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2002 Caterham Seven Superlight R300

2002 Caterham Seven Superlight R300

2002 Caterham Seven Superlight R300

Fans of the Seven’s unique shape and style will now choose from four models. The Classic continues to provide entry-level access to Seven motoring, whilst the latest Roadsport, Superlight and SV models will be based around three new engine variants.

At the heart of Caterhams new product line-up will be the proven MG X Power engine, a pairing that forms the backbone of an exciting new business and marketing partnership with MG Rover Holdings Ltd. MG’s British designed and built X Power engines will be available in four high performance outputs – 140bhp, 160bhp, 200bhp and 230bhp – to power Caterham’s road cars and its 500 plus race cars now competing around the world.

New for the road in 2002, the Superlight R300 represents the core values of the 21st Century interpretation of the Seven. Delivering a potent 300 bhp per tonne, the R300 skilfully mates the new 1.8 MG X Power engine to a minimalist lightweight chassis. The result is a wonderfully balanced example of British performance sportscar engineering offering a 0-60mph sprint of 4.7 seconds and a top speed of 130mph.

Completing the range of Classic, Roadsport and SV, the Superlight R300 is complemented by the R400 and R500 offering 200bhp and 230bhp from the MG X Power 1.8-litre engine respectively for those seeking the ultimate in power to weight performance.

In Detail

engine MG Xpower Inline-4
position Front Longitudinal
aspiration Natural
valvetrain DOHC 4 Valves per Cyl
displacement 1800 cc / 109.8 in³
power 119.3 kw / 160 bhp @ 7000 rpm
specific output 88.89 bhp per litre
bhp/weight 320.0 bhp per tonne
torque 176.26 nm / 130.0 ft lbs @ 5000 rpm
front brakes Discs
f brake size mm / in
rear brakes Discs
r brake size mm / in
front wheels F 38.1 x 15.2 cm / 15.0 x 6.0 in
rear wheels R 38.1 x 17.8 cm / 15.0 x 7.0 in
steering Rack & Pinion
f suspension Double Wisbones w/Anti Roll Bar
r suspension De Dion Type
curb weight 500 kg / 1102 lbs
transmission 6-Speed Manual
gear ratios 2.69:1, 2.01:1, 1.59:1, 1.32:1, 1.13:1, 1.00:1, :1
final drive 3.62:1
top speed ~209.2 kph / 130.0 mph
0 – 60 mph ~4.7 seconds