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Callaway's One-Off Turbo Mercedes 190E Heads to Auction
A unique 1984 Mercedes-Benz 190E prototype built by American tuner Callaway, with contributions from BBS, Bilstein and Recaro, is up for auction without reserve after a claimed $100,000 restoration.
By Charlotte Redford · 4 min read
A one-off turbocharged Mercedes-Benz 190E prototype developed by the American tuning company Callaway in the 1980s is heading to auction without reserve, offering collectors a rare piece of automotive history that bridges two very different performance cultures.
The car, a 1984 model, is listed on Bring a Trailer as part of the Tons of Gas Auto Collection in Charlotte, North Carolina. It represents a collaboration between Callaway and several leading names in aftermarket performance, including BBS, Bilstein and Recaro, each of which contributed to transforming the relatively humble 190E into something considerably more interesting.
Under the bonnet sits a turbocharged 2.3-litre inline-four engine developed as a prototype by Callaway. Power is sent to the rear wheels through a five-speed manual transmission, although the listing does not specify output figures for horsepower or torque. The powertrain has undergone substantial changes since new. During a restoration in 2022, the turbocharger was rebuilt with Garrett ball-bearing components, while a custom exhaust manifold and intercooler system were fabricated. The engine also received a replacement camshaft, valve springs and a MicroSquirt standalone ECU. A SPEC performance clutch helps manage the power, and a custom exhaust system terminates in a Sebring rear muffler.
Inside, the Recaro seats match the Palomino interior, and the MOMO steering wheel features a boost gauge where the horn would usually be. The original Becker radio remains but is inoperable, while the automatic climate control, windows and cruise control are all said to work. There is some noticeable wear on certain switchgear.
According to the seller, approximately $100,000 has been spent restoring the car in recent years. That work included extensive engine refurbishment, suspension repairs, interior restoration and various cosmetic improvements. The odometer currently shows around 136,000 miles (218,871 km), although the seller claims to have added only about 500 miles (805 km) during current ownership. The car comes with service records, a Callaway Certificate of Authenticity and a November 1985 issue of Road & Track magazine.
Callaway is best known for turning Corvettes into high-performance machines, but the company has occasionally applied its expertise to unexpected vehicles. This 190E prototype stands out not only for the Callaway connection but also for the involvement of BBS, Bilstein and Recaro, making it a comprehensive aftermarket collaboration from the era.
Despite its significance and the claimed restoration costs, the auction has attracted a top bid of just $13,500 so far. The sale is being handled without reserve, meaning the car will go to the highest bidder regardless of price. For enthusiasts of 1980s performance saloons and tuning history, the 190E represents a rare opportunity to acquire a unique prototype with documented provenance and period touches.
The auction is live on Bring a Trailer, with the Tons of Gas Auto Collection offering the vehicle. As bidding continues, it remains to be seen whether the car's unusual story and extensive refurbishment will drive the final price beyond its current modest level.
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