CATERHAM SEVEN SUPERLIGHT/R OPEN REVIEW

Performance

5 out of 5 stars

Buyers of a Seven have a choice of engines and power outputs to suit a range of budgets. The entry-level model has a 105bhp 1.6-litre unit, which is plenty in a car that weighs 550kg. The most outrageous has a whopping 260bhp and provides supercar acceleration. You can even buy a road-legal Seven and go racing with it.
Ride & Handling

4 out of 5 stars

In 1957, this is how racing cars were built - but over the years the design has evolved. The car still thrills with its sensitive handling, balance and amazing grip, despite using ordinary components. This is a lightweight, rear-wheel-drive car, so restraint is needed in the wet. The ride is firm, but not as bad as you might think.
Refinement

1 out of 5 stars

Forget refinement. This is motoring at its most brutal, and driver and passenger will have to put up with plenty of engine, wind and road noise. Anything but the smoothest Tarmac can cause the whole car to shudder, and you'll instantly feel any potholes, cat's eyes or rumble strips.

Buying & Owning

3 out of 5 stars

A Caterham Seven may not be the most practical proposition for everyday driving, but some hardcore owners manage. A cult following and limited production means that the cars hang onto their value incredibly well. The more costly, high-performance models can depreciate faster, because they're more expensive to maintain and have limited appeal.
Quality & Reliability

2 out of 5 stars

Caterham Sevens need looking after and can deteriorate quickly if neglected. A garage is essential for storing one, and the more miles you cover, the more TLC the car will need to stay looking its best. Reliability is not a real problem, because the engines are well tested and robust, although the more powerful cars need careful servicing.
Safety & Security

1 out of 5 stars

Caterham doesn't fit airbags to the Seven, and the only traction control is the driver's right foot. It also does without anti-lock brakes. You could have a roll cage installed, but it makes getting in and out tricky and the hood won't fit. With no locking doors, security is also sparse, so be careful where you park.

Behind The Wheel

2 out of 5 stars

There are a few dials, a steering wheel, pedals and a gearlever: that's all. The standard model is cramped for taller owners or for those broad in the beam. The SV version is a few inches wider for those with a fuller figure.
Space & Practicality

1 out of 5 stars

Space is at a premium in the Caterham, because there's only a very small boot and nowhere else to put luggage, unless you strap a case to the spare wheel at the back. In fact, the cabin doesn't even have a glovebox, so you'll need to travel light if you want to use a Seven as everyday transport. The tent-like hood is claustrophobic and slow to erect, and getting in and out will require some contortions.
Equipment

1 out of 5 stars

For a long list of luxuries and electrical gadgets in your car, look elsewhere, because the Seven is motoring pared to the bone. At least you can specify a heater. Don't bother with the optional stereo - you won't be able to hear anything over the wind, engine and road noise.