HWA, a renowned German motorsports and engineering firm, has unveiled plans to create a contemporary tribute to the Mercedes-Benz 190 E 2.5-16 Evolution II, a homologation special from the early 1990s. While original examples of the Evolution II can now command prices exceeding half a million dollars at auctions, HWA’s ambitious project, known as the HWA Evo, is expected to come with an even higher price tag, approximately 714,000 euros, or roughly $780,000.
This innovative venture by HWA involves utilizing donor 190E chassis, likely sourced from standard models. The company intends to produce a limited run of 100 units, with deliveries scheduled to commence in late 2025. Notably, another prominent motorsports and engineering entity, Prodrive, had earlier introduced a similar endeavor related to the Subaru Impreza 22B STI.
HWA has disclosed that it has partnered with Curated, a U.S.-based firm specializing in the sale and restoration of classic cars spanning the era from the 1970s to the early 2000s, to handle the marketing of these vehicles.
The original Mercedes-Benz 190 E Evolution II, along with its predecessor, was meticulously engineered to comply with homologation regulations for DTM (Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters) racing. These cars boasted Cosworth-developed 2.5-liter inline-4 engines, accompanied by enhancements in chassis dynamics and aerodynamics, mirroring the features of their racing counterparts. It’s worth noting that a mere 502 units of each version were ever produced, rendering them exceedingly rare among modern Mercedes-Benz automobiles.
Teaser sketches of the HWA Evo indicate a design closely reminiscent of the 190 E Evolution II. However, HWA’s intent is not to replicate these iconic vehicles. Instead, they are committed to leveraging modern technology, encompassing advancements in powertrain, chassis, brakes, aerodynamics, and, notably, safety features. While comprehensive technical specifications remain pending finalization, HWA’s vision for this project emphasizes the fusion of classic aesthetics with cutting-edge engineering.
The announcement of the HWA Evo project coincides with HWA’s 25th anniversary this year. Founded by Hans Werner Aufrecht, one of the co-founders of AMG (Aufrecht, Melcher, and Großaspach), HWA was established to continue its focus on motorsports after Aufrecht’s divestment of his stake in AMG to Mercedes in 1998. Subsequently, Mercedes acquired full ownership of AMG the following year. Over the years, HWA has been involved in diverse projects, spanning from DTM and Formula 3 racing to Formula E and the production of CLK GTR homologation specials. Their contributions extend to engine development for the Pagani Huayra R track car, exemplifying a rich legacy in motorsports and engineering.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Mercedes 190 E Evo II tribute
What is the HWA Evo project?
The HWA Evo project is an initiative by HWA, a German motorsports and engineering company, to create a modern tribute to the iconic Mercedes-Benz 190 E 2.5-16 Evolution II from the early 1990s.
How much will the HWA Evo cost?
The HWA Evo is expected to come with a price tag of approximately 714,000 euros, which is roughly equivalent to $780,000.
When will the HWA Evo be available?
HWA plans to build 100 units of the HWA Evo, with deliveries slated to begin in late 2025.
Is the HWA Evo a replica of the original 190 E Evolution II?
No, the HWA Evo is not intended to be a replica. While it draws design inspiration from the 190 E Evolution II, HWA will incorporate modern technology in aspects such as powertrain, chassis, brakes, aerodynamics, and safety features.
Who is handling the marketing of the HWA Evo?
HWA has partnered with Curated, a U.S.-based company specializing in the sale and restoration of classic cars from the 1970s to the early 2000s, to market the HWA Evo.
What were the original Mercedes 190 E Evolution II and Evo built for?
The original 190 E Evolution II and earlier Evo models were built to meet homologation regulations for DTM (Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters) racing. They featured Cosworth-developed 2.5-liter inline-4 engines and enhancements mirroring those of actual race cars.
How rare are the original 190 E Evolution II and Evo models?
Only 502 units of each version of the original 190 E Evolution II and Evo were ever produced, making them among the rarest modern Mercedes cars.
What is the significance of HWA in the world of motorsports and engineering?
HWA is a prominent company with a legacy in motorsports and engineering. It was founded by Hans Werner Aufrecht, one of the co-founders of AMG (Aufrecht, Melcher, and Großaspach). HWA has been involved in various motorsports, including DTM, Formula 3, and Formula E, as well as projects like producing CLK GTR homologation specials and engine development for the Pagani Huayra R track car.
More about Mercedes 190 E Evo II tribute
- HWA Official Website
- Mercedes-Benz 190 E 2.5-16 Evolution II
- Curated – Classic Car Specialists
- Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters (DTM)
- Hans Werner Aufrecht
- AMG – Aufrecht, Melcher, and Großaspach
- Pagani Huayra R
1 comment
hwa’s makin’ a fancy new version of da Merc 190E Evo II, costin’ a fortune, like 780k USD! Dang, dat’s pricey!