2010 Speedshow highlights cutting edge two-seater performance cars

Two outrageous ‘must see’ two-seater performance cars add to the exciting and diverse line-up of automotive delights at the 2010 Speedshow.

KTM’s radical two-seater, carbon fibre X-Box will be on show alongside the world’s fastest production sports car called the Radical SR8.

Both are truly eye-catching and cutting edge in their lightweight design and top-end performance.

Made in the UK, a Radical SR8 holds the lap record around the world’s longest and most arduous track, the Nürburgring Nordschleife. The SR8 is one of six sports cars made by Radical, which was started by a group of racing enthusiasts who originally had the idea of building a sports car powered by a motorcycle engine. The company’s SR9 sports car was voted the 'car of the year' by Motors TV after finishing its maiden 24 hour Le Mans race.

“The whole concept of a car powered by a motorcycle engine is pretty cutting edge and the 460 bhp, 2.8-litre SR8 LM sports car we’ll see at Speedshow uses a unique Powertec RP lightweight engine which incorporates both F1 and superbike technology,” says Speedshow organiser Keith Sharp. “It’s a real treat to have this super performance car at Speedshow.

The KTM X-Bow, which is said ‘crossbow’, is the motorcycle manufacturer’s first four-wheeler. Launched in 2008, it’s made almost entirely of carbon fibre as a GT4 sports light racing car and the first example turned up in New Zealand in recent months.

NZ Autocar’s Peter Louisson describes the X-Bow as having “...KTM DNA oozing from its pores. Its ultra-light weight, the result of the use of exotic components and materials, is complemented by edge styling and, naturally, live and direct handling. It’s the size of a Boxster (and similar in price too) but weighs only about two-thirds as much ... driven here, in base 177 kW tune, with a weight-to-power ratio of 4.4 kg/kW, it powers off the start line without undue wheelspin and met the 4.4s claimed 0-100 km/h mark on the first run.”

Sharp adds: “Like the Radical, we’re fortunate to have the KTM X-Bow at Speedshow courtesy of its New Zealand owner. The passion these guys have for cool cars is totally what Speedshow is all about.”

Speedshow takes place at the ASB Showgrounds on Saturday 24 and Sunday 25 July. Car and bike enthusiasts have many options for making a fantastically entertaining day out for children and adults alike with this year’s Speedshow featuring indoor kart racing, great action in the Ezybuy Auctions live action arena, hundreds of new, classic and high performance cars and motorbikes, specialist trade displays, merchandise and much more. Tickets available at the gate or through Ticketek.

News and details are updated on the Speedshow website on a regular basis; see www.speedshow.co.nz.