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Lighter Seven

Caterham has launched a stripped-out version of of its new CSR model. Powered by a 2.3-litre Cosworth-developed four-cylinder engine that pumps 256bhp through a 565kg car, the CSR260 Superlight musters 465bhp per ton, enough to sling it from standstill to 60mph in a claimed 3.1sec.

05th June 2006

With no proper windscreen, carpets, heater or hood, and boasting carbonfibre mudguards and facia, the new Superlight weighs in 25kg lighter than the standard 260CSR. Other purist touches include a quicker steering rack, limited slip diff and (for the first time) Dynamic Suspensions dampers tuned to deliver keener handling. As ever with lightweight Caterhams you pay more for weighing less - £37,995 fully built - while the options list includes enticing items like a dry sump, trackday roll-over bar and fire extinguisher.

Meanwhile, after 15 years of K-series power, Caterham is to adopt Ford engines for the entire Seven range following the demise of Rover and the exhaustion of remaining stock. Caterham already uses Cosworth-developed Ford powerplants for CSR models and the forthcoming Superlight R400, and these will now be joined by a tuned version of the 1.6-litre'Sigma' unit, also known as the Zetec-SE, as used in the Focus. Sales will start early next year.