Mercedes-Benz · W146 · 1984-1988

History of the W146

The W146 190D represented Mercedes-Benz's entry into the compact luxury segment with proven diesel technology.

Development began in the early 1980s as Mercedes sought to modernize its smallest offering with turbodiesel efficiency.

Production commenced in 1984 with the 65 hp naturally aspirated engine before turbocharging arrived mid-cycle.

Manufacturing ended in 1988 as the W201 platform evolved and market demands shifted toward performance variants.

  • 1984Introduction
  • 1988Production ends