Currently reading: New Superlight R400 from Caterham

New Superlight R400 from Caterham

Caterham has released details of the latest Superlight incarnation of the famous Seven - and undercut the price of its predecessor at the same time.

The new Superlight R400 uses a two-litre Cosworth engine producing 210bhp and 150lb ft of torque at 6300rpm. It weighs just 525kg, resulting in a power-to-weight ratio of 400bhp per tonne and a 0-60mph time of just 3.8sec. The car is the first Caterham model to benefit from new laser cutting and robot welding chassis technology - the result is a 14 per cent increase in torsional rigidity.

The R400 sits on bespoke Avon tyres and 15in wheels, and standard kit includes a dry sump, a limited slip differential, carbon fibre front wings, composite bucket race seats and a composte wind deflector. However, the latter item does come instead of a windscreen.

The car is cheaper than the outgoing R400 - self-build kits cost £26,995, while a fully-built example will set you back £29,495.

Caterham is taking orders now, but the new R400 won't be available to customers until July.

Join our WhatsApp community and be the first to read about the latest news and reviews wowing the car world. Our community is the best, easiest and most direct place to tap into the minds of Autocar, and if you join you’ll also be treated to unique WhatsApp content. You can leave at any time after joining - check our full privacy policy here.

Add a comment…