HWA Revives a Legend: The HWA EVO Pays Homage to the Mercedes-Benz 190E EVO II

A Legend Reborn

In 1990, the Mercedes-Benz 190E EVO II wasn’t just a car—it was a statement. Born from the ruthless world of DTM (German Touring Car Championship) racing, this homologation special brought race-bred aggression to the streets. With its flared arches, towering rear wing, and a snarling 2.5-liter engine, it became an instant icon. Now, HWA—a name whispered in reverence among motorsport fans—is reviving that spirit with the EVO Concept Demonstrator, a modern reimagining that’s more than just nostalgia. It’s a declaration of what happens when passion meets precision.

More Than a Restomod—A Reinvention

At first glance, the HWA EVO might look like a lovingly restored classic. But look closer. Nearly every panel—save for the roof and C-pillars—has been reshaped, refined, and reengineered. Underneath that carbon-fiber skin lies a chassis and powertrain crafted by the same hands that have shaped championship-winning race cars. This isn’t just a tribute—it’s an evolution.

The HWA Legacy: From Shadows to Spotlight

HWA’s story is one of quiet brilliance. Founded in 1998 by Hans-Werner Aufrecht (yes, the "A" in AMG), the company has been the unseen force behind some of motorsport’s most fearsome machines—Mercedes-AMG’s GT racers, DTM titans, even Le Mans prototypes. Beyond Stuttgart, they’ve breathed life into engines for Pagani, De Tomaso, and Isotta Fraschini. But now, HWA is stepping into the light.

"We've always been the hidden champion," admits CEO Martin Marx. "But now, it’s time to build our own legend."

Engineering with a Soul

The EVO starts with a donor Mercedes-Benz 190E, stripped to its bones before being reborn with an aluminum and carbon-fiber skeleton. The wheelbase stretches 3.2 inches, sharpening weight distribution and stability. Power? A twin-turbo 3.0-liter V-6, pumping out 444 hp—or, if you opt for the "Affalterbach" package, a spine-tingling 493 hp. And yes, it comes with a six-speed manual transaxle, because some joys should never be automated.

Race DNA, Road Legal

Targeting a lean 3,100 lbs, the EVO promises to demolish the original’s 6.8-second 0-60 mph time. Top speed? 168 mph (or 189 mph for the Affalterbach edition). The suspension—KW shocks, adjustable manually or on the fly—ensures it dances on the edge, while 15-inch front and 14-inch rear brakes (yes, you read that right) ensure it stops as hard as it goes.

Design: Where Heritage Meets Tomorrow

Australian designer Edgar Chu (Nissan, AMG alum) walked a tightrope with the styling—honoring the EVO II’s raw aggression while refining its lines for the modern era. The car is 9 inches wider, with muscular fenders, a longer hood, and a rear wing that’s more sculpture than spoiler. Paint options? Think classic shades, reimagined—including a fresh twist on the original Schwarzblau.

Exclusive, Expensive, and Already Coveted

Only 100 will exist, each carrying a price tag of roughly $770,000 (before taxes). Yet, 75 are already spoken for. Production kicks off in 2026, with one car rolling out of HWA’s Affalterbach workshop each week. For those lucky few, it’s not just a car—it’s a piece of history, reborn.

HWA’s Future: No More Behind the Scenes

The EVO isn’t just a car—it’s HWA’s coming-out party. A signal that the masters of motorsport engineering are ready to carve their own name into the pantheon of greats.

"We want this car to be track-proof," says Gordian von Schöning, HWA’s chief technical officer. And if their past is any indication? It will be.

Because legends aren’t just remembered—they’re reborn.