Should be a heavyweight contender on track
A new Superlight R300 has been revealed by Caterham with a 2.0 Ford engine tuned to 175bhp.
Taking its styling cues from the no-holds-barred R500, Caterham’s latest track-focused model features the requisite number of carbon fibre body parts, as well as the R500’s flush button dash and keyless ignition system.
The R300 was first launched in 2002 when it had Rover power. The new version has increased engine performance and chassis developments but remains true to the original car’s winning personality, the company says. It’s also pretty damn quick, with an all-up weight of 515kgs giving a power-to-weight ratio of 339bhp per tonne. With a six speed gearbox that’s enough for a claimed 0-60mph sprint time of 4.5secs and a 140mph maximum. Optional extras will include Stack data logging, a dry sump sytem and a limited slip diff.
The new Superlight R300 will cost £24,995 in component form and £27,995 factory built – with deliveries starting in Spring 2009.
The Superlight R300 also has a new sister model which is biased more to road usage but gets the same 175bhp 2.0 litre engine. The Roadsport 175 trades some of the R300’s track features for weather equipment and a heater, while other differences include a set of longer ratio cogs in a five speed gearbox, and 14ins alloy wheels. The Roadsport 175 will cost £21,9995 for DIY completion or £24,995 fully built.