Driving enthusiasts can’t call themselves enthusiasts without trying this brilliant British creation. No, this isn’t a lotus article. Caterham produces lightweight sports cars that know exactly how to make drivers grin, and they’ve been at it since 1973. Other modern vehicles are restrictive and weighed down by Bluetooth, displays, and creature comforts. Caterham threw those distractions into the factory dumpsters and never looked back. Those who enjoy air conditioning will be disappointed, but it seems like Caterham knows its target demographic well.
It’s also one of the few cars that you can build yourself, like if Ikea produced race cars. The guys at Top Gear built their own Caterham in a time challenge against the Stig. The styling immediately lets us know that it’s not concerned with decoration or deceleration. The exhaust pipe, inches from the driver, is a super-heated reminder of the vehicle’s purpose. Taking a Caterham Super-7 R400 on a trip to the grocery store isn’t adequate. This beast needs to be unleashed on open roads.
The full name of this animalistic go-kart is the Caterham Super-7 Superlight R400, but we’ll sometimes call it by the nickname, R400.
10/10 Tones Of Performance For A Small Price Tag
For the price of a new Toyota, the Caterham Superlight R400 delivers a 0-60 mph time that is only .20 milliseconds slower than a McLaren F1. It’s an entire second faster than a 2006 BMW Z4 M series, though the German car can still brag about having a roof and trunk space. The goal of the Caterham brand is to provide performance with minimal creature comfort, and those savings get passed on to buyers.
The R400 maxes out at 152 mph, and that’s incredible considering how small the car’s footprint is. If you’re wondering what a BMW version of a Caterham would look like, then check out the BMW Z21.
9/10 The Super-7 R400 Handles Like Nothing You’ve Driven Before
While you’re in the Caterham Superlight R400, you’ll be at the same altitude as blades of grass and coffee tables. The low center of gravity and wheel stance allows for enthusiastic cornering at high speed. The Caterham differs slightly from its relative, the Lotus, but exceptional handling is a commonality.
power steering? That isn’t needed in a Superlight R400. Weighing in at a measly 1156 lbs, drivers have no cornering problems without mechanical assistance.
8/10 Prepare Your Neck Muscles For Acceleration
The R400 uses a Ford Duratec engine which pushes it from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.8 seconds. That power, in a car that weighs half as much as a Mazda MX-5, is enough to become a VIP client at a chiropractor. The 4-cylinder engine has enough power to move the lightweight frame with Ferrari-like acceleration.
Some of the Caterham models are changing engines now, because of the Ford Motor Company.
7/10 It’s The Daily Driver Nobody Expected
Caterham Super-7 R400s are surprisingly great daily drivers, with a few drawbacks. The reliable Ford 4-cylinder engine makes this sports car a capable commuter, and the easily-sourced parts are a lifesaver if repairs are ever needed.
Sports cars aren’t always known for prioritizing driver comfort, and neither is Caterham suspension. Keep that in mind when planning your route. Your lower back will thank you.
6/10 Fuel Economy And Speed From A Reliable Engine
The enhancements to the Cosworth-developed Ford power plant in the newer R400 are a major improvement compared to the old R400 engine. Caterham’s updated design produced 152 lbs-ft of torque at 5,750 rpm, and even at 4000 rpm, it makes 16% more torque than its predecessor. The low-end torque could use improvements, but the R400 has a wonderful mid-range.
The 400 in R400 refers to the amount of brake horsepower per ton the model has. 400 is the result of the power the engine produces, divided by the weight in tons.
5/10 Who Doesn’t Love The Wind In Their Hair?
Convertible owners know that driving with the top down isn’t just to draw attention. The driving experience gets enhanced by the blowing of the wind and the risk of bird attacks. It’s about the sun on your face and the view on all sides, unobstructed by neither a frame nor fabric. Trust me, this is unlike any open-top driving experience you’ve ever come close to.
Another thing about convertible owners is that they share a hatred for unexpected rain. Caterhams come with a stowable fabric roof for those surprise showers, let’s hope you can put it up in time!
4/10 Caterham Super-7 R400s Are Fully Focused On The Driving Experience
I’ve seen toy cars with more buttons than Caterham R400s have. The drivers who love these cars are okay with putting away their smartphones and being gadget-free for a while. You won’t find cup holders, a glove box, or a radio, not that you would be able to hear it over the engine.
Caterhams are a way to experience supercar thrills without becoming bankrupt. They’re relatively affordable, and punch way above their performance weight class.
3/10 Your Friends Will Be Smiling From Ear To Ear
Watch fully-grown adults melt with childish glee after you offer them a drive in your Caterham Superlight R400. The go-kart exterior and raw driver experience seem like the perfect blend of car and toy. It’s a car that suits any occasion. Zip across the city for a business meeting without worrying about parking, because the R400 could park inside a New York bathroom. If you’re feeling like an escape, there’s nothing better than taking the R400 and winding through some mountains.
Be cautious, because you might have trouble getting your friends out of the car.
2/10 You’ll Turn Heads Wherever You Park
It doesn’t matter if you have the Superlight R400 or the lovable entry-level Caterham 170, these cars get as much attention as a Lamborghini. Caterham owners have something special, and onlookers will have dozens of questions about it.
You’ll be fending off questions every time you park. What is it? Is it legal? Where do you put your coffee? Smile mysteriously, and tell them you are a professional stunt driver.
1/10 Depreciation Is Slow For All Caterham Models
Caterhams generally hold their value incredibly well, and the Superlight R400 is no different. Caterhams have several differences from Lotuses, but they don’t hold their value quite as well. Expect to see a slow depreciation of roughly 20% over three years.
The Caterham Super-7 Superlight R400 is one of the more expensive and desirable models too, which helps its resale price further down the road.
