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KTM to car enthusiasts, this company may be unheard of save for a handful. KTM is known for its motorcycles and dirt bikes that have won countless races. So, what is KTM doing in the auto world?
KTM X-BOW
Introducing the first four-wheeled vehicle of the Austrian-based KTM Company, the 2008 KTM X-BOW.
First look of the car and you have no doubt in your mind it’s a bad boy looking for trouble. It’s a thoroughbred made for only one thing, speed. As with KTM bikes, this newest addition to its family is built to race. Built not only for the track but also developed to be able to adapt to the streets. This cross between a car and a sci-fi buff’s wet dream will provide sporty drivers the pure ecstatic pleasure most will not find in conventional sports cars.
What Makes It Unique
A warning though, if you are looking for a car that you can drive everyday, rain or shine, and give you the comforts of a luxury sedan, look away. This car would tear you to shreds. Without a roof, a door, or even a windshield, make sure you check the weather reports before burning the streets. With its black carbon fiber monocoque semi- skeletal and orange fender-like color, with thick rear tires and gothic-like (picture the new batmobile, only more suave) accents, jaw dropping will be an epidemic wherever you pass by.
It can run 60 mph in less than four seconds and has a borrowed VW/Audi 2.0 liter turbocharged four-cylinder direct injection engine, able to turn 200 to 300 hp and a lightweight body (only 150 pounds). It also has two transmissions, a twin clutch sequential manual and a six-speed manual. Its overall weight of 1,550 pounds with its monstrous engine can be summed up in one word - speed. KTM, being a motorcycle company, also includes matching helmets and overalls, completing the effect of being a racecar driver.
Grab One Now
A slight problem though, KTM announces it will only produce 100 comprehensive pre-series units, made by the Italian race car company Dallara, and only 500 annually once in full production. Also, it will only be available to select European countries. The base price of the 2008 KTM X-Bow would be 40,000 euros or close to 53,000 dollars.
This car is not for everybody. If you want pulse-pounding, adrenaline-pumping, no-care attitude, neck-twisting car, yeah, get an X-Bow. If you can, that is. Otherwise, just buy a sedan.