Caterham 7 Superlight R500 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.