One of the best methods of improving the handling of a car is to reduce weight. That’s why it’s not a surprise these days to see motorcycle companies developing sport cars; after all they know a thing or two about weight. The latest incarnation of these sports cars is the KTM X-Bow.

The X-Bow is powered by a Four-cylinder TFSI from Audi which develops 220hp. This, combined with the total weight of the car reaching approx 700 kilos, allows it to races from 0-60 mph in 3.9 seconds. Also impressive is the braking from 60 in 33 meters (similar as a Porsche 911 GT3).

KTM plans to go further by releasing a type R in the near future. Currently KTM is negotiating with Audi to use the 260hp engine from the upcoming S3 to achieve this, reports UK's Autocar magazine.

If these negotiations are successful we could be looking at a 280hp X-Bow R. Meanwhile KTM plans to release a tuning upgrade for their current version, which is set to shift to full production in 2008. This package will increase the power output to 250hp, allowing it to reach 0-60mph in 3.6secs.

The positive reaction of the X-Bow at the Geneva Motor Show saw the company receiving 600 orders, while to date the waiting list spans 2 years to receive this beast of a car. Ariel and Caterham might have a bit of a battle to face to see who is on top for this niche in the market.

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