£22k budget what to buy

[4l3x]

I'm in the market for a Caterham for £22k max. It'll be for weekend fun not too many long trips so not worried about the padded seats etc. So, this puts me solidly in line for R300 or Superlight R, but rules out R400 and higher along with newer models. Not concerned about age, only condition and don't want to wait for months for it to sell if it I decide to do so say in 12 months (which really rules out any hugely modified "lower" model cars at this price level) I'm not "saving it for the next guy" but I want to know what the best experience I can get for this price point is without overpaying or buying something too long in the tooth (you dont see many for sale over 50k miles for example...)

Its hard to get a handle on what to choose as everything that sells and comes up or sticks around for months is all so different, so my question really is - which is the most desireable model of Superlight R or R300 around this price range? Are there any "must have" spec items that future owners will look for and what is the point at which mileage really becomes a factor (or does it not for these cars e.g. 20k miles or 40k miles not matter?) Are "ex Caterham demonstrator" something to steer clear of or doesnt this matter so much in the Caterham world?

Edited by 4l3x on Monday 22 August 18:55