Caterham Seven 170

As the successor to the previous entry-level Seven 160, Caterham presents the new Seven 170. Although this is the brand’s smallest model, it already offers plenty of driving pleasure. The clearly recognizable motto behind the development was to simplify and add lightness. Redesigned front and rear fenders reduce the width to just 1.47 meters, which theoretically makes the Seven 170 fit into the Japanese kei-car class. Whether this was in the specifications of the developers at the Japanese parent company VT Holdings may be doubted. The reason for the doubts can be found under the removable engine hood. It is true that the Suzuki three-cylinder engine installed there has a suitable displacement of only 660 cc. However, the output is 84 hp and 116 Nm, which clearly exceeds the limit of kei-cars. In the Seven 170, these values are sufficient to accelerate the driver and passenger from a standstill to 62 mph in 6.9 seconds and to reach a maximum of 112 mph.

Available with S- or R-Pack

The model name 170 is derived from the power-to-weight ratio of the new sports car. Thanks to an kerb weight of just over 440 kilograms, this is 170 hp per ton. Customers can decide on the orientation of their Seven 170 as early as the configuration stage. In addition to the S Pack with windshield, there is the wilder R Pack, in which only a low wind deflector is mounted in front of the passengers. Next to that, the R Pack includes a sport suspension, a limited-slip differential, composite bucket seats with four-point harnesses, a carbon dashboard, and 14-inch wheels painted black. These wheels are alternatively available in silver or grey, always covered with 155 tires. Basic standard equipment includes a Momo steering wheel (optionally removable), LED taillights, polished exhaust side pipes and a five-speed manual transmission. Four of the total 20 paint colors can also be selected free of charge.

Various options available

If desired, the vehicle nose and the fenders can be finished in bare carbon. The 7 logo in the grille can be colored, as can the optional racing stripes or the roll bar. The latter can also be extended for trackday drivers to provide more safety. In addition, there are various weather protection measures such as plug-in side windows or a tarpaulin. For taller owners, the underbody can be lowered. In the UK, the base price is £ 22,990, in Germany it is € 29,495.

Images: Caterham Cars