For The cheapest entry into Caterham ownership is great fun, and the 105bhp 1.4-litre engine will keep your running costs low. The Seven's handling is legendary, and it has plenty of grip, so twisting country roads can be tackled with confidence.
Against There's little in the way of standard equipment, and you'll want to add some options if you want any practicality. A windscreen, hood, a heater, carpet and even paint are extra. You do get a six-speed gearbox.
What Car? says
The Classic is the most accessible Seven, but it's just a little too spartan to be an everyday sports car. It also won't have the best residual value. The six-speed gearbox is slick to use, but doesn't really add that much to the overall package. By the time you've spent money on desirable options you might want to consider the next model up.
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View the whole Caterham Seven Classic Open range
Cheaper
-
Open 1.4 K-Series 105 5sp 2dr
£16,650 -
Open 1.4 K-Series 105 5sp SV 2dr
£18,650 -
Open 1.4 K-Series 105 6sp 2dr
£19,400
More expensive
-
Open 1.4 K-Series 105 5sp 2dr
£16,650 -
Open 1.4 K-Series 105 5sp SV 2dr
£18,650 -
Open 1.4 K-Series 105 6sp 2dr
£19,400
Buyer's notes
Target Price team says:
The entry-level cars are a little too basic, so it's better to look at the mid-range models. You can select from a wide range of options to personalise your car, but don't go mad, or you'll end up spending a fortune.
The fire-breathing high performance models are road legal, but are ideally suited to smooth race tracks - so aren't at their best on some of the UK's poor-quality roads.
A garage for storage is essential, as a Caterham exposed to the elements will look tatty quickly. You can elect to build the car yourself, however this will take time and you'll need the facilities, tools and skill to do the job properly.
Reader test team says:
Caterham Seven Classic Open 1.4 K-Series 105 6sp 2dr
the only way to rate this car is the seperation…
5
out of 5 stars
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