Caterham CSR
New Seven features state of the art suspension and monstrous performance
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Casual observers of the new 'CSR' won't spot the difference however as the basic shape remains the same, with the major differences being in the design of the suspension.
At the front, F1 style push-rod operated inboard units take the suspension and damping inside the bodywork making for a more aerodynamic design. At the rear is a double wishbone setup which is fully independent. Changes to the chassis to accomodate the new suspension have also resulted in the opportunity to make the chassis a very useful 25% stiffer.
Aerodynamics and cooling (for foreign markets) have played a part in some subtle restyling of the front end of the car. More ducts for the radiator are obvious and the broader nosecone features a small chin spoiler. The cycle wings are mounted closer to the tyres for improved aerodynamics and have a distinctive shoulder behind the wheel.
Under the bonnet, Caterham have opted for a Cosworth Developed 2.3 litre Ford Duratec. It will be offered in two flavours - 200bhp or 260bhp. Importantly the 200bhp version will conform to the EU4 emissions rules, making it easier to export in larger numbers that is the case for existing models.
Inside the cockpit, Caterham have finally looked at the positions of the dials and switches and come up with a more stylish and more driver friendly layout. Gone are the flat mounted switches and dials and in comes a curved fascia. There's even some storage space in the central console and armrest!
Performance is blistering as you'd expect. The headline figures soon to be banded about in the pubs are:
- CSR 200, 0-60mph in 3.7 seconds, top speed 140mph
- CSR 260, 0-60mph in 3.1 seconds and a top speed of 155mph!
Prices are enough to make your eyes water too. The basic 200bhp model goes on sale at £27,450 whilst the 260bhp version will see for £33,950.
the specs can be downloaded from here
200 BHP
www.caterham.co.uk/news/items/Caterham_Seven_CSR_200-v6spec.pdf
260BHP
www.caterham.co.uk/news/items/Caterham_Seven_CSR_260-v6spec.pdf
Can't wait till I can have ago
I also find it surprising that they didn't take the opportunity to use a bell crank or rocker arms to keep the springs and dampers working in a constant plane rather than having them angled and presumably rotating around their lower mounting...
domster said:
I think they made a good fist of it. The interior is difficult to do stuff with as it is so functional and understated as standard. The exposed ali bars look great, and gives it that modern feel. There are even some indicator stalks! Whatever next, an airbag? Well done to the team at Caterham. The only things that look a bit strange are the new cycle wings, but I'm sure they are aerodynamically much better than the older ones. Despite looking slightly odd.
Bollocks, they look crap.
This is a complete sell out by Caterham and I'm glad I've just lost a pile of cash in the now defunct bastard lightweight, not this lardy arsed sell-out monstrosity.
Frankly, Domster, what the hell am I doing talking like this - this is very much your bag.
Traitors!
LexSport said:With the inboard springs and dampers the rotation is reduced to virtually nothing, about 1/10 (if my maths is up to scratch) of the external design
I also find it surprising that they didn't take the opportunity to use a bell crank or rocker arms to keep the springs and dampers working in a constant plane rather than having them angled and presumably rotating around their lower mounting...
And Dom, I quite like the look of the Fury
custardtart said:
Sure they've been developing their product but who hasn't? Caterham need to move on, keep the old styling if you must but lets have some new products. It's all a bit dull from Caterham and with the competition being more innovative and better value they should have a plan B.
I didn't realise PH operated an 'open heretics' policy.
Now, where's my quill & papyrus?
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