The cabriolet Caterham Seven 1992 - 2016 year modification 1.8 MT (124 hp)

Engine
Engine type	petrol
Engine capacity, cm³	1795
Boost type	No
Maximum power, hp/kW at rpm	124 / 91 at 5700
Maximum torque, N*m at rpm	165 at 3000
Cylinder arrangement	in-line
Number of cylinders	4
Number of valves per cylinder	4
Engine power supply system	distributed injection
Compression ratio	10.5
Cylinder diameter and piston stroke, mm	80 × 89.3
General information
Brand country	Great Britain
Car class	S
Number of doors	2
Performance indicators
Fuel consumption, l city / highway / combined	12 / 7 / —
Fuel type	Super (95)
Maximum speed, km/h	190
Acceleration to 100 km/h, s	5.9
Sizes in mm
Length	3380
Width	1580
Height	1120
Wheelbase	2230
Ground clearance	100
Front track width	1270
Rear track width	1330
Wheel size	185 / 65 / R15
Suspension and brakes
Type of front suspension	independent, spring
Type of rear suspension	dependent, spring
Front brakes	disc
Rear brakes	disc
Transmission
Transmission	mechanical
Number of gears	6
Drive type	rear
Volume and weight
Fuel tank capacity, l	36
Curb weight, kg	550
Trunk volume min/max, l	75
Gross weight, kg	860

The Caterham Seven: A Timeless British Icon

The Caterham Seven is a legendary British sports car that has captivated enthusiasts since its inception in 1992. Known for its minimalist design and exhilarating driving experience, this cabriolet is a true embodiment of the "less is more" philosophy. With a production run spanning over two decades, the Seven has cemented its place as a classic in the automotive world. Its lightweight construction, rear-wheel drive, and manual transmission make it a purist's dream, offering a raw and unfiltered connection between driver and machine.

Performance and Engineering

Under the hood, the Caterham Seven is powered by a 1.8-liter inline-4 petrol engine, delivering 124 horsepower and 165 Nm of torque. This modest power output is more than enough, thanks to the car's featherlight curb weight of just 550 kg. The result is a blistering 0-100 km/h acceleration time of 5.9 seconds and a top speed of 190 km/h. The six-speed manual transmission ensures precise gear changes, while the rear-wheel-drive setup provides a thrilling, tail-happy driving experience. The car's suspension system, featuring independent front and dependent rear springs, strikes a perfect balance between agility and comfort.

Design and Practicality

The Caterham Seven's design is a nod to its racing heritage, with a compact body measuring just 3380 mm in length, 1580 mm in width, and 1120 mm in height. Its cabriolet body type allows for an open-air driving experience, perfect for sunny days on winding roads. Despite its small size, the Seven offers a surprising amount of practicality, with a trunk capacity of 75 liters and a fuel tank that holds 36 liters of super (95) fuel. The car's ground clearance of 100 mm ensures it can handle a variety of road conditions, while its 15-inch wheels provide excellent grip and stability.

Key Features and Specifications

Engine: 1.8L inline-4 petrol, 124 hp, 165 Nm torque
Transmission: 6-speed manual, rear-wheel drive
Acceleration: 0-100 km/h in 5.9 seconds
Top Speed: 190 km/h
Fuel Consumption: 12 L/100 km (city), 7 L/100 km (highway)
Dimensions: 3380 mm (L) x 1580 mm (W) x 1120 mm (H)
Weight: 550 kg (curb), 860 kg (gross)
Trunk Capacity: 75 liters
Fuel Tank: 36 liters
Wheels: 185/65 R15

Pros and Cons

The Caterham Seven is a car that appeals to those who value driving purity over modern conveniences. Its lightweight construction and manual transmission offer an unparalleled driving experience, making it a favorite among enthusiasts. However, its minimalist design means it lacks many of the comforts and safety features found in modern cars. The open-air cabriolet design is perfect for sunny days but may not be ideal for all weather conditions. Additionally, the car's small size and low ground clearance may limit its practicality for everyday use.

Conclusion

The Caterham Seven is a car that transcends time, offering a driving experience that is both raw and exhilarating. Its lightweight design, powerful engine, and manual transmission make it a joy to drive, while its compact dimensions and open-air design add to its charm. While it may not be the most practical or comfortable car on the market, it more than makes up for it with its sheer driving pleasure. For those who appreciate the art of driving, the Caterham Seven is a true masterpiece.