Help, what do I need?!

[jameshayward]

Hi fellas,

had a look through previous threads and nothing has really answered my question...

I've always wanted a 7 ever since my dad showed me one when I was 5 years old (to which my response was "but where would mummy sit?!") and I'm now in a position to look more seriously.

I have a budget of £15,000 and can stretch a little more for the right car, however I'm not entirely sure what I am looking for. I went to Caterham south on Saturday and was like a kid in a sweet shop, so much choice!!

So question is with my budget what would you recommend? I am mentally tossing up between a (used) academy car and maybe going racing, an original superlight or maybe a roadsport or similar.

One final drawback is that I am 24 so test driving (at Caterham at least) is not an option for another year, does anyone know of anywhere that I can at least drive one? Last time I drove a 7 I was 15 (under 17 car club) and I was so short I was virtually hugging the wheel!

[GetCarter]

I'm sure lots will chip in with which car you should buy. It really does depend on how much road/how much track driving you are going to do. Having said that, I do only road and have a Superlight!

The one thing I'd mention is that when I organised insurance for my latest 7 the first question they asked was "Are you over 25?" I'd suggest a couple of phone calls to get quotes first, it may influence which car you buy.

Steve

[jameshayward]

I've already had a quote and although not cheap I can get cover. Mainly going to be using it for road use, bit of touring but definitely some track days.

[GetCarter]

My first 7 was a roadsport (140 bhp VVC) great road car, but wasn't too good on track, and as I was doing lots of trackdays I flogged it for a superlight which is much quicker and suited to track. But they are a lot harder over bumpy roads. If you can get to a trackday, most folk will take you out for a lap or two if you ask nicely - that'll give you an idea of the differences.

Steve

[NGee]

jameshayward said:

Hi fellas,

One final drawback is that I am 24 so test driving (at Caterham at least) is not an option for another year, does anyone know of anywhere that I can at least drive one? Last time I drove a 7 I was 15 (under 17 car club) and I was so short I was virtually hugging the wheel!

You could go on a Caterham experience day, the only requirement is that you have a driving licence. Have a look at the Caterham website for more details.
NGee