Unveiling the HWA Evo: The Legendary Restomod You Didn't Know You Needed
The automotive world is abuzz with excitement after HWA, the renowned German company founded by restomod-review">AMG creator Hans Werner Aufrecht, revealed details about its latest project: a restomod based on the iconic Mercedes 190E 2.5-16 Evo2. Set to hit the roads in limited quantities from 2025, the HWA Evo promises to breathe new life into a classic while embracing modern technology and performance enhancements.
The HWA Evo will be produced in a remarkably limited run of just 100 units, making it a collector’s dream for enthusiasts and fans of the classic Mercedes lineup. With a focus on quality, performance, and aesthetics, HWA is committed to delivering a vehicle that in its structure retains the spirit of the vintage model while integrating cutting-edge advancements.
The Building Process: Revamping the Classic
The transformation process begins with the diligent disassembly of a Mercedes 190E W201. HWA meticulously checks, cleans, and reinforces the original steel body, retaining approximately 25% of the original structure, particularly the central areas and pillars. This VIP treatment ensures that the essence of the classic model is preserved even as significant modifications are undertaken.
New components will include a robust tubular steel structure that acts as a roll cage, alongside a lightweight carbon fiber roof aimed at lowering the center of gravity. The front structure is a blend of innovation, making use of aluminum and high-alloy steel that facilitates both strength and weight efficiency. Additionally, an entirely new rear module will provide enhanced crash protection without sacrificing the integrity of the renowned 190E style.
Once these structures are affixed and the body is completed, a cathodic dip paint process will give the HWA Evo an impressive finish, ensuring durability and aesthetics will last throughout its lifespan.
Revitalized Performance: Engineering Marvels Under the Hood
At the heart of the HWA Evo lies a modified twin-turbo V6 engine reputed to squirt out an exhilarating 450 PS alongside a considerable 550 Nm of torque. This engine is likely a 3.0-liter model from the illustrious Mercedes lineup, known for its application in high-performance vehicles through the early 2010s.
Teamed with a six-speed manual gearbox, the HWA Evo stands poised to deliver a thrilling driving experience, explicitly capped at a top speed of 270 km/h. Automotive connoisseurs can even take advantage of the optional Affalterbach performance package, designed to boost the output to a jaw-dropping 500 PS and increase the top speed to 300 km/h. This level of power, combined with strategic weight management—now weighing in at a mere 1,360 kg—places the HWA Evo into a unique performance bracket.
Design Elements: A Nod to Nostalgia with Modern Convenience
One of the most exciting aspects of the HWA Evo is its combination of retro flair and contemporary luxury. While the original 190E primarily came in a sophisticated blue-black metallic finish, prospective owners of the HWA Evo will enjoy an expansive selection of colors and finishes that reflect modern trends.
Inside, the HWA Evo will feature a digital instrument cluster designed to echo the vintage aesthetic of early 90s analog displays, allowing for a nostalgic drive with modern connectivity. Smart device integration promises seamless operation of premium sound systems and navigation functions, creating a connected experience reminiscent of times gone by without jeopardizing modern functionalities.
Pricing and Availability: Exclusivity at a Premium
Given its limited production run and extensive engineering modifications, the pricing reflects the exclusivity of the HWA Evo. The first unit, bearing chassis number 000, sold for a staggering 1.31 million euros at a Sotheby’s auction, showcasing the desirability of this restomod. For the remaining 99 units, the price stands at 714,000 euros plus VAT, with a 30% deposit required to reserve a vehicle. This assures collectors and enthusiasts that the HWA Evo is not just a car; it’s a piece of automotive history, ready to turn heads for decades to come.
As the anticipation builds ahead of 2025, gearheads around the globe are watching closely. The HWA Evo promises to merge nostalgia and modern engineering into a limited-edition package that few will ever get to experience, and for that, it's set to become a beloved icon in its own right.