Caterham reveals the Superlight R400
Author: Tracy Wilkinson
Published: 19 April 2006
British sportscar maker, Caterham, has revealed details of its latest racing-bred road car, the Superlight R400.
This keenly anticipated new model uses the Seven’s classic formula of motorsport technology and minimalism to deliver a car weighing just 525kg, capable of effortlessly sprinting out of the blocks to 60mph in 3.8 seconds.
The heart of the Seven is the new Cosworth-developed 2.0-litre powerplant that is mated, for the first time, to the legendary de Dion chassis.
Delivering an explosive 210bhp at 7600rpm – equivalent to a massive 400bhp per tonne - and 150lbft of torque at 6300 rpm, the engine embodies Cosworth’s vast expertise in performance engine development. With its near-telepathic steering, muscular power delivery, and epic cornering ability, the R400 is a superlative car for the keen driver.
Sitting purposefully on bespoke Avon CR500 tyres and 15" wheels, the new model is also fitted as standard with dry sump, limited slip differential, carbon fibre front wings, composite bucket race seats, four-point harness and a composite wind deflector in lieu of a windscreen.
The new Superlight R400 is the successor to the hugely popular Rover K-Series engined R400, a car that not only enjoyed great success on the road, but also excelled on the circuit through Caterham’s R400 and Eurocup race series.
Caterham is pleased to be able to offer the new 2006 car at a lower price than the outgoing R400, despite the gains in performance. This supercar-beating Seven available in component form, for those wishing to self-build, for £26,995 or fully built at the firm’s Dartford factory for £29,495.
Production begins in July - So get your order in now!
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