only comprised the 190 and 190 E models, which had been equipped with 4-cylinder engines. Both aggregates belonged to the engine family M 102 and were based on the unit that had been used for two and a half years in Type 200. Type 190 had a carburettor engine which by reducing the inlet and oulet passages as well as by using a modified camshaft and smaller valves had been throttled from 109 hp to 90 hp. The 190 E was, however, powered by a newly developed variant with Bosch KE-Jetronic. It mobilised 122 hp and