donnellyautomotive.co.uk

British sports car creator Caterham Cars has introduced three brand new additions to its existing range of iconic sports cars.

The new models in the Seven range include the 270, 360 and 480 and are now all available to buy in the UK. By introducing these three new variants Caterham has simplified its range to comprise of five core models. In addition, all Caterham Sevens can now be specified with brand new ‘S’ or ‘R’ equipment packages.

The three new vehicles will sit between the existing entry-level Seven 160 and the range topping supercharged 620R – the most powerful production Seven ever built.

Launched in 2013, the Seven 160 embodies the pioneering spirit of early Sevens with its compact 3-cylinder engine and live-axle rear suspension. Next up is the new 270 model, powered by the latest-generation 1.6 Ford Sigma engine with variable-valve timing technology and offering a 10bhp power upgrade from the outgoing Roadsport 125 it replaces.

Sitting in the middle of the range is the Seven 360, which runs the same 2.0 Ford Duratec power unit as Caterham’s flagship R300 race cars, offering the perfect balance between road and race track.

The next model in the line-up is the Seven 420, which features a dry sump and is also powered by the 2.0 Ford Duratec, although has been modified to produce 210bhp. Topping the range, is Caterham’s 620R, which also runs a finely-tuned 2.0 Ford Duratec that pumps out an extreme 310bhp and reaches 0-62mph in 2.8 seconds.

The firm has also introduced two brand new equipment packages, which are available on all models. The new ‘S’ and ‘R’ packs offer specially-tailored trim and equipment packages to suit both road and track drivers.

The ‘S’ pack is geared towards the casual road driver and includes creature comforts such as a fully-carpeted cockpit, full windscreen, hood and side screens and leather seats. Meanwhile, the ‘R’ pack is more track-focused, whilst retaining its road car status by offering limited-slip differential, sports suspension and a four-point race harness.

The ‘R’ pack also offers 15” Orcus alloy wheels, which have been exclusively designed for Caterham and are 10% lighter than the outgoing 15” alloy wheel.  In the cockpit, the unique ‘R’ rev-counter has been orientated to optimise it for use at high rpm. For customers with pure track driving in mind, a 13” alloy wheel is available as an option with the ‘R’ pack; customers choosing this option will also benefit from an upgraded suspension geometry set-up to ensure the ultimate in race track handling.

For more info on the new cars see //uk.caterhamcars.com/cars

 

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Padraig Mallett is a professional motor journalist who has written articles for the likes of AOL Cars, Auto Express, carbuyer, Car Dealer Magazine and is also the editor of www.motacarblog.com