Caterham Superlight

Caterham Superlight R500

Latest lightweight offering from British sporstcar firm is fastest-ever.

Auto Express Car Reviews

16th April 2008

Feast your eyes on the ultimate Caterham. This is the new Superlight R500 – and it can cover 0-60mph in only 2.9 seconds!

Weighing in at just 506kg, the newcomer is powered by a 2.0-litre petrol engine from the relatively humble Ford Mondeo.

However, Caterham’s engineers have tuned it to deliver a more impressive 263bhp. Combined with the R500’s incredibly light body, this means that the model has a power-to-weight ratio of 520bhp per ton, eclipsing even that of the £800,000 Bugatti Veyron supercar.

The R500, which is available now, comes as standard with adjustable sports suspension and a conventional six-speed manual gearbox. A sequential transmission and Formula One-style launch control system will both be available on the options list, while prices start at £36,995.

The looks of the two-seater have remained largely unchanged since the Lotus Seven was launched in 1957, but the R500 boasts some subtle detail alterations including clear indicator and rear light lenses. Meanwhile, the cabin benefits from a revised dashboard and new switchgear layout. The car also features distinct red bonnet stripes.