The Mercedes-Benz 190E has inspired a new restomod project from Vespera Automobili. Called the Iride Evo 5, the build takes design cues from the legendary 2.5-16 Evo II while combining carbon fiber construction, modern engineering, and a heavily modified inline-six engine.
A Modern Take on the Mercedes-Benz 190E
Originally introduced in 1982 as the W201, the Mercedes-Benz 190E was designed to be a smaller Mercedes rather than a budget model. Built with premium engineering, the compact sedan has earned a reputation as a practical classic that continues to feel refined decades after its debut.
The model was offered with a wide range of engines, from the 72-horsepower 2.0-liter diesel in the 190D to the high-performance 2.5-16 Evo II, which became a dominant force in European racing. While restoring original examples remains relatively straightforward, some enthusiasts are turning to extensive restomod projects to reinterpret the iconic sedan.
Vespera Iride Evo 5 Brings a New Vision
Vespera Automobili’s Iride Evo 5 embraces that philosophy. The company says the project draws inspiration from the Mercedes-Benz 2.5-16 Evo II while incorporating exotic materials and contemporary technology.
Although the concept may invite comparisons with the HWA Evo, Vespera describes the Iride Evo 5 as a true restomod, distinguishing it from HWA’s recreation of the 190E DTM racer.
Carbon Fiber Body and Bespoke Interior
The Iride Evo 5 features a carbon fiber exterior that transforms the appearance of the classic sedan with widened bodywork and a large rear wing. The suspension has also been reworked with a significantly wider track than the standard 190E, while additional carbon fiber and other high-grade materials have been incorporated into the chassis upgrades.
The interior remains under development, but Vespera says it will feature carbon fiber, military-derived materials for durability, and a selection of leather finishes that customers can mix and match. Each cabin will be individually tailored through extensive customization and personalization.
Modified M103 Engine Produces 755 Horsepower
Power comes from a modified version of Mercedes-Benz’s M103 inline-six engine. The project uses the 3.0-liter variant originally found in early W124 300E models, where it produced 177 horsepower and 188 lb-ft of torque.
After extensive modifications and the addition of forced induction, the engine now delivers 755 horsepower and 671 lb-ft of torque.
The powertrain is paired with a close-ratio six-speed manual transmission that sends power to the rear wheels. Vespera says the car also features brakes sourced from a 2.5-16 Evo II and a mechanical limited-slip differential.
Performance Claims
According to Vespera, the Iride Evo 5 can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in 3.4 seconds and reach a top speed of 186 mph.
Pricing Still to Be Announced
Vespera has not yet released pricing for the Iride Evo 5, and the project remains a work in progress. Even so, the company is positioning the restomod as a highly customized interpretation of the Mercedes-Benz 190E for enthusiasts seeking a modern take on the classic sports sedan.
