Mercedes-Benz 2.3 Azzurro Avantgarde Sportline

In 1982, at the Paris Motor Show, Mercedes-Benz unveiled Bruno Sacco's masterpiece, the W201 model, which brought the luxury associated with Mercedes to the middle class. This model had been in development since 1974, with a staggering 2.3 billion Deutsche Marks invested in its research and development, far surpassing the budget of competitors. The car was designed with rigorous safety principles and featured technical innovations such as programmed crumple zones and a reinforced passenger cell that could be equipped with up to two airbags. For the suspension, 40 different versions were developed to find the perfect solution, a design still copied and used by all manufacturers to this day. The engine, transmission, and indeed the entire car were built to be indestructible, born under the ethos of "over-engineering." The 190 aimed to attract younger buyers and successfully did so, offering a particularly sporty driving experience thanks to its light body and excellent road handling. However, the model we have for sale is far from an ordinary edition. While nearly two million units of the 190 were produced, only 900 can claim to be part of the Avantgarde Azzurro special edition. This particular example is one of those rare few, recognizable by its distinctive and beautiful azure blue metallic paint. Members of this special edition were equipped with the largest available 2.3-liter, four-cylinder, eight-valve engine producing 136 horsepower. Additionally, this car features a five-speed manual transmission for maximum driving enjoyment. Beyond the unique exterior paint, the interior of the Azzurro models is also very special, featuring colorful stitching on every seat, which beautifully enhances the black leather interior with vibrant elements. Adding to its uniqueness, the car comes with sport seats both front and rear. True to the Avantgarde Azzurro edition, the equipment is exceptional, including four electric windows, heated seats, an openable sunroof, and a CD radio for added comfort. Among the highly valued 190 models, this special edition stands out even more with its significant potential for value appreciation, especially when in such outstanding condition.