HWA EVO R Turns 190E Evo II Nostalgia Into A Nürburgring-Ready Track Car

A Modern Evo II with Proper Motorsport Roots

When HWA pulled the covers off the EVO, it was hard not to take notice – especially if you grew up with posters of the 190E 2.5-16 Evo II on your wall. But this wasn’t just another retro restomod. HWA started with the familiar shape, then reworked almost everything beneath the surface using modern materials and lessons learned from decades in motorsport.

With roots deep in Mercedes-AMG’s racing history in DTM and GT programs, HWA definitely knows how to build a track car. Now, the company is pushing things even further with the EVO R – a track-only special, and only 15 will exist. This isn’t just a road car with a roll cage. The EVO R is built for endurance racing and serious circuit work, landing just as HWA’s own EVO.R race cars get ready for the 2026 Nürburgring 24 Hours.

Built for Track Days, Not Garage Displays

Under the skin, the EVO R is closely related to the Nürburgring race car, but HWA has tuned it so drivers of all skill levels can get comfortable behind the wheel. The front-mid-engine and transaxle layout gives it a balanced feel, and the six-way adjustable suspension – developed with KW and H&R – means you can dial it in for any track or driving style.

Stopping power comes from AP Racing competition brakes, and the body gets even more upgrades over the already carbon-packed road car. Widened arches, a new hood with NACA ducts, polycarbonate windows, removable rear doors, and lightweight RONAL wheels all make the EVO R look even more like it belongs on a DTM grid. It’s still instantly recognizable as an Evo II, just turned up a notch.

Inside, the cockpit features a movable pedal box and a custom full-carbon racing seat that accommodates a range of body types. Safety is covered too, with a reinforced monocoque, FIA-approved roll cage, and a racing fuel cell.

HWA didn’t forget the details that matter during long stints. Buyers can add things like a built-in four-airjack system, a drinks setup, air conditioning, a passenger seat, and a full lighting package for 24-hour events or night sessions.

Nürburgring Racing Doubles as Development Work

Power comes from HWA’s twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6, now tuned for about 552 horsepower and 494 lb-ft of torque. The engine is managed by a Bosch Motorsport ECU, and shifting is handled by a six-speed sequential gearbox.

Each EVO R is built to order, with buyers able to choose from several option packs – including endurance-racing kits. Owners also get access to HWA’s support program, which covers technical help, spare parts, and even trackside assistance.

HWA’s Nürburgring effort isn’t just about chasing trophies. The three EVO.R race cars running in the SP-X class at the 2026 Nürburgring 24 Hours will use the race as a real-world test for durability and development. And since the Nordschleife is famous for punishing weak points, if anything’s going to break, it’ll happen here.

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