A one-off 1984 Mercedes-Benz 190E prototype developed by Callaway is heading to auction without reserve, bringing together turbocharging work from the American tuning company with components from BBS, Bilstein, and Recaro.

The car is listed on Bring a Trailer as part of the Tons of Gas Auto Collection in Charlotte, North Carolina. While Callaway is widely associated with modified Corvettes, this Mercedes represents a less familiar project based on the compact 190E.

Prototype turbocharged powertrain

Power comes from a Callaway-developed turbocharged 2.3-liter inline-four connected to the rear wheels through a five-speed manual transmission. The listing does not provide horsepower or torque figures, and the engine has been extensively reworked since the car was new.

Work carried out during a 2022 restoration included rebuilding the turbocharger with Garrett ball-bearing components, fabricating a custom exhaust manifold and intercooler system, and installing a replacement camshaft, valve springs, and MicroSquirt standalone ECU. A SPEC performance clutch manages the power, while a custom exhaust system exits through a Sebring rear muffler.

Recaro interior and period performance hardware

The Palomino cabin includes Recaro seats and a MOMO steering wheel fitted with a boost gauge in the usual horn position. The original Becker radio remains installed but does not work. The automatic climate control, power windows, and cruise control are operational, although some of the switchgear shows visible wear.

The restoration also included suspension repairs, interior work, and cosmetic improvements. The seller says approximately $100,000 has been spent on the car in recent years.

Documentation and auction details

The odometer displays approximately 136,000 miles, or 218,871 kilometers. The seller reports driving the car for only about 500 miles, equivalent to 805 kilometers, during current ownership.

Included with the Mercedes are service records, a Callaway Certificate of Authenticity, and a November 1985 issue of Road & Track. At the time of writing, bidding had reached $13,500, despite the car’s unusual history and extensive restoration work.