Reviving Legends: HWA Evo's Modern Spin on the Iconic 190 E 2.5-16 Evo II
In 1989, Mercedes-Benz captured the racing world's imagination with the creation of the 190 E 2.5-16 Evo, a homologation special for the German Touring Car Championship (DTM). This car was a fierce competitor in a series that also saw the rise of the legendary BMW M3. After noteworthy attempts, Mercedes-Benz returned to factory motor racing, paving the way for a successor—the Evo II. The Evo II version, which clinched the 1992 DTM Manufacturer's Championship, remains a collector's dream, fetching prices around $300,000 today.
Enter HWA, a company with deep roots in Mercedes-Benz's motorsport history. HWA, named after Hans-Werner Aufrecht—the 'A' in AMG—has modernized the Evo II, delivering a contemporary marvel dubbed the HWA Evo. Using a standard Mercedes 190 E chassis, HWA has crafted what can only be described as an Evo III endowed with modern engineering. This isn’t merely a restomod; it’s a comprehensive metamorphosis.
The heart of the HWA Evo is a far cry from the Cosworth-tuned, high-revving 2.5-liter four-cylinder of yesteryears. Instead, the car is powered by Mercedes' M276 twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6, synonymous with the AMG E 43. Each engine is meticulously disassembled, balanced, and fitted with a dry-sump lubrication system, allowing it to sit lower in the chassis. Coupled with an HWA-tuned ECU, this powerhouse belts out 444 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque, with an optional Affalterbach Package pushing those figures to 493 hp. Such power enables the car to excel with a six-speed manual transaxle transmission boasting shorter gearing for rapid acceleration, achieving a top speed of 168 mph in standard trim and 189 mph with the Affalterbach upgrade.
Motor Trend’s inquiry into HWA's choice of a six-cylinder engine revealed practical considerations. While a V8 was deemed too cumbersome, the prospect of a four-cylinder was not captivating enough for customers looking for something 'special'. The six-cylinder struck a balance between performance and differentiation, aligning with HWA’s goal of creating a truly unique Evo III.
Reinforcement and innovation aren’t limited to the engine alone. The chassis undergoes extensive modifications, being stripped and fortified with aluminum and high-strength steel for enhanced rigidity and safety. The axles are repositioned to optimize weight distribution, achieving a 50:50 balance. HWA’s attention to detail extends to utilizing Evo II-spec glass and new carbon-fiber body panels, making the car nine inches wider than its predecessor.
This engineering marvel features KW suspension with manual shock adjustments in the standard model and electronic controls in the Affalterbach version. Massive six-piston brakes up front and four-piston brakes in the rear ensure robust stopping power, paired with appropriately sized wheels and tires for grip and handling.
Inside, the retro exterior hides a futuristic cabin where digital gauges simulate the original displays while modern Recaro seats offer unparalleled support. One unit has been built so far, undergoing rigorous testing before full-scale production commences. With a planned production cap of 100 units, priced at €714,000 ($765,000) each, 75 have already been sold, underscoring the immense demand for this modern classic. The rumor mill suggests that HWA's next project could be a contemporary take on the legendary AMG Hammer.