The Mercedes-Benz 190E Returns to Motorsport with HWA Evo in 2026
The iconic Mercedes-Benz 190E is set to make a comeback to the top-flight motorsport scene in 2026, as German engineering firm HWA prepares to enter its new Evo model into the prestigious Nürburgring 24 Hours race.
HWA will field two examples of the Evo in the SP-X class for special vehicles, taking inspiration from the original Mercedes 190E DTM racer and its homologation special.
While details about the extent of modifications are yet to be revealed, the Evo retains a visually faithful design to the original DTM cars, featuring a low and wide-set stance, turbofan-style wheels, and minimal aerodynamic changes from the road-going version.
Powering the Evo is a 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged V6 engine supplied by Mercedes, paired with a manual gearbox. In its standard form, the engine produces 443bhp and 405lb ft of torque, with an optional pack available to boost power to 493bhp.
The bodywork of the Evo is constructed from fibreglass composite, showcasing a slightly more aggressive design compared to the original Mercedes 190E 2.5-16 Evolution II, drawing closer inspiration from the DTM racers. The car’s kerb weight is rated at 1360kg.
While the driver lineup for the race is yet to be announced, HWA has confirmed that testing will be carried out by Roland Asch and Klaus Ludwig, both of whom have experience driving the original 190E in the DTM series during the early 1990s.
In a nod to the past, Klaus Ludwig drove the Sonax and Hugo Boss-sponsored car that served as the inspiration for HWA’s Evo livery.
This motorsport venture marks a significant milestone for HWA, founded by AMG co-founder Hans Werner Aufrecht and based in Affalterbach, as the firm has a rich history of supporting AMG’s sporting endeavors.
Previous projects by HWA include the development of the road-going version of the Mercedes CLK GTR, managing Mercedes’ DTM race program, and the creation of the Mercedes-AMG GT3.
