Despite the fact that Mercedes has always been the first in the premium segment, in the field of compact cars they lagged behind the BMW company, which introduced its first compact model back in the 60s. Therefore, the first Mercedes compact car, introduced in 1982, was extremely important to the company. The new model, codenamed W201, had a multi-link rear suspension, later used in the E and C class models, front and rear stabilizers, airbags, ABS brakes and seat belt pretensioners. The car was extremely comfortable, modern, could be criticized unless for the small space inside. Because the Mercedes company with its smallest model wanted to take part in the rally, they asked the famous British engineering company Cosworth to build an engine for them. Why Cosworth at AMG? Although AMG has worked with Mercedes since 1967, AMG did not yet own Mercedes at the time, and Cosworth had extensive experience in developing sports engines - they had already developed the Ford Sierra Cosworth and also participated in Formula 1 racing. This is how the WAA project was born and the 2.3-16 V engine with 320 hp (239 kW) for the Group B rally. Meanwhile, an all-wheel-drive and extremely powerful turbocharged Audi Quattro car appeared in the rally arenas and started to win. Mercedes assessed the situation and wisely refused to participate in Group B, so he turned to the DTM Deutsche Tourenwagen Meisterschaft series where the ultimate-powered Mercedes fit perfectly. The Cosworth engine for the 190 model series had a displacement of 2.3 liters, a new DOHC head with 16 valves, and a maximum engine power of 185 hp (138 kW) at 6,200 rpm. and 236 Nm at 4500 rpm, and the red speed limit only started at 7000 rpm. The engine is very similar to the BMW M3 2.0 L in its data. Later, when the 2.5-liter version of the BMW M3 Sport Evolution came out, Mercedes also updated its engine with the release of the Evolution I and Evolution II versions. Evolution versions had a larger 2.5-16 V engine and an impressive aerodynamics package - wide wheel arches, a large rear spoiler, other bumpers, and a suspension that was also adjustable in the Evo II version. The aerodynamics were tested in a wind tunnel which showed that the air resistance was only 0.29, at the same time the clamping force was increased. The most powerful version of the Evolution II had 232 hp (173 kW) at even higher levels of 7,200 rpm. and 245 Nm at 5,000 rpm, and the red speed limit started at an incredible 7,700 rpm!