Highlights
- Just 27,405 miles from new
- Powered by the venerable 1.6-litre DOHC 16 valve K-series engine
- Presented in very good condition for its age
The Appeal
If you want to experience driving in its purest, most fundamental form, you need a Caterham 7.
Originally built by Lotus and the brainchild of founder and engineering genius Colin Chapman, the 7 epitomises the benefit of a lightweight, pared back chassis. It’s fair to say this is a car you couldn’t simplify further, or indeed, make it any lighter.
Presented in very good and exceedingly original condition for its age, we’re informed that this S3 Caterham benefits from a recent service and is ready to be enjoyed. It’s covered relatively few miles in its life and has clearly been looked after really well.
The History and Paperwork
- MOT valid until June 2023
- The vendor informs us that it benefits from a recent mechanical service
- Desirable cherished registration
- V5C present
- Five previous owners
- Accompanied by a collection of old MOT certificates
- Original ‘Certificate of Newness’, ‘Post-build Inspection Certificate’ and Vehicle Inspectorate paperwork
- Declared as an S3 Super 7 from new
The Interior
- Suitably basic and functional
- Appears to be very original
- Tiny Momo sports steering wheel
- Short-throw gear lever
- The dashboard is in very good order, with no indication of damage
- The original rocker switches have faded somewhat, but the vendor informs us that they all work perfectly
- The instruments read clearly and apparently function correctly
- Four-point harnesses
- The seats display some patination to the squabs, although they’re in very good shape overall
- Basic black floor mats in good condition
The Exterior
- Complete with convertible hood, side screens and full tonneau cover which all present well for their age with some slight fading
- We’re informed that this is the original blue paintwork with a yellow stripe running up the centreline
- We noticed a couple of small dents on the offside rear bodywork, but otherwise, there are very few noticeable blemishes
- The chassis appears solid and there is no mention of corrosion in the MOT history
- We notice a little surface rust on a few components, but nothing that unduly concerns us
- There are of course a few marks to the original paint, but it continues to hold a bright lustre and looks great
- Minilite-style wheels
- A full-size spare wheel is mounted at the rear
- Prominent side exit exhaust with heat shield
- The chrome on the headlamps and rear stone guards looks in good order
- Overall, a very presentable example that remains pleasingly original
The Mechanics
- 1.6-litre DOHC 16 valve K-series engine
- Five-speed manual gearbox
- S3 chassis
- Disc brakes
- We’re informed that it benefits from a recent service
- All the electrics apparently function without fault
- The vendor reports that it drives brilliantly, with no issues apparent
Summary
A Caterham 7 promises an unparalleled level of engagement with the road and you soon find the throttle and handbrake are as useful when turning a corner as the steering wheel.
If you love driving, you simply have to experience one of these little sports cars and this could well be the one that ends up in your garage…
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only. Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.
UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft. It is currently not covered by a finance agreement.
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