A new Caterham Superlight goes on sale this October, with obsessive commitment to weight reduction leading to an options list that includes windscreen, heater and carpets. The extensive list also states the change in weight thanks to the choice of certain options, allowing the customer to choose his compromise between comfort and trackday lap times.
At £19,995 (for partial built, or £22,450 fully built), the Caterham Superlight does not come cheap, but its performance should be nothing short of breathtaking. Powering the Superlight is a 1.8-litre version of the venerable K-series, putting out 140bhp and an equally respectable peak torque figure of 124lb.ft. In its lightest format, the Superlight has the power-to-weight ratio to rival many junior supercars, hence the claimed 0-60mph time of less than 5 seconds.
Straight-line speed is all very well and good, but the Superlight has been designed to offer just as many thrills in the corners, hence the fitment of lightweight 13-inch alloys wrapped in Avon CR500 tyres, biased towards track use. The 'wide-track' suspension is standard, fitted with adjustable spring platforms and the front discs have been uprated to 254mm ventilated items grabbed by four-pot alloy callipers.
The standard specification includes composite race seats and wind deflector (more kg can be shaved by specifying carbon fibre replacements), an anti-cavitation oil tank, and a carbon fibre dash panel and front wings. Track options include a limited slip differential, full dry sump lubrication and a roll bar. You could also have a windscreen, leather seats and a heater, but what's the point in buying a Superlight and then turning it into a regular 7?
Shane O' Donoghue - 25 Aug 2005