Caterham Super Seven (01 on) - Review

Review by David Ross on
Last Updated: 05 November 2009
The Caterham 7 has essentially been in production since 1957, and it still looks much the same as it did back then - although not one component remains of the original car. The concept is unchanged too - providing the purest driving experience and the most performance possible for the money. These days you can specify your 7 to suit your intended purposes, be that belting around race tracks or cruising leafy lanes, and you can even have it upscaled so that you'd fit in it properly. But although its advanced over the years, the Caterham is still not a car if you're looking for comfort and offers a back to basics approach. It is hugely involving to drive though and great fun on an open road.
3.5 out of 5

Other Caterham reviews

1.5 out of 5

Safety

Race harnesses will stop you going anywhere in an accident and the chassis is reinforced with aluminium honeycomb but this is low volume, back to basics motoring so there are no airbags, traction control or even ABS. On the plus side, security is good with an immobiliser generally fitted as standard and a steering wheel that is often removable.

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3.5 out of 5

Reliability

Reliability is generally very good thanks to proven mechanicals, high standards of engineering and relative simplicity however home construction is an option and this can affect the final build quality and subsequent reliability.

Car check problem points

Body

No problems reported.

Engine/Gearbox

No problems reported.

Other

No problems reported.