Caterham Seven review

• For: Performance, handling, excitement
• Against: Poor practicality, lack of safety kit, quite expensive
• Verdict: Lightweight, fast and utterly focused – a breath of fresh air

Caterham Cars acquired the rights to build and develop the Lotus Seven roadster in 1973. Today, nearly 50 years later, it continues to make raw, uncompromised and driver-focused sports cars from its base in Dartford, Kent.

In many ways, a star rating and third-party review are almost irrelevant – the purchase of a Caterham Seven is driven by a desire to escape the monotony of modern life.

This back-to-basics roadster is a welcome antidote to an era of autonomy, connectivity and driver assistance.

The entry-level Caterham Seven 270 costs £29,290 and is powered by a 1.6-litre four-cylinder Ford engine. It can hit 60mph in five seconds and reach a top speed of 122mph.

The range continues with the 310, then the 360 and 420, both of which are powered by 2.0-litre Ford engines. The range-topping £50,390 Seven 620 adds a supercharger to the mix for some supercar-taming antics. How does 0-60mph in 2.8 seconds sound?

A retro-look Super Seven 1600 recently joined the range, too. With flared front wings, classic chrome accessories and Jenvey throttle bodies for a throaty soundtrack, it’s an appealing package.

Sure, the Caterham lacks modern luxuries and safety features, and it’s woefully impractical. But do you care?

KEY INFO

• Launched: 1973
• Facelifted: N/A
• Due for replacement: TBC