Caterham
ActiveOverview
Caterham Cars manufactures specialist lightweight sports cars, primarily variations of the Caterham 7, a direct evolution of the Lotus Seven Series 3 designed by Colin Chapman. Based in the UK, it produces minimalist two-seater roadsters known for their low weight under 500kg and power outputs from 125bhp to 310bhp, with annual production around 500 units. The company maintains a niche position in the British motor industry, emphasizing kit and factory-built options for track and road use.
History
Caterham Cars was founded in 1973 by Graham Nearn, who acquired the rights to produce and develop the Lotus Seven from Lotus, which had ceased production to focus on upmarket models. The company originated from a dealership in Caterham Hill, Surrey, and launched the Caterham 7 as its core model. It remained independent until acquired by Team Lotus in 2011, leading to the formation of the Caterham Group. Key milestones include the 1994 Caterham 21 launch and the 2011 SP/300.R track car with Lola.
Product Lines
| Product Line | Positioning | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Seven 125 | Entry-level roadster | $50,000 - $60,000 |
| Seven 170 | Beginner-friendly lightweight sports car | $60,000 - $70,000 |
| Seven 275 | Mid-range performance roadster | $70,000 - $85,000 |
| Seven 485 | High-performance track-focused variant | $90,000 - $110,000 |
| Seven 620 | Top-tier supercharged power | $110,000 - $130,000 |
| Seven 310R | Race-prepared off-road capable model | $120,000 - $140,000 |
| SP/300.R | Track-only extreme racer | $150,000 - $200,000 |
Manufacturing
All Caterham cars are manufactured exclusively in the UK at their facility in Dartford, England, from start to finish. Production is in-house, focusing on reducing weight and increasing power, with both factory-built and kit options available. A new higher-capacity factory in Dartford supports plans to increase output by 50 percent.
Notable Products
- Caterham Seven - Core model, evolution of Lotus Seven with power from 125-310bhp and weight over 500kg.
- Caterham 21 - 1990s two-seater soft top alternative to MGF and Lotus Elise.
- SP/300.R - Track-only car developed with Lola Cars, launched in 2011.
- Seven 620 - High-performance variant with supercharged engine for maximum power-to-weight.
- Seven 310R - Race model featured in The Grand Tour, modified for off-road use.
Reputation
Enthusiasts praise Caterham for delivering pure driving thrill through its lightweight design, exceptional handling, and adherence to Colin Chapman's 'simplify, then add lightness' philosophy. Professionals note its longevity over 50 years and niche appeal in motorsport via programs like the Caterham Academy, which has trained over 1,000 drivers. Criticisms include the spartan, minimalist nature lacking modern comforts like roll-up windows, limiting mass-market appeal.
Sources (6)
- https://www.zoominfo.com/c/caterham-cars-ltd/16616401
- https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/company/01171408
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Caterham_Group
- https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a70532899/caterham-us-plans/
- https://caterhamcars.com/en/about/company
- https://caterhamcars.com/us/about/history