MERCEDES 190 E (1991)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 1,064 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
82%
Total Tests (2024)
1,064
Avg Mileage
124,586 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,867
Is the 1991 MERCEDES 190 E reliable?
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's close to the national average of 82%. It falls below the MERCEDES brand average of 87%.
At 33 years old, 82% of MERCEDES 190 Es from 1991 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 1,064 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 124,586 miles.
How does the 1991 MERCEDES 190 E compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 1991 MERCEDES 190 E has 124,586 miles on the clock, which is below the expected 244,200 miles for a 33-year-old car. This suggests lighter use than average, which generally means less wear on major components.
Best year to buy a MERCEDES 190 E?
The most reliable year is the 1994 model with a 87% MOT pass rate, while the 1990 model has the lowest at 78%. The 1991 sits between the two at 82%.
How much does a 1991 MERCEDES 190 E cost to run?
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
MERCEDES 190 E by Year
Checking a specific MERCEDES 190 E?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 1991 MERCEDES 190 E
The 1991 MERCEDES 190 E is a family car with a 1997cc petrol engine. 1,064 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. Among all cars from 1991, the average MOT pass rate is 78%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 124,586 miles at 33 years old, MERCEDES 190 E owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver.
1991 MERCEDES 190 E Fuel Costs
The 1997cc petrol engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 36 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,327 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 1991 MERCEDES 190 E?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,867 (£156/month), broken down as £1327 fuel, £135 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 82% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
MERCEDES 190 E Reliability Trend
The MERCEDES 190 E has maintained consistent MOT pass rates across model years, varying by only 2 percentage points.
Buying a Used 1991 MERCEDES 190 E
At 33 years old, the MERCEDES 190 E is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. If you're flexible on year, the 1994 model has the highest pass rate at 87%.
Alternatives to the 1991 MERCEDES 190 E
If reliability is your priority, there are 2 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (1991) 80% pass rate (-2%) from 5,191 tests
- BMW 3 SERIES (1990) 84% pass rate (+2%) from 3,316 tests
- FORD ESCORT (1990) 85% pass rate (+3%) from 2,672 tests
- MAZDA MX-5 (1991) 78% pass rate (-4%) from 1,798 tests