Caterham Seven K Series
Classic looks and modern tech are an enticing mix in a sports car, and the Caterham Seven Classic has them both.
Years: 1991-2013Price new: £13,180Engine: 1.4-litre 4cyl, 105bhp
Classic looks and modern tech are an enticing mix in a sports car, and the Caterham Seven Classic has them both. The original Seven’s design stretches all the way back to 1957, but under the bonnet is the same fuel-injected, 16-valve engine found in the Rover 200.
In combination with the car’s 500kg kerbweight, the 105bhp 1.4-litre Rover K Series helps the Seven sprint from 0-62mph in 6.5 seconds and on to 110mph. But there’s even more fun to be had at lower speeds thanks to the car’s balance. There’s not much grip, but the detailed feel through the wheel gives the confidence to adjust your line with the accelerator, and you really have to rev it to extract the maximum due to the small capacity.
Cocooned in the tight cockpit, you’ll soon realise ergonomics have never been Caterham’s strong point, but with a heater and a heated windscreen, there’s enough to keep you comfortable until you find that perfect road.
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