The Mercedes-Benz 190 E 2.5-16 Evolution II, a homologation special from the early 1990s, is now a highly sought-after classic, fetching prices exceeding half a million dollars at auction. Recognizing its legendary status, HWA, a German motorsports and engineering firm with AMG roots, is crafting a modern restomod tribute: the HWA Evo. This meticulously re-engineered vehicle aims to capture the spirit of the original Mercedes 190 Evo while delivering contemporary performance and luxury, albeit at an even more exclusive price point, starting at $753,600.
First unveiled in 2023, the HWA Evo project takes a hand-picked, standard Mercedes-Benz 190 E chassis as its foundation. Production will be strictly limited to just 100 units, offering discerning collectors a rare opportunity to own a piece of automotive artistry that blends classic design with cutting-edge engineering.
Re-engineered Chassis and Advanced Dynamics
HWA’s approach to the Evo restomod is comprehensive. Beginning with a bare chassis, they reinforce the central structure and replace both front and rear sections with custom-designed subframes. This fundamental change allows for the direct chassis mounting of the new suspension system, dramatically increasing rigidity. HWA states that around 75% of the chassis components are newly engineered, resulting in a doubled torsional stiffness compared to the original 190 E. This robust foundation is crucial for modern handling and safety standards.
Drawing upon decades of motorsports expertise, particularly in DTM racing, HWA has completely redesigned the suspension. The system features unique wishbones, akin to those used in their race cars, alongside adjustable dampers from KW Suspension and anti-roll bars from H&R. This sophisticated setup promises exceptional handling and responsiveness, far beyond the capabilities of the original car.
Further enhancing the driving experience, HWA collaborated with Bosch to develop bespoke ESP and ABS systems, along with a dedicated ECU. This level of electronic integration is remarkable for such a limited production run, demonstrating HWA’s commitment to modern performance and safety.
Potent Powertrain and Performance
Under the hood, the HWA Evo departs from the original Cosworth inline-4 engine, opting for a potent twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6. By moving the front axle forward by 2.0 inches and employing a rear-mounted 6-speed manual transmission (transaxle), HWA engineers achieved optimal engine placement: low and far back in the engine bay. This front-mid-engine layout, coupled with the transaxle, results in a perfectly balanced 50:50 weight distribution.
Performance targets are ambitious, with approximately 500 horsepower expected from the V-6 engine and a target curb weight of under 3,000 pounds. This lightweight is achieved through extensive use of carbon fiber for the bodywork. For even greater braking performance, buyers can choose optional carbon-ceramic brake rotors from Brembo, in addition to the standard steel rotors.
Availability and Exclusivity
Deliveries of the HWA Evo are slated to commence in late 2025. The exclusivity of this restomod is underscored by the auction of the very first build slot in Germany in July, which fetched a staggering 1.3 million euros ($1.37 million) including fees and taxes.
HWA has partnered with Curated, a U.S.-based company specializing in the sale and restoration of classic cars from the 1970s to the early 2000s, to market the remaining build slots. The HWA Evo represents more than just a restomod; it’s a modern reinterpretation of a motorsport icon, blending nostalgia with state-of-the-art engineering for a select few.
