Click on image to view the full photo gallery
Caterham Seven Super 1.8 i 16V (232 Hp)
Overall Rating
Caterham Seven:
The Caterham 7 is a super-lightweight sports car produced by Caterham Cars in the United Kingdom. It is based on the Lotus Seven, a lightweight sports car sold in kit and factory-built form by Lotus Cars, from 1957 to 1972.
After Lotus ended production of the Lotus Seven, Caterham bought the rights to the design, and today make both kits and fully assembled cars. The modern Caterham Seven is based on the Series 3 Lotus Seven, though developed to the point that no part is the same as on the original Lotus....(Read more on Wikipedia)
Super Overview:
Caterham Seven (Super). With 210 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. Acceleration is excellent (0–100 km/h in 3.4 s). The top speed reaches 241 km/h. A convertible car with a retractable roof, offering open-air driving experiences. Seating for 2 makes it ideal for daily use.
The Caterham Seven Super, like most low-volume, track-focused vehicles, was not subjected to Euro NCAP crash testing. Its design prioritizes lightness and driver feedback over passive crash safety features, offering a very direct and exposed driving experience.
1.8 i 16V (232 Hp) Verdict:
Performance Verdict
The ultimate expression of the Seven Super, this engine delivers mind-bending acceleration and track-focused performance. It's an extreme machine for experienced drivers seeking unparalleled thrills.
Fuel Economy
Fuel economy is secondary to performance in this trim. Expect high consumption under spirited driving, but it's a small price for such explosive power.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Unmatched driving engagement and purity
- • Exceptional power-to-weight ratio across all trims
- • Direct and communicative steering and handling
- • Timeless, iconic design
- • Highly customizable and upgradeable
Cons:
- • Minimal comfort and practicality for daily use
- • Lack of modern safety features (no Euro NCAP rating)
- • Exposed cabin with limited weather protection
- • High running costs for top-tier performance models
- • Requires dedicated maintenance and mechanical sympathy
Specifications:
Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(Super: 1992 - 1995).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | Caterham |
| Model: | Seven |
| Generation: | Super |
| Modification (Engine): | 1.8 i 16V (232 Hp) |
| Start of production: | 1999 |
| End of production: | 2001 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Cabriolet |
| Seats: | 2 |
| Doors: | 2 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 232 Hp @ 8600 rpm. |
| Power per litre: | 129.2 Hp/l |
| Torque: | 210 Nm @ 7200 rpm. |
| Engine displacement: | 1795 |
| Number of cylinders: | 4 |
| Engine configuration: | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder: | 4 |
| Fuel injection system: | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration: | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain: | DOHC |
| Engine layout: | Front, Longitudinal |
| Cylinder Bore: | 80 mm |
| Piston Stroke: | 89.3 mm |
| Compression ratio: | 11.5:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h: | 3.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 - 62 mph: | 3.4 sec |
| Maximum speed: | 241 km/h |
| Acceleration 0 - 60 mph: | 3.2 sec |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Trunk (boot) space - minimum: | 75 l |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 36 l |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 3380 mm [Same length.] |
| Width: | 1580 mm [Same width.] |
| Height: | 1120 mm [Same height.] |
| Wheelbase: | 2230 mm [Same wheelbase.] |
| Front track: | 1270 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1330 mm |
| Powertrain: | |
|---|---|
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Transmission type | Manual |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 185/60 R16 |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Suspension De-Dion |
The hidden gems or the annoying flaws? Expose the truth about the Caterham Seven!