Ayrton Senna’s Former 1985 Mercedes-Benz 190E to Be Auctioned

A 1985 Mercedes-Benz 190 E 2.3-16 once owned by Formula 1 legend Ayrton Senna will go under the hammer at RM Sotheby’s London auction in November. The car holds significant historical value for motorsport followers, marking an important moment in the Brazilian driver’s early career. Senna took delivery of the sedan in October 1985, shortly after impressing at the 1984 Nürburgring Race of Champions, where he drove a similar 190 E to victory against established world champions. His example was finished in Smoke Silver Metallic with a black leather interior, remaining in factory specification to this day.

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Senna collected the car directly from Mercedes-Benz in Germany, joined by fellow Brazilian racer Mauricio Gugelmin. The pair drove it across Europe to Senna’s residence in Esher, Surrey, where it was registered in the UK with all duties cleared. Senna used the vehicle regularly as his daily driver, covering around 41,000km over nearly two years before parting with it in 1987. That same year he signed with McLaren, moved to Monaco, and began the next stage of his Formula 1 journey.

1985 Mercedes-Benz 190 E: Technical Details

The 190 E 2.3-16 represented a high-performance version of the Mercedes W201. It carried a 2.3-litre four-cylinder engine tuned for greater output, supported by a limited-slip differential and suspension upgrades aimed at sharper handling. Competing directly with the BMW M3, the car was well regarded among enthusiasts of the era. The example offered at auction retains its original specification and comes with service documentation from the period of Senna’s ownership.

After Senna sold it, the car was exported to Australia, where its air-conditioning system was disconnected to meet import rules. Unlike many collectors’ cars, it continued to be used on the road, with the odometer now showing more than 154,000 miles (2,47,838km).

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With direct ties to Ayrton Senna, its racing heritage, and a documented history, this Mercedes-Benz 190 E 2.3-16 is regarded as a rare opportunity for collectors. Its upcoming appearance at RM Sotheby’s London auction will appeal to Formula 1 fans and classic car buyers alike.

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