2023 Caterham Seven 420R

Highlights

• Excellent example of one of Caterham's best
• 210bhp, 2.0-litre Duratec engine
• 0-60mph in 3.8s
• Low mileage, low owner example
• In excellent condition overall
• Reportedly driving very well
• Advisory-free MOT

Overview

We often hear the term “pure driver's car” bandied about in relation to road-legal track weapons but rarely does it ring as true as with the Caterham Seven 420R. And for a company that's been making thoroughbred racers since the early '70s, the Seven can actually trace its roots back as far as 1957 when Lotus was at the helm - next year will mark the 70th year of continuous production of this specialist lightweight sports car. Quite the accolade.

The model in question came into existence back in the mid-2010s when the 2.0 Duratec engine made its way into the 420R. Paired with a six-speed gearbox and limited slip differential, it provides reliability, durability and low running costs coupled with devastating performance, all the while simplifying the whole process leaving just the pure act of driving to those behind the wheel. And it's an ethos that has endured - if it ain't broke...

The fact that you can enjoy this level of fun and engagement in any car should arguably be illegal but if you're in the market for arguably the most bang for your buck when it comes to automotive thrills then you owe it to yourself to pick up one of these bad boys, with this particular 2023 car being a prime example.

In current ownership for two-and-a-half years by just its second owner, the car retains its original factory specification and comes to market in excellent overall condition. Being the R version this Seven comes with lightweight composite seats with full harnesses, carbon fibre just about everything and a limited slip differential and lightweight flywheel for sideways action on demand. Trust us, this is the spec you want because as they say, go big, or go home.

History and documentation

• 2023 model year
• V5C present and correct in the vendor's name
• First registered 01 Mar 2023
• In current ownership since 18 May 2024
• One registered former keeper
• Advisory-free MOT until 30 Apr 2027
• Stamped service book with entries as follows: Mar 2023(delivery), Jun 2023 @ 1,690 miles, May 2024 @ 3,152 miles, Apr 2025 @ 4,879 miles, Apr 2026 @ 5,978 miles
• Original book pack and two keys
• HPI clear
• London ULEZ compliant
• 6,555 indicated miles
• This car has a finance agreement in place which will be cleared upon a successful auction prior to collection
• The private plate is not included in the sale and the car will revert to its original registration GX23BGE prior to the end of the auction

Interior

• In excellent condition overall
• No signs of any major damage
• Some general wear and tear commensurate with the car's age and mileage, mostly to high traffic areas
• Carbon fibre trim remains in great shape
• Carpets and rubber mats look to be in decent condition
• Carbon dash and seats
• Quick release Momo steering wheel
• Caterham shift indicator
• Four-point harnesses for both seats
• No reports of any electrical issues or problems with any of the switchgear
• Doors and full tonneau cover included
• Engine bay presents well

Exterior

• Described as excellent condition by the vendor
• All panels look to be straight with good alignment
• Pale blue paintwork with orange stripes remains in great shape
• No major damage but there does appear to be a small crease to the offside front panel
• Side exit exhaust is in good condition with no signs of any pitting
• Roll cage looks good
• Roof cover as new, as the vendor tells us that it's never been on the car
• All carbon fibre trim pieces are in good condition
• Windscreen, headlights and indicators appear to be free from any issues
• 13” two-tone alloy wheels present well across the board
• Avon ZZS tyres all round
• Suspension and braking components appear to be in fine fettle

Mechanical

• 210bhp, 2.0-litre Ford Duratec inline four-cylinder engine
• Six speed manual gearbox
• Rear-wheel drive
• 0-60mph in 3.8s
• 136mph top speed
• No mechanical issues to report
• The vendor informs us that the car is very quick and handles very well, starts first time, stops very quickly and sounds very good

Summary

Those that have experienced the sheer visceral capabilities of the 420R will already know what to expect but for those not au fait with such a formidable machine the joy to be had here is practically immeasurable. This is the kind of car that will make you a better driver so point it at the nearest apex and enjoy because let's be honest, life is too short to drive boring cars.

To arrange a viewing, click the 'Book Viewing' button located under the 'Place Bid' button. Viewings can be booked up until the day before the auction ends, after which the option will change to 'Contact Seller' for further enquiries. This seller is located in Dover, Kent.