Caterham has released details of the most significant event in its recent history: the launch of a new variant of the Seven, tagged the CSR. Heralding the return of Cosworth engines to the road car scene, the new car looks set to continue the legend of the Seven, and take it to higher levels. The new Cosworth engines, based on 2.3-litre Ford Duratec units offer 200 or 260bhp depending on specification, meaning huge power-to-weight ratios. With both engines complying with Euro 4 emissions levels, the adoption of Cosworth power opens up more export opportunities as well.
The main difference elsewhere centres on the suspension set-up; the familiar front profile has been transformed by the movement of the shocks inboard, while at the rear an all-new fully independent set-up has been adopted. The new suspension configuration with double wishbones all-round promises to endow the Seven with even more handling prowess with higher levels of grip and adjustability on more surfaces.
This new design required revisions to the Seven's tubular chassis as well, leading to more stiffness in the structure. Caterham has taken this opportunity to change the interior layout, trim and fit. Out goes the flat old toggle switched dash and in comes a more modern layout more befitting of a 21st century sports car. The aerodynamics have also been dragged upto date courtesy of the F1-style inboard suspension layout and new cycle wings and nose cone. This new nose cone also allows more effective air management for cooling and combustion.
The new design has been proven on the most challenging circuits in the world and manifests itself throughout the design, nowhere more than in the F3 wheels fitted with bespoke Avon tyres, measuring some 10 inches wide on the rear.
The Caterham Seven CSR goes on sale with prices starting at £27,450 for the
200bhp version and from £33,950 for the 260bhp. This is not cheap for a car that will rarely be used everyday. Caterham seems to think there are enough buyers with the cash. Let's hope they are right.
Dave Jenkins - 26 Oct 2004
