| New sportscar | Caterham Superlight R500 |

In the world of extreme, fast Caterham 7s, there's a new leader: the Superlight R500. Based on the existing R400, the new car sheds even more weight to come in at a featherweight 506kg, which is enough to see the R500 cover 0-60mph in 2.88 seconds.

Thinner aluminium body panels, extensive use of carbon fibre and no unnecessary luxuries pare the weight down, but also helping the performance is a 2.0-litre Ford Duratec engine with 263bhp. A six-speed manual gearbox is standard for the R500, but track day junkies can also order a six-speed sequential 'box for £2,950.

Other options on offer include launch control (£350), a carbon induction airbox (£450) and a race-developed suspension package from the C400 racer for £1,250. All R500s come with keyless ignition and an all-new electronic dashboard.

Much of the bodywork has been adapted from the CSR model, including carbon winglets to increase downforce. There's also a new nosecone vent to help with cooling and aerodynamics, while the clear rear light lenses are there because they just look good.

To cope with the R500's ferocious performance, Caterham fits the car with lightened double wishbone suspension that has a wider track, a limited slip differential and four-pot front brake calipers. The R500 sits on 13-inch alloy wheels with Avon CR500 tyres.

In the cockpit, there are lightweight Kevlar seats and four-point harnesses. A Momo steering wheel can be removed for easier entry and exit, and the steering wheel also has integrated indicator switches fitted.

All Superlight R500s will come with a numbered plaque on the dash. Prices start at £36,995 and the R500 is available now.

Alisdair Suttie - 14 Apr 2008