More Caterhams for Christmas

British traditionalist sports car specialist Caterham is doing the unlikely in these difficult times by broadening the range of models on offer in Australia -- threefold.

Previously only available in one form -- the Caterham Seven SVR 200 - the bare-bones Lotus Seven style racecar-roadcar has apparently been unaffected by progress: no doors, no roof -- although there is a tonneau cover - no air-conditioning and British four-cylinder engines. If you loved the 1960s, then you'll feel you've time-warped all the way back there.

And now it's possible to select from not just one, but three models -- including an entry-level version that pares the opening price to as low as $69,850.

Obviously not for your sensitive new-age sports car driver, the Caterham offers a true in-your-face experience on the road, and a delightful racecar experience on the track.

The new arrivals mean there's a new model: the top of the tree CSR 200, which is priced at $129,000 and is more track focused than either the original SVR 200 or the newly-introduced entry level SVR 120.

The CSR 200 gets a hand-built, dry-sumped 147kW Ford Duratec-based Cosworth 2.3-litre engine, along with track-friendly items like adjustable suspensions and race-spec front brakes.

The CSR 200's front suspension is mounted inboard for better aerodynamics, while the independent rear suspension differs from the semi-independent De Dion systems used in the SVR 200 and SVR 120. For track use, a more powerful 191kW engine is optionally available for the CSR 200.

The now mid-level SVR 200 also uses the Cosworth 2.3-litre engine, developing 147kW and driving through a close-ratio six-speed gearbox, while the SVR 120 is equipped with the latest Ford Sigma 1.6-litre 85kW engine mated to a five-speed manual transmission.

Recommended retail prices:
Caterham Seven CSR 200 $129,000
Caterham Seven SVR 200 $119,000
Caterham Seven SVR 120 $69,850

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