For many, first seeing the KTM X-Bow being flogged by Jeremy Clarkson on Top Gear was the start of a childish love affair with a man-sized toy. Unfortunately, enjoyment of this go-kart on steroids has previously been limited to European consumption, but now there is an option for those in America who must have a X-Bow.
While KTM still won’t be selling its X-Bow in America, folks at British Racing Group, LLC, have devised a way and a plan to bring at least the majority of the car to the U.S. in the form of a kit car – sans Audi 2.0-liter turbocharged engine and transaxle.
So while you may not quite be able to buy an X-Bow and drive it home, you can at least start with a kit and then contact an Audi dealer or supplier of choice to procure the powertrain, and of course do the work of fitting it all together as well. In the end, though, the car will be legal in the U.S. as a special construction vehicle, per EPA, NHTSA and state departments of transportation.
Once it’s all together, what can it do?
Assuming you put it together correctly, the X-Bow can hit 62 miles per hour in just 3.9 seconds, with a top speed of 180 miles per hour. The car can be fitted with either a six-speed manual or a DSG gearbox. Oh, and the Audi 2.0-liter turbocharged engine is good for 237 horsepower and 228 lb-ft of torque – all of which is wrapped into a 1,500 lb car.
Pricing of the U.S.-spec X-Bow will start at $88,500 for the base ‘Street’ model. Stepping up to the ‘Clubsport’ will set you back $103,500, while the up-level ‘Superlight’ will list from $134,500. The range-topping ‘GT4′ is set to carry a starting price of $139,000.
Of course that’s not the entire story as the X-Bow comes sans drivetrain. Adding in the Audi-sourced drivetrain will tack on $7,900 to the X-Bow’s final price.
References
1.’British Racing Group…’ view
2.’ KTM X-Bow finally…’ view
