MERCEDES-BENZ took on the burgeoning BMW E30 3 Series with its stylish W201 190E in 1984. Just like all its other sedans only smaller, the rear-wheel drive W201 pioneered the sophisticated, multi-link rear suspension set-up, which allowed for more precise handling and ride qualities. Power came on leisurely courtesy of an 85kW 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine married to a four-speed automatic transmission. 1986 saw the release of its 89kW unleaded fuel 190E 2.0-litre replacement, as well as the short-lived 190D, fitted with a 66kW 2.5-litre five-cylinder diesel engine. A very expensive 190E 2.6 debuted in June ’87, fitted with a 121kW 2.6-litre straight six-cylinder engine and anti-lock brakes. September ’90 saw two new four-cylinder engines replace the old 2.0-litre unit – the 82kW 1.8-litre 190E 1.8 (renamed and de-contented as the 180E from October ’91 featured here), and the 97kW 2.3-litre six-cylinder 190E 2.3 – but both were usurped in late ’92 by the return of the 89kW 190E 2.0-litre model. The W201 180E and 190E series lasted until the W202 C-class arrived in March ’94...