Bottom Line Up Front
Daniel Goodison has logged 10,000 miles on his 220bhp Caterham Seven Superlight R – a 485 kg road‑and‑track car that drives like a motorcycle.
Caterham Seven Superlight R Review – 220bhp, 485kg Beast with 10k Miles
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Image: Caterham Seven Superlight R Review – 220bhp, 485kg Beast with 10k Miles – Performance Comparison and Specifications
Design & Looks
The Seven Superlight R is stripped to the bare essentials. No side windows, no windscreen, and a single‑seat layout keep weight at a minimum. The chassis is a kit‑built frame that the original builder photographed at every stage. Because the car has no roof, rain can splash into the cabin during cornering, but the open‑air feel is part of the appeal.
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One quirky detail is the removable steering wheel – a requirement of Daniel’s insurance policy. He takes it off when the car is parked, then refits it before each drive, adding a small ritual to the whole experience.
Performance & Mileage
The heart of the car is a 1.8‑litre Rover K‑Series engine, tuned to 220bhp and limited to 7,500 rpm for street use (8,400 rpm on track days). It pushes the 485 kg chassis from 0‑60 mph in 3.5 seconds and reaches 100 mph in just over 8 seconds.
Despite its raw nature, the Seven can cover long distances. Daniel recently drove from Blandford Forum to Doncaster, then down to Snetterton and back, covering roughly 1,200 miles in a single day and still arriving at 2 am. The ride is loud, the seat is unpadded, but even with back problems he reports no pain during marathon trips.
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Braking is adequate for its size – the car uses a big‑brake upgrade, though the discs are still small compared with typical road cars. The rear de Dion axle is due for replacement due to some play, but overall reliability has been strong.
Key Performance Specs
| Engine | 1.8 L Rover K‑Series (VHPD) – 220 bhp |
|---|---|
| Mileage | 10,000 mi added (total ~28,000 mi) |
| Price | Approx. £30,000 (used market, varies by condition) |
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Price & Rivals
The Seven Superlight R sits in a niche market of lightweight, driver‑focused cars. Its price is lower than most modern sports cars but higher than a standard Caterham Seven because of the extensive performance upgrades. Rivals include the Lotus Elise and the Ariel Atom, both of which offer similar power‑to‑weight ratios but come with more creature comforts.
If you crave an experience that borders on motorcycling, the Seven Superlight R delivers unmatched engagement. The trade‑off is the lack of weather protection and everyday practicality.
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FAQ
What is the mileage of Daniel Goodison’s Caterham Seven?
He has added 10,000 miles to the car, bringing the total to about 28,000 miles.
Is the Caterham Seven Superlight R worth buying for track days?
For drivers who want a pure, lightweight car with motorcycle‑like feel, it offers excellent performance at a reasonable used‑car price.
How fast can the Caterham Seven Superlight R accelerate?
It does 0‑60 mph in roughly 3.5 seconds and reaches 100 mph in about 8.2 seconds.
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Join the Conversation
What do you think about driving a car with no windows or padded seat? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Source: Read Official News
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