Caterham Cars has introduced three brand new additions to its existing range of iconic sportscars. The Seven 270, 360 and 480 are all available in the UK immediately. The introduction of these three new variants join the 160 and 620R models to simplify and round off Caterham’s range of core models. In addition, all Caterham Sevens can now be specified with brand new ‘S’ or ‘R’ equipment packages.
Like all Sevens, the new variants adhere to Caterham’s brand mantra of delivering ‘accessible fun’ through the traditional Caterham minimalistic, lightweight approach to sportscar engineering. The entry-level 160 model was launched in 2013. It embodies the pioneering spirit of early Sevens with its compact 3-cylinder engine and live-axle rear suspension. Next up is the new 270 model, powered by the latest-generation 1.6 Ford Sigma engine with variable-valve timing technology and offering a 10bhp power upgrade from the outgoing Roadsport 125 it replaces.
Sitting in the middle of the range is the Seven 360, which runs the same 2.0 Ford Duratec power unit as Caterham’s flagship R300 race cars, offering the perfect balance between road and race track. The penultimate model in the line-up is the Seven 420, which features a dry sump and is also powered by the 2.0 Ford Duratec, although benefitting from modifications which offer 210bhp. At the top of the range, is Caterham’s mighty 620R, which also runs a finely-tuned 2.0 Ford Duratec that pumps out an extreme 310bhp and reaches 0-62mph in 2.8 seconds.
The British sportscar maker has also introduced two brand new equipment packages, which are available on all models. The new ‘S’ and ‘R’ packs offer specially-tailored trim and equipment packages to suit both road and track drivers.
The ‘S’ pack is geared towards the casual road driver and includes creature comforts such as a fully-carpeted cockpit, full windscreen, hood and side screens and leather seats. Meanwhile, the ‘R’ pack is more track-focused, whilst retaining its road car status by offering limited-slip differential, sports suspension and a four-point race harness.
The ‘R’ pack also offers 15″ Orcus alloy wheels, which have been exclusively designed for Caterham and are 10% lighter than the outgoing 15″ alloy wheel. In the cockpit, the unique ‘R’ rev-counter has been orientated to optimise it for use at high rpm. For customers with pure track driving in mind, a 13″ alloy wheel is available as an option with the ‘R’ pack; customers choosing this option will also benefit from an upgraded suspension geometry set-up to ensure the ultimate in race track handling.
