Caterham’s new entry-level Seven 160 (called Seven 165 in mainland Europe), is the brand’s most affordable and least powerful model. With only 80 hp produced from a 0.66-liter turbocharged three-cylinder Suzuki engine, some may dismiss it as underpowered in an era when even the most civilized hot-hatches come very close to or exceed the 200-hp mark.
However, add to the equation the Caterham’s weight of 490 kilograms (1,080 lbs) and you’ll understand why the Seven 160 sprints from 0 to 60 mph (96 km/h) in just 6.5 seconds.
Of course, this type of car is not made for drag racing, so its biggest qualities are the handling and the involvement it offers the driver. The following review from Car Throttle confirms this and adds that the steering is very sharp, the ride is firm “in the manliest sense of the word” and the pleasant engine noise is ever present.
Obviously, the car is a mess from an ergonomic point of view, but that only adds to its charm, according to the reviewer. Watch what else he has to say about the little Caterham in the video below.
By Dan Mihalascu
VIDEO