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The Caterham CSR 260 Superlight is an excellent race car but perhaps not best suited to public roads

Caterham CSR 260 Superlight

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14th September 2006

The formula for Caterham’s success is simple. Minimum weight and simple engineering result in maximum performance and handling involvement. And it’s a blueprint which the latest CSR 260 Superlight follows to the letter.
 
Minimum weight and simple engineering result in maximum performance and handling involvement.

The CSR earned Caterham our Specialist Manufacturer of the year award at New Car Honours 2005, thanks to its all-new chassis, 2.3-litre engine and in-board suspension system. The Superlight has the same 260bhp output, but sheds 25kg by doing away with the windscreen, carpet, heater and weather gear.

So there isn’t much protection from the elements, although a carbon-fibre dashboard and wind deflector, quick-release steering wheel, limited-slip differential, semi-slick tyres and a full harness are included. It’s fair to say this is little more than a race car with number plates.

It’s not at its best on public roads, then. You can’t leave home without a safety helmet, while the vibrations and noise are exhausting. Still, the sensation of speed is without equal. Acceleration is ferocious and grip is mind boggling. This was comfortably the fastest car around the circuit, lapping Croft 3.9 seconds quicker than the Lamborghini in second.

The CSR can’t match the Exige’s sharp turn-in and high-speed cornering grip, but it feels alive at all times and is so composed. While extreme and entertaining, though, the £38,995 Superlight is costly for what can only ever be a second car.

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    Caterham CSR 260 Superlight
    Caterham CSR 260 Superlight
    Caterham CSR 260 Superlight

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    Extra Info

    On-the-road price: £38,995
    Engine/capacity: 4cyl in-line/2,261
    Peak power: 260/7,500 bhp/rpm
    Peak torque: 271/6,200 Nm/rpm
    Kerbweight: 570kg
    0-60 claimed/actual: 3.1/3.6secs
    30-70mph/top speed: 2.7secs/155mph
    60-0mph: 36.5 metres
    Noise idle/full revs: 72/113dB
    Lap time/ranking: 1min 33.34secs/1st

    Road rating: 2/5
    Track rating: 5/5
    Feelgood factor: 5/5
    Value rating: 3/5
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