2000 CATERHAM SEVEN R500 SUPERLIGHT

KEY FACTS

• Sought-after example of the lightweight sports car with supercar-baiting acceleration.
• Weighing in at just 470kg, this R500 Superlight is powered by a 230bhp 1.8-litre inline-four engine driving the rear wheels through a six-speed manual transmission.
• Having been owned by the vendor for the last five years, the car has mainly been in long-term storage off the road. Prior to being listed here, the car was given a major recommissioning service.

EQUIPMENT AND OPTIONS

• The R500 Superlight was the first ‘extreme’ version of the Caterham Seven. Its 1.8-litre K-series engine was tuned by Minister Racing Engines to 230bhp, which gave it incredible outright. It topped numerous 0-100-0mph tests in period, beating the likes of the Pagani Zonda and Ferrari Enzo.
• Its equipment includes a carbon-fibre dashboard, composite bucket seats with OMP safety harnesses, emergency cut-off switch, and a heated windscreen.
• Included with the vehicle is the invoice for the most recent service along with the V5C document.
• Appropriate registration ‘R500 JCA’ is included in the sale.

CONDITION

• The paint is in very good condition, though there is the usual smattering of stone chips along with a few blemishes from track day use.
• The magnesium alloy split-rim wheels would benefit from refurbishment.
• The cockpit is spartan in its nature, though it presents in very good condition throughout with no noticeable marks or damage.
• All the electrical systems and switchgear work as they should, except the fuel gauge which is faulty.
• The most recent MOT test was on 6 May 2021 at 17,041 miles, which resulted in a clean pass with no advisories or defects.
• The most recent maintenance was carried out by approved Caterham service agent Kendrick Motors after the vehicle was removed from long-term storage, which comprised a major service with a spend of around £3,500. Four new Avon tyres are fitted.

SUMMARY

Offering pure, unadulterated driving thrills, the Caterham Seven R500 Superlight has incredible performance and beautifully direct handling. This example has been cared for throughout its life and used as Caterham intended, and would make a fantastic track day entrant or weekend toy for anyone seeking a no-frills experience.

The description of this auction lot is, to the best of the seller's knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Collecting Cars requests a range of detail about the lot from the seller, and performs a level of due diligence. However, bidders must satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description, and conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to a bid. Please see our Terms and Conditions for full details.

All UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Collecting Cars are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and has no finance owing.