Is HWA's 500-HP Mercedes 190E Restomod Better Than AMG's New C63? Find Out Why It Might Be the Ultimate Sleeper
In the world of restomod-for-sale">high-performance cars, nostalgia meets innovation in the HWA Evo, a restomod that pays tribute to the iconic Mercedes 190E while packing the kind of punch that puts modern sports sedans to shame. HWA, the company named after Hans Werner Aufrecht, a co-founder of AMG, has pulled all the stops on this restomod project, creating a machine that enthusiasts will drool over. Not just a facelifted classic, this vehicle is essentially an all-new car, packed with state-of-the-art technology, performance parts, and a whopping price tag of around $760,000. Production is limited to just 100 units, making it as exclusive as it is exhilarating.
Under the hood, the HWA Evo boasts a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 engine, complete with a custom-developed dry-sump lubrication system and HWA's own in-house engine management system. This beast of an engine produces up to 493 horsepower and 405 lb-ft of torque when you opt for the Affalterbach package. Compared to the modern Mercedes-AMG C63 S E Performance with its four-cylinder hybrid setup, the HWA Evo's powerplant feels wonderfully old-school, yet far from outdated.
A Marvel of Engineering
The engineering marvel extends beyond the engine. The chassis is reinforced, the front and rear subframes are all-new, and the bespoke suspension setup includes KW adjustable dampers. These are manually adjustable as standard, but the Affalterbach package allows for electronic adjustments right from the cabin. This kind of adaptability makes the car a gem both on the streets and on the racetrack.
But what really sets this car apart is the comprehensive integration of motorsport technology. HWA has borrowed from its extensive racing history in DTM and Formula E to add features like double-wishbone suspension, significant camber adjustments, and high-performance brakes. The dry-sump system not only reduces the car’s center of gravity, enhancing its cornering prowess, but also ensures consistent oil supply during high-G maneuvers. Pair that with a front-mid mounted engine and a rear-mounted six-speed manual transaxle, and you’ve got a perfectly balanced machine.
Attention to Detail
The devil is in the details, and the HWA Evo is no exception. The bodywork is crafted from carbon fiber, making it feather-light and robust. This material choice helps keep the curb weight at 2,980 lbs, and a nose-lift function adds practicality by giving the front end an additional 1.2 inches of clearance. The iconic carbon fiber rear wing isn’t just for show; it features an extendable rear flap that provides maximum aerodynamic efficiency.
The interior strikes a balance between retro aesthetics and modern functionality. Digital gauges replicate the look of the early 1990s, complete with smartphone integration for contemporary needs. Recaro bucket seats offer the perfect blend of comfort and support, ensuring that the car isn’t just racetrack-ready but also practical for daily use. The vehicle comes with extensive options for customization, so you can make it truly your own.
Preserving Heritage
With HWA's storied history in motorsport and its deep connections to Mercedes, the company has committed to preserving the spirit of the original Evo II. According to Gordian von Schöning, HWA's CTO, the decision to use an internal combustion engine instead of an electric powertrain was driven by customer demand for an authentic driving experience. “Owners wanted an internal combustion engine—something that would deliver real driving emotion,” he says.
The car stays true to the original’s design, with three restored Evo IIs serving as constant visual references throughout the project. This homage to its predecessor is evident in every detail, from the DTM-inspired arches to the single-piece carbon components. The attention to detail ensures that the HWA Evo is as much a tribute to the past as it is a car for the future.
A Team Like No Other
HWA’s team of 280 employees brings unmatched expertise to this project. The team is capable of handling everything in-house, from engineering and design to manufacturing and paintwork. The heritage of the team members, some of whom worked on the original Evo II, adds a layer of authenticity that few other restomod projects can claim.
The HWA Evo is not just a car; it’s a statement. It embodies the philosophy of creating an extremely dynamic but road-usable vehicle that can handle the rigors of the racetrack while staying true to its roots. “Our philosophy with the HWA EVO is to build a car that retains the spirit of the original,” von Schöning explains.
In an era where modern performance cars are increasingly hybridized and digital, the HWA Evo stands out as a purist’s dream come true. It offers all the thrills of a high-performance vehicle without compromising the essence of what made the original so iconic. For those lucky enough to get their hands on one, this restomod isn’t just a car; it’s a piece of automotive art.