2007 Caterham CSR260 Superlight

(from Caterham Press Release)  In a perfect example of automotive alchemy, Caterham Cars is set to deliver all the driving excitement associated with its stripped-out Superlight versions to the range-topping Caterham CSR260 model, to create the brand new Caterham CSR260 Superlight.

Aimed at the enthusiast, the 2.3 litre Cosworth-powered road legal Caterham CSR260 Superlight brings all the performance credentials associated with its stablemate, like a supercar-humbling 0-60mph time of 3.1 seconds and a licence-losing top speed of 155mph, yet swaps the windscreen, carpet, heater and weather gear for a limited slip differential and a quicker steering rack. Decisively, it also premiers ‘Dynamic Suspensions’ dampers manufactured by MTCe as original equipment for an undiluted performance driving experience.

The result is a breath-taking Caterham experience that blends no frills road legal agility with devastating track capability.

Twenty five kilos lighter than the standard CSR260, this model variant also adds distinctive Superlight styling to the exterior, including a wind deflector, a carbon fibre dashboard and wings, a black powder coated cockpit, quick release MOMO steering wheel and ‘black pack’ that disguises otherwise aluminium detailing.

A natural extension of the CSR range, this Superlight model delivers all the thrills of frantic acceleration, pin-sharp steering, high revving eager performance mated to a close ratio six speed box, in a sportscar that is perfectly balanced to focus the driver solely on driving and smiling.

With a power-to-weight ratio of 460 BHP per tonne, the Caterham CSR260 Superlight finds itself in similar company to the £323,000 Porsche Carrera GT or the £118,000 Ferrari F430.

In a now customary move, Caterham has developed an options list that highlights the cost alongside the weight of items such as windscreen, heater, weather gear, dry sump, track day roll-over bar and fire extinguisher.

Caterham is taking orders now with the first cars delivered in August. Prices start at £37,995 fully built. Visit www.caterham.co.uk for further information.

SPECIFICATION CSR260 SUPERLIGHT

Performance:
Maximum speed: 155 mph / 250 kph
Acceleration 0-60 mph: 3.1 seconds

Construction:
Tubular steel space frame.
Stressed Aluminium Body Panels.
Aluminium honeycomb impact protection.
Glass fibre reinforced plastic nosecone and wings.

Drivetrain:
Front engine rear wheel drive

Weight: Gross 565 kg

bhp per tonne:  460bhp per tonne

Engine:
Number of cylinders - 4 in line
Bore - 87.5 mm
Stroke - 94.0 mm
Swept Volume - 2261 cc
Compression ratio - 12.0:1
Maximum power (DIN) - 260PS / 192kW @ 7500rpm
Maximum torque - 200lb/ft / 272Nm @ 6200rpm
Fuel requirement - Unleaded Gasoline - 97RON / (95RON minimum)
Induction System -Caterham Roller-Barrel port throttles
Cylinder Head - Ported, Matched, Machined Combustion Chambers
Light Weight Cam Cover.
Camshafts - Cosworth Profile, High Lift
Uprated Valve Springs
Spark plugs - NGK BR7EFS
Pistons - Cosworth Forged
Connecting Rods - Bespoke High Strength Steel
Lubrication - Internal, Twin Scavenge Pumps
Combined Bellhousing, Oil Tank and Oil-air Separator tower
Exhaust - Equal Length 4-1 Stainless Steel
Manifold Performance Catalyst - 5” Diameter Silencer, Side Exit.
Engine Management - MBE ECU with Caterham-Cosworth Developed Calibration and Data Logging.