I was curious as to why...a quick search didn't turn up much..figured someone had some insight...

__________________
Cruise Control not working? Send me PM or email (jamesdean59@gmail.com). I might be able to help out.
Check here for compatibility, diagnostics, and availability!

82 300SD 145k
82 300SD 265k
87 420SEL 230k
89 420SEL 210k
89 560SEL 118k
90 300SE 262k RIP 5/25/2010
90 560SEL 154k
91 300D 2.5 Turbo. 241k
93 190E 3.0 235k
93 300E 195k

Ask MB marketing.

Maybe their sticker prices will give a clue. Perhaps it was pricier than a 2.6 gasser.

MBUSA did not think that it was a good market idea. 1987 only.
Sold elsewhere for 5-6 years!

Was one of the best 190's ever made!

__________________
MERCEDES Benz Master Guild Technician (6 TIMES)
ASE Master Technician
Mercedes Benz Star Technician (2 times)
42 years foreign automotive repair
27 Years M.B. Shop foreman (dealer)
MB technical information Specialist (15 years)
190E 2.3 16V ITS SCCA race car (sold)
1986 190E 2.3 16V 2.5 (sold)
mbdoc-pe@hotmail.com

Probably the same reason the 300TD with the 603 was only in 1987. I'm sure MBUSA and the guvment had something to do with regulating diesels and the popularity of them.

__________________
2000 E320 4Matic Wagon
1994 Chevrolet 2500 6.5 Suburban
1979 300TD

Past Mercedes
1998 E430
1984 300SD
1980 300SD

Yeah ,after many yrs Mercedes in the U.S. had produced a strong marketable diesel that out performed most diesel engines and gas designs for longevity and efficiency .Now a new and improved version for another decade or 2, I can see politics getting involved .Regulations is a politicians wond of power.If you turn back a few yrs further and look at how American car makers were beginning the jump to overseas manufacturing another problem arises .It plagues the industry now and that is this,why pick a US manufactured car when styling and efficiency are by far better in the foriegn arena.Hyunda has a good idea on were the U.S. public wants to spend their money and thats on good mpgs and good looks while doing it.