The ultra-lightweight body is made from composite materials weighing in at just 700kg – lighter than a Lotus Elise

A new British starlet is set to take the sportscar world by storm – the new MMI Avocet.

Unveiled at today’s 2008 Autosport International Show at Birmingham’s NEC, the British-built Avocet features the 2-litre engine from the Ford Fiesta ST, developing 150bhp in standard guise.

And for hardcore drivers, Roush Technologies has created a 225bhp upgrade as a special option.

This ‘proven’ engine is mounted in an ultra-lightweight body made from composite materials weighing in at just 700kg – lighter than a Lotus Elise – allowing the Essex-built Avocet to accelerate from 0-60mph in under 5 seconds and on to an expected top speed of 140mph.

The two-seat sportscar will be built by MM Industries in South Essex and will use selected Ford performance parts, said to give the car “a mature component inventory which is fully tested and proven in the market.”

But potential buyers had better get their orders in quick. MMI has announced a limited production run of just 50 Avocets in the first year.

MMI Managing Director Martin Miles said: “We believe the Avocet will satisfy the gap in the market which has remained unoccupied for far too long for an affordable performance sportscar.”

Prices have not been announced for the MMI Avocet, but Auto Trader is at the Autosport International Show so check back for the full report on the new Avocet and others.