LOGBOOK LOWDOWN
already explained produces 135bhp.
On the normal 270 model this engine uses the standard Ford fuel injection system but on this retro version there are a pair of sexy-looking Weber twin-choke carburettors sticking out of the side of the bonnet.
AT LEAST that’s what they look like, they are actually fuel-injection units made by a company called Jenvey that look like carbs.
They look cool but they also make a very authentic sucking noise.
Most Caterhams today are fitted with cycle wings but the Super Seven has traditional flared wings.
Performance and track day nutters don’t like the flared wings because they generate drag and lift but I reckon they look the business.
I had them on the first Caterham that I built.They also look better from the driving seat. Bit like a 1930s MG.
Also like an old classic car the Super Seven is fitted with chrome bezelled Smiths gauges.
About as far as you can get from a touchscreen and infotainment.
You can have all that on your weekday commuter car.
That said, I used to commute to work every day in the first Caterham that I had.
A roof is optional.And although it looks as though it’s part of a tent it’s surprisingly effective.
As I found out during our test drive when one of the rare days of lockdown rain decided to arrive.
You get the odd drop of water but not much comes in.
This is the result of over 60 years of development. People used to say that a Caterham Seven is a
Caterham Super Seven 1600
Now £33,495
1.6 135bhp
0 to 62mph in 5.0 seconds, 122mph top speed
N/A
N/A Lotus Elise, Mazda MX-5 four-wheeled motorbike.Those who ride bikes know that is c ****** s.
Cars don’t lean into corners or pull wheelies.
But there is a similarity between this car and a bike – and that’s simplicity. No infotainment we’ve mentioned, but it also has no
■ power steering, no power brakes and no electronic aids.
It’s as pure driving experience but unlike most classic cars the Caterham handles brilliantly and is fast.
Even with only 135bhp this car will accelerate from 0-60mph in 5.0sec.That might not sound impressive next to a supercar but it’s still quick.
Neither does a top speed of 122mph sound impressive but you’ll find yourself having a massive amount of fun in this car below the legal limit.
In fact, in heavy rain it was quite a challenge to keep up to the 60mph national speed limit on country roads. No anti-lock brakes or stability control, remember. Time to mention the money. The cheapest car that Caterham sells is the entry-level 270 at £27,490.
This one, without any options, is £33,495 and that’s with you building it. Get the job done for you and you have to add a further £2,395 (by the way, it takes around 80 hours to build a car).
Sounds like shocking value for money when a Mazda MX-5 can be had for just a few quid over 20 grand.
And you don’t need to put it together. But here’s the thing: Caterham Sevens tend to hold their value extremely well.
It is almost impossible to find one for sale at under £10,000 regardless of age or condition and although the Super Seven is more expensive than the very similar basic 270, it might keep its value longer too.
Regardless, this will be one of the most fun cars that we’ll test this year.
The good news is that Caterham dealers are all able to rent you a car for a day or for longer from £199 so that you can find out what the fuss is about.