Reinterpretation of the legendary Mercedes 190 EVO II is reborn with 765 hp and exclusive customization By Beatriz
3 min read
 |
Vespera Automobili, an Italian company, recently brought the iconic Mercedes-Benz 190 Evo II back to life with an exclusive restoration and modification project, popularly known as a restomod, presented on July 29th. This modern recreation seeks to combine the tradition of the original model with high performance and advanced materials.
The project, called Vespera Iride Evo 5, brings back the essence of the 90s, but with a totally contemporary approach. This model is an exclusive tribute to the renowned Mercedes-Benz 190 Evo II, designed with cutting-edge materials, completely redesigned mechanics and performance that elevates it to the level of a supercar.
Part of the development involved the collaboration of Loris Capirossi, a well-known figure among car enthusiasts and collectors. The resulting sports car features a carbon fiber body with an extended design, a six-cylinder turbo engine that generates 765 horsepower and a completely artisanal manufacturing process, ensuring the uniqueness of each unit through an extensive customization program.
The renewed and expanded design of the Vespera Iride Evo 5 model
The visual identity of the Vespera Iride Evo 5 immediately refers to the Mercedes 190 Evo II, an emblematic sedan from 1990, originally created for homologation in the Group A DTM championship. Although it maintains the proportions and spirit of the classic vehicle, its entire design has been modernized.
The original Mercedes bodywork has undergone a complete redesign and is now constructed entirely from carbon fiber. The gauge was expanded by 9.9 centimeters on each side, resulting in a total widening of 20 centimeters compared to the 190 millimeter model. This change gives the vehicle an even more imposing appearance, highlighted by new side skirts, air intakes positioned behind the wheel arches and a large spoiler at the rear.
During the presentation, the Vespera Iride Evo 5 was shown with a sophisticated Montreal Green finish and gold details. However, each buyer has the freedom to select an exclusive color, which, after choosing, is removed from the palette to ensure that no other example is produced with the same shade, reinforcing exclusivity.
To complete the visual appeal, the car is equipped with full LED headlights and the distinctive OZ Rally Racing wheels, which establish yet another direct link with the world of motorsport.
Engine details and performance of the new sports car
While the design maintains its fidelity to its classic heritage, the mechanical part of the vehicle has undergone an almost total transformation.
The technical foundation is the Mercedes M103 six-cylinder in-line engine, originally a 2.6-liter naturally aspirated engine. Vespera engineers expanded its displacement to 3.0 liters, installed high-strength forged components and incorporated a forced induction system.
The performance data is remarkable: the car delivers 765 horsepower, accompanied by 913 Nm of torque, managed by a six-speed manual transmission. Power is directed to the rear wheels via a limited slip differential. This configuration allows the Iride Evo 5 to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in an impressive 3.4 seconds and reach a top speed of 300 km/h while maintaining a weight of 1,450 kg.
The handling was designed to deliver a truly immersive driving experience. The braking system is inspired by the original 190 Evo II, and the maintenance of the manual transmission represents an unusual choice among contemporary supercars, aiming to engage the driver with each gear change.
The customizable interior is still being finalized
The vehicle’s cabin is still nearing completion, but Vespera has already established the philosophical vision behind the design.
The interior will integrate elements such as carbon fiber, leather and Alcantara, with exclusive finishes and a high level of personalization. The goal is to preserve the analog feel of the car, without compromising the quality of materials and excellence in construction, characteristics of a modern, handcrafted grand tourer.
Similar to the exterior, the interior will also allow configuration to each customer’s individual specifications, ensuring that each unit is virtually unique.
The final value of the Vespera Iride Evo 5 has not been publicly disclosed and is only revealed to those interested in the acquisition. This approach is in line with the project philosophy, where each Vespera is produced to order and conceived as a unique work, aimed at the most discerning and demanding collectors.
