Body style: Convertible (spider/spyder, cabrio/cabriolet, drop/open/soft top)
Segment: Roadster & Convertible
Production years: 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024
No ABS, no traction control, no radio, no infotainment system, just some extended fenders and an exposed exhaust. Sounds like a 70s’ car? Sure does. Only that it’s not.
The Caterham Seven was first launched in 1973, based on the Lotus Seven from 1957. The 2020 Super Seven 1600 was revealed in 2020. While the base remained pretty much the same, it had an improved suspension, a stronger chassis and, of course, a modern engine.
The engine was actually 1.6-liter 4-cylinder with 135 hp and 160 Nm torque. 135 hp might not sound like enough for 2020, however, if you take into consideration the car’s weight, you would understand why this car was agile and had a top speed of 200 kph. With its total weight of 565 kg, the new classic could get to 100 kph in 5 seconds.
The power was sent to the wheels through a 5-speed manual transmission, offering the driver a pure driving experience. Did I mention the small car was not equipped with power steering? That pretty much added to unfiltered sensation.
The driver would very much feel in control of the vehicle and one of the reasons would be the seat being located on the rear axle, while the driver’s hands would be connected directly to the front wheels.
Its release price for the standard version would be around $44.000. Would you pay that amount for such a car? Or up to $60.000 for the top of the range?
ENGINE SPECS - 1.6L 5MT (135 HP) | |
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Cylinders: | L4 |
Power: | 100.7 KW @ 6800 RPM 136.9 HP @ 6800 RPM 135 BHP @ 6800 RPM |
Torque: | 122 lb-ft @ 4100 RPM 165 Nm @ 4100 RPM |
Fuel: | Gasoline |
PERFORMANCE SPECS | |
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Top Speed: | 122 mph (196 km/h) |
Acceleration 0-62 Mph (0-100 kph): | 5.2 s |
TRANSMISSION SPECS | |
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Drive Type: | Front Wheel Drive |
Gearbox: | 5-speed automatic |
BRAKES SPECS | |
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Front: | Ventilated Discs |
Rear: | Discs |
DIMENSIONS | |
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Length: | 125.2 in (3180 mm) |
Width: | 62 in (1575 mm) |
Height: | 42.9 in (1090 mm) |
WEIGHT SPECS | |
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Unladen Weight: | 1246 lbs (565 kg) |