Caterham 7 Superlight R500
About
The Caterham 7 Superlight R500 is a roadster that embodies the spirit of minimalist, high-performance driving. Powered by a 2.0-liter petrol engine producing 263 horsepower at 8500 rpm, this car is incredibly quick, with a 0-60 mph time of just 2.8 seconds. It features a 5-speed manual transmission and weighs about as much as a late 1970s F1 Lotus, making it exceptionally agile and responsive. The R500 lacks basic comforts like a windscreen, and its straight-cut gears and clutch produce loud mechanical noises, but these are part of its charm for true driving enthusiasts. Its a car that requires courage and dedication to drive, but for those who are willing to take on the challenge, it offers an unparalleled driving experience.
POPULARITY
- This week: 4 views
- All time: 2044 views
Ex-Showroom Price
N/A
* Delhi. May vary.
Specifications
See full specifications
| Top Speed | 225 |
| Maximum Power | 263 Bhp @ 8500 rpm |
| Maximum Torque | 240 Nm @ 7200 rpm |
| Kerb Weight | 506.00 kg |
Caterham 7 Superlight R500: Pros & Cons
Pros
-
Powerful Engine
(0 of 0 agree)
-
Smooth Acceleration
(0 of 0 agree)
-
Responsive Braking
(0 of 0 agree)
Cons
-
Limited Sales & Service Outlets
(0 of 0 agree)
Our take on this /// Verdict
The Caterham 7 Superlight R500 is an uncompromising, raw, and exhilarating driving machine that caters to a very specific type of enthusiast. This car is not for the faint of heart its a stripped-down, lightweight roadster that prioritizes performance and handling above all else. The R500s 263 horsepower engine, coupled with its minimal weight, makes it incredibly quick, with a 0-60 mph time of just 2.8 seconds. However, this comes at the cost of comfort and practicality. The absence of a windscreen, the loud mechanical noises, and the challenging ingress and egress make it a car that youll either love or hate. For those who crave the pure, unadulterated joy of driving, the R500 is a dream come true, but for others, it might be too extreme.
Price
In India, the Caterham 7 Superlight R500 is a rare and exclusive offering, which reflects in its pricing. The ex-showroom price for this model can range from approximately 50 lakh to 60 lakh, depending on the specific trim and any customizations. Once you factor in taxes, registration, and other on-road costs, the price can easily exceed 70 lakh. This is a significant investment, but for enthusiasts who are willing to pay for the ultimate driving experience, the R500 offers a unique proposition. Its important to note that prices can vary based on import duties, local taxes, and other factors, so its crucial to get a detailed quote from an authorized dealer or importer.
Latest Updates
Thursday, 19 October 2023 03:39 PM
Caterham Cars is celebrating its 50th anniversary, reflecting on its history that includes the production of the Superlight R500, a car known for its extreme lightweight design and powerful engine. The R500 was part of Caterhams legacy in pushing the boundaries of lightweight engineering. I think this milestone highlights the companys commitment to innovation and performance.
Tuesday, 25 May 2021 11:50 AM
The Superlight R500 features a highly tuned engine and extensive use of carbon fibre to minimize weight, resulting in a 0-60 mph time of just 2.88 seconds. This model was produced between 2008 and 2014, with only 175 units made, making it a rare and sought-after car among enthusiasts. I believe its rarity adds to its allure for collectors.
Tuesday, 25 May 2021 05:27 PM
The Caterham Superlight R500 was designed with track use in mind, offering options like track-only suspension packages and a six-speed sequential racing gearbox. These features, combined with its lightweight chassis, make it an ideal car for those who enjoy pushing the limits on the track. I think the attention to detail in its design is what sets it apart.
Tuesday, 25 May 2021 03:34 PM
When the Caterham Superlight R500 was launched, it quickly gained international attention, with many units exported to countries like Japan, Italy, Germany, and France. Its global appeal was due to its unique blend of power and lightweight design. I believe its international popularity speaks to its universal appeal as a performance car.
Tuesday, 25 May 2021 10:25 AM
The Superlight R500s engine, a 2-litre Ford Duratec unit, was tweaked to produce 263bhp, significantly enhancing the cars performance. This engine, combined with the cars minimal weight of 506kg, resulted in an impressive power-to-weight ratio. I think this combination is what makes the R500 so exhilarating to drive.
Tuesday, 25 May 2021 05:00 PM
Caterhams decision to replace the Superlight R500 with the supercharged 620R meant the end of the standard six-speed manual gearbox, a feature many purists loved about the R500. While the newer model may be faster, the loss of the manual gearbox has been lamented by many enthusiasts.
Tuesday, 25 May 2021 06:37 AM
The Caterham Superlight R500s design lineage traces back to the original Lotus 7, which was first introduced in 1957. Over the years, Caterham has continuously updated and improved the design, culminating in the R500s advanced materials and suspension systems. I believe this heritage is a significant part of the cars charm.
