The HWA EVO, a modern take on the classic Mercedes-Benz 190E Evo II, has arrived, and it's a head-turner. This isn't your average reborn classic; it's a bold statement, a celebration of the past with a futuristic twist. The first of its kind, chassis 001, has already found its home in the Nationales Automuseum The Loh Collection, a fitting destination for this iconic car. But what makes the HWA EVO truly fascinating is its unique blend of old-school aesthetics and cutting-edge technology.
A Modern Take on a Classic
The HWA EVO is a testament to the idea that sometimes, less is more. Underneath its retro-inspired exterior, it's a thoroughly modern machine. The 190E Evo II's iconic shape has been meticulously preserved, but it's the engineering beneath that truly sets it apart. Each EVO is a masterpiece of carbon fiber craftsmanship, with an original W201 bodyshell given a new lease of life. The result? A lightweight, agile, and powerful machine that pays homage to the past while looking to the future.
Power and Performance
At the heart of the HWA EVO beats a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine, producing a staggering 444 hp and 550 Nm of torque. But what's truly remarkable is the way it's been engineered. The engine sits behind the front axle, ensuring a 50/50 weight distribution, and drives the rear wheels through a six-speed manual gearbox. This setup is a nod to the classics, but with a modern twist. The EVO's kerb weight of 1,350 kg might seem heavy, but it's a deliberate choice to maintain the car's agility and handling.
A Labor of Love
The journey to bringing the HWA EVO to life has been a labor of love. HWA announced the project in December 2023, and in just over two years, they've transformed an initial design study into a fully developed high-performance vehicle. The extensive testing and validation of prototype PT01 were crucial steps in ensuring the EVO's success. CEO Martin Marx's pride in the team's achievement is evident, and it's easy to see why.
A Racing Soul
But the HWA EVO isn't just a road car; it's a racing soul. HWA has developed the EVO.R, which competed in the ADAC RAVENOL 24 Hours of the Nurburgring in 2026. This racing version is a testament to the EVO's potential, and it will be offered as a customer race car. The road-going EVO, with its production cap of 100 bespoke chassis worldwide, is a limited-edition masterpiece, with prices starting at around 714,000 euros.
A Movement of Analogue Driver's Cars
The HWA EVO is part of a broader movement we're witnessing in the automotive world. From the reborn Jensen Interceptor to Wiesmann's screen-free comeback, small firms are building analogue driver's cars for those who miss the thrill of driving. The delivery of chassis 001 to a museum is a nice touch, but I can't help but wonder if the other 99 should find homes where they can be driven and enjoyed. It's a debate that highlights the passion and dedication of these car enthusiasts.
In my opinion, the HWA EVO is a masterpiece that challenges our notions of what a modern performance car should be. It's a reminder that sometimes, the best innovations come from looking back and building upon the past. As we marvel at its beauty and performance, let's also appreciate the movement it represents: a celebration of analogue driving and a nod to the classics.
