The automotive tuning world has a short memory. While Callaway built its reputation turning Corvettes into fire-breathing monsters, this 1984 Callaway Mercedes 190E prototype represents a forgotten chapter in the American tuner’s history. Now, after decades in relative obscurity, this one-off turbocharged sedan is heading to auction on Bring a Trailer—and it’s a masterclass in 1980s performance engineering.
The Forgotten Callaway Experiment
Here’s the business reality: Callaway saw an opportunity in the mid-1980s to prove its turbocharging expertise extended beyond Chevrolet’s sports car lineup. Therefore, this Mercedes 190E wasn’t just a one-off vanity project—it was a strategic proof-of-concept. The collaboration pulled in heavyweight partners: BBS supplied the wheels, BilsteinRecaro crafted the interior.
Under the hood sits a turbocharged 2.3-liter inline-four developed entirely by Callaway as a prototype. Importantly, the exact horsepower and torque figures remain undisclosed, though the 2022 restoration hints at serious engineering. The turbocharger was rebuilt with Garrett ball-bearing components, a custom exhaust manifold was fabricated, and an intercooler system was engineered from scratch.
| ⚙️Engine / Powertrain | 2.3L Turbocharged Inline-Four (Callaway Prototype) |
| 🐎Power Output | Undisclosed (est. 200+ HP) |
| ⚡Peak Torque | Undisclosed (est. 220+ lb-ft) |
| ⏱️0-60 mph (0-100 km/h) | 0-60 mph in ~7.5s (est.) |
| 🚀Top Speed | 130+ mph (est.) |
| 🔄Drivetrain / Gearbox | 5-Speed Manual / Rear-Wheel Drive |
| 💰Starting Price / Est. | $13,500+ (current bid, no reserve) |
The $100K Resurrection
In 2022, the Callaway Mercedes 190E underwent a comprehensive restoration that reportedly cost approximately $100,000. This wasn’t cosmetic window-dressing. The engine received a replacement camshaft, new valve springs, and a MicroSquirt standalone ECU for precise fuel mapping. A SPEC performance clutch manages the turbo’s output, while a custom exhaust terminates in a Sebring rear muffler.
Inside, the Recaro seats match the Palomino interior, and a MOMO steering wheel features a boost gauge where the horn button should be. Furthermore, the automatic climate control, windows, and cruise control all function—though some switchgear shows age. The odometer reads 136,000 miles, with only 500 miles added during current ownership.
Auction Reality Check
As of this writing, the top bid sits at $13,500 with no reserve. Consequently, this Callaway Mercedes 190E represents extraordinary value for a documented prototype with factory authentication and a November 1985 Road & Track issue included in the sale. The car comes with service records and a Callaway Certificate of Authenticity—provenance that matters in the collector market.
Will this forgotten turbo sedan find its audience? Absolutely. The 1980s tuning scene is experiencing a cultural resurgence, and one-off prototypes command premium prices. Expect final bids to climb significantly before the hammer falls.
Liam Campbell
Industry Intelligence & News Editor at Auto News Magazine. Tracking prototype spy shots, Nürburgring development mules, automaker corporate moves, and breaking global automotive scoops.
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