Tuesday, 25 May 2021 07:56 PM
For those interested in purchasing a Caterham Superlight R500, prices can vary widely depending on the condition and mileage of the car. Prices range from around £27,000 to £55,000, making it a significant investment for any car enthusiast. I think the price reflects the cars exclusivity and performance.
Saturday, 16 May 2020 03:28 PM
The Caterham Superlight R500, with its 2-litre Ford Duratec engine producing 263bhp, has gained a reputation for its exceptional power-to-weight ratio. However, it has also been noted for its mechanical reliability issues, with some owners reporting frequent breakdowns. This mix of performance and reliability concerns makes it a unique but challenging ownership experience.
Saturday, 16 May 2020 09:51 AM
Despite its performance credentials, the Caterham Superlight R500 is not without its critics. Some owners have reported issues with the cars mechanical reliability, which has led to a mixed reputation among enthusiasts. However, its raw performance and handling capabilities continue to make it a favorite among track-day enthusiasts.
Mileage
Thursday, 21 November 2024 11:39 AM
When it comes to mileage, the Caterham 7 Superlight R500 is not designed with fuel efficiency in mind. With its powerful engine and lightweight construction, it is built for performance rather than economy. You can expect a mileage of around 8-10 kml in city driving and slightly better on the highway, but these figures are highly dependent on driving style and conditions. Running costs will also be higher due to the premium fuel it requires and the potential for higher maintenance costs given its specialized nature.
QUICK FACTS & INFORMATION | |
| Car Type | Roadster |
| Fuel Type | Petrol |
| Top Speed | 225 |
ENGINE & TRANSMISSION | |
| Maximum Power | 263 Bhp @ 8500 rpm |
| Maximum Torque | 240 Nm @ 7200 rpm |
| Engine Details | 2.0 litre |
PERFORMANCE & MILEAGE | |
| 0-100 kmph | 2.88 seconds |
DIMENSIONS & WEIGHT | |
| Kerb Weight | 506.00 kg |
CAPACITY | |
| Seating Capacity | 2 |
BRAKES & SUSPENSION | |
| Brakes | Front Ventilated, Rear Disk |
| Suspension | Superlight Suspension |
WHEELS & TYRES | |
| Alloy Wheels | |
| Tyre Size | R13 |
COMFORT & CONVENIENCE | |
| Steering Adjustment (Rake) | |
| Steering Mounted Controls | |
| Rear AC Vents | |
| Remote Fuel Filler | |
| Steering Adjustment (Reach) | |
| Air Conditioner | |
| Power Steering | Power |
| Rear Defogger | |
| Rear Washer & Wiper | |
| Rain Sensing Wipers | |
| Power Windows | |
| Remote Boot Release | |
EXTERIOR FEATURES | |
| Body Coloured Bumpers | |
| Outside Rear-view Mirrors | Both Side |
| Tinted Glass | |
INTERIOR FEATURES | |
| Sunroof | |
ACTIVE & PASSIVE SAFETY FEATURES | |
| Parking Sensors | |
BRAKING & TRACTION | |
| Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) | |
| Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) | |
| Electronic Stability Program (ESP) | |
| Traction Control | |
LOCKS & SECURITY | |
| Central Locking | None |
INSTRUMENTATION | |
| Trip Distance | 2 |
| Tachometer | |
LIGHTING | |
| Xenon Headlamps | |
| Front Fog Lights | |
| Darkness Sensing Headlamps | |
| ORVM Turn Indicators | |
INFOTAINMENT | |
| Music System | Yes |
SEATS & UPHOLSTERY | |
| Leather Seats | Optional |
| Folding Rear Seats | |
| Rear Centre Armrest | No |
| Driver Seat Adjustment | Manual |
Discussions and Questions Caterham 7 Superlight R500
No answers found for Caterham 7 Superlight R500.
Similar Cars You May Like
Cars With Features Similar to Caterham 7 Superlight R500
Caterham 7 Superlight R500 Media Resources
Links to Most Popular Images, Infographics and Videos
Featured Caterham Comparisons
Recently Added Comparisons
Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder Hybrid S vs Hyundai Alcazar Diesel Prestige Executive (7-Seater)
Added 2 months ago
Hyundai Alcazar Diesel Prestige (7-Seater) vs Hyundai Creta Diesel SX Tech
Added 2 months ago
Maruti Super Carry Diesel vs Mahindra Jeeto Z7 Petrol
Added 3 years ago
User Reviews for Caterham 7
Reviews Submitted by Maxabout Community
Be the first to write a review for Caterham 7 Superlight R500
Submit your Review
Caterham 7 Superlight R500 Discussion
Post a Comment