Caterham broadens its net

CATERHAM Cars Australia (CCA) has announced an expanded model range for 2009, comprising two new models in addition to the Seven SVR 200, which has been available here since 2006.

Like the SVR 200, the entry-level Caterham Seven SVR 120 and top-shelf CSR 200 come with full Australian Design Rule compliance.

At $129,000, the new CSR 200 flagship costs $10,000 more than the pre-existing SVR 200 ($119,000) and is powered by the same hand-built 147kW 2.3-litre Duratec engine featuring Cosworth internals, cylinder-head, inlet manifold and ECU, plus a lightweight flywheel, dry-sump lubrication and close-ratio six-speed manual transmission.

As Caterham’s ultimate Seven for Australia, however, the CSR features an entirely new suspension system that makes it better suited for racetrack use and gives it a higher top speed.

The SCR’s front suspension is mounted inboard, combining with more aerodynamic front guards to produce less drag and more downforce. Fully independent rear suspension, meantime, works in conjunction with wider rear wheels and tyres to increase lateral grip, making the CSR 200 a quicker circuit car than the SVR 200.

For serious track-goers, a more powerful 191kW version of the Cosworth four is available.

At the other end of the Caterham model range is the less expensive new Seven SVR 120 variant, powered by Ford’s new 85kW 1.6-litre Sigma four-cylinder. Euro 5 emissions-compliant, the all-aluminium Ford engine is mated to a five-speed manual transmission as standard.

Both SVR models feature the laser-welded SV chassis, which is 110mm wider and 80mm longer than the smaller original Caterham Classic models, meets latest ADR seatbelt and occupant safety regulations, and delivers more interior space and a larger boot and fuel tank.

According to CCR, the “R” in the name indicates the SVR and CSR are also based on European Roadsport models, which were designed from the outset for normal road use.

While CSR is based on the larger SV chassis and employs revised suspension, both SVR models feature traditional (adjustable) outboard suspension, including Caterham’s proven De Dion semi-independent rear-end with adjustable anti-roll bar, along with exposed front wheels “cycle guards”.

Australian-specification models are fitted with more equipment than UK models and come standard with a heating/ventilation system, a heated windscreen, leather-bound steering wheel, polished gear knob, tonneau cover, full interior trim, alloy wheels, four-wheel disc brakes and a roll-over hoop.

Avon CR500 tyres on 15-inch alloy wheels, a six-speed gearbox, ventilated AP Racing front brake calipers and a carbon-fibre dashboard are optional on the base SVR 120. The SVR 200 gets upgraded “race-spec” ventilated front brake discs and the option of a limited-slip differential.

However, all models come with a “black pack” comprising matt black-finished headlights, windscreen frame, wipers and exhaust guard, plus carbon-fibre sill and rear guard protectors and charcoal-coloured cloth trim.

Full-leather protection accessories are also available at no extra cost, including a soft-top and side-screens.

A host of options, many aimed at hard-core circuit-goers, is available for all Caterham models, including a “track day” roll-over hoop with extra diagonal bracing, black and red leather trim and a spare wheel/tyre carrier (not available for the CSR).

As with the original Caterham Seven, body paint is optional on all models, with standard models delivered with an unpainted aluminium body. Six colours are available for the fibreglass nose-cone and guards: orange, green, black, blue, yellow and red.

The 2009 Caterham Seven range is now available for order through CCA (www.caterhamcars.com.au), which like Morgan Cars Australia is part of the Melbourne-based Zagame Automotive Group.

2009 Caterham roadster pricing:
Caterham Seven CSR 200	$129,000
Caterham Seven SVR 200	$119,000
Caterham Seven SVR 120	$69,850