In a landscape where the automotive industry is rapidly embracing electric power, enthusiasts find solace in the preservation of classic performance cars’ character and driving joy. Enthusiasts have seemingly found their balance of nostalgia and modern innovation in resto-mods, breathing new life into universally beloved classics. The latest project to join this trend is the HWA EVO, a meticulous restoration of the iconic Mercedes-Benz 190E Evo designed in collaboration with HWA and CURATED.
To understand the significance of this venture, a glance at the history of the Mercedes-Benz 190E is essential. Originally introduced in the 1980s, the 190E was an embodiment of luxury and performance. However, it was the 190E 2.5-16 Evolution, or simply the 190E Evo, that carved its name in automotive history. With a distinctive 90s design, exhilarating performance, and sedan comfort, the 190E Evo became a timeless classic, capturing the hearts of enthusiasts.
The restoration project, led by HWA, bears the name of its founder, Hans Werner Aufrecht, a stalwart in performance engineering renowned for his contributions to both HWA and AMG, Mercedes-Benz’s factory performance division. Collaborating with CURATED, experts in sourcing, selling, and celebrating vintage European automotive masterpieces, HWA embarked on a journey to revive the spirit of the 190E Evo for a new era. While only 500 units of the EVO II were produced for motorsport homologation, the HWA Evo is limited to just 100 units, the deliveries of which will begin in 2025.
The recently unveiled HWA EVO is the culmination of 12,000 hours of meticulous engineering, development, and design. The first look at the resto-mod captures the essence of what made the original 190E Evo special. The unmistakable 90s design is retained, paying homage to an era marked by unique aesthetics. However, it has been modernised with the use of LED lighting all around. The revolutionary performance that set the 190E Evo apart is not only preserved but enhanced with cutting-edge technology, ensuring the car remains relevant in the modern landscape.
While the automotive world eagerly anticipates the HWA EVO’s official debut, the restoration project signifies a commitment to preserving automotive heritage while embracing the future. The collaboration between HWA and CURATED reflects a shared passion for automotive excellence and a dedication to delivering a vehicle that seamlessly blends the charm of the past with the innovation of the present.