A new Strange Direction for Caterham Cars!!

[nigelpugh7]

http://www.caterhamtechnology.com/news/2013/suzuki...

Not really sure where CC are heading with this?

I wonder what gearbox it will use, and how they have approached reverse gear if its a motorbike style gearbox?

[nigelpugh7]

nigelpugh7 said:

http://www.caterhamtechnology.com/news/2013/suzuki...

Not really sure where CC are heading with this?

I wonder what gearbox it will use, and how they have approached reverse gear if its a motorbike style gearbox?

sorry should have mentioned it does state its a Suzuki 5 Speed Box, so what about reverse?

[framerateuk]

I imagine it would still have a reverse gear. You never count reverse as a gear in it's own right. (I assume it's a car, not a bike engine).

[nigelpugh7]

framerateuk said:

I imagine it would still have a reverse gear. You never count reverse as a gear in it's own right. (I assume it's a car, not a bike engine).

Yes lets hope it is one from Suzuki Cars/Small Truck Division, and gearbox from the same type too!!

I just hope its not a bike engine though!!

[chris_speed]

Great idea. Well done Caterham!

[bonesX]

No mention of actual weight savings?

[MKnight702]

Looks to me like a newer version of a Suzuki Cappuccino engine and gearbox.

The original Cappuccino was a blast to drive, limited to 88mph or not. IIRC EVO magazine still rate the car as one of the best ever drivers cars.

Can see how this engine in a Caterham would be fun, plus the emissions will help them meet the stupid Euro targets.

[e21jason]

It's a jap K class engine and box, engine is probably from the wagon R
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Suzuki_Wagon_R
the same engine type is used inline in the Jimmy with a conventional type rwd box, so I that's what the box will be based one

Only about 68 bhp out of the box but can be tuned for a lot more

[CanAm]

Quote "a re-engineered chassis, which also harks back to the spirit of former Sevens with major revisions to the suspension layout."
A live axle? (used in many small Japanese vans)

[jamiebae]

Very interesting idea, as above it will be a kei engine and likely to be tuned to produce a good bit more than the limit which is permitted in Japan.

I expect it'll end up at circa 100bhp, and with the right exhaust and induction combo will sound fantastic!

[framerateuk]

I would guess around 100bhp as this would be a suitable replacement for the Classic.

Could be a right laugh if it's light enough! Since they say it's the lighest Seven ever, that should be pretty decent!

[ewenm]

Doesn't seem like a strange direction to me. Keeps the basic 7 cheap, efficient and a good entry point to ownership.

[allen l]

What's the weight of that engine? Personally I think I'd like it for the backroads.

[HustleRussell]

It's an aluminium block... The Eco-boost is Iron. It's a lightweight engine and it's also very short- they'll be able to mount it waay behind the front axle. I anticipate that this will handle well, and with it's weight being so low I think it'll be just as quick as any other 'classic' model.

[pikeyboy]

I think this has the potential to be a real gem, and thats before people wind the boost up.

[EndingCredits]

It would be strange if it were only 64-8bhp as Kei-car power output is limited by regulations so there's generally room for improvement.

With regards to the K6A have a read here:

http://www.cappuccinosport.com/section/projects/ac...

[quote]We are now playing with some new K6A engines which develop over 115bhp strait from the box and about 190bhp with the right tuning and near 300bhp with a bit more tuning.
[/quote]

Now I don't know how reliable this information is, but I gather that 100bhp is pretty easy from a K6A.

Also, don't forget the other suzuki engined sports Kei!

[paulhope]

I can't believe this. I used to own a Cappuccino and my first thought at reading the article was "Cappuccino engine". So, three weeks after I get my Seven they announce they are putting the engine from my old car in it (or a very similar engine). What are the chances.

Anyhow, I can report that in standard (other than panel filter) Cappuccino form those supposed 63bhp felt really quite strong. A very burbly/bubbly engine with nice torquey midrange which revved like hell and never felt strained. Moreover, the gearbox was slick and it made a lovely noise too. It will sound even better in a Seven. It should be a hoot.

Paul

[Batwing 7]

Fraser Cars in NZ made some Kei powered 7s years ago - apparently they were an absolute blast to drive. I think they were actually for the Japanese market....

[sam919]

nigelpugh7 said:

I just hope its not a bike engine though!!

Why?

[coppice]

Well that came out of the left field - we knew we were promised something different and this package is certainly that. I am sure the car will be an utter blast to drive and should sound terrific. Eat your heart out Morgan 3 wheeler pilots I reckon. Exactly what Caterham should be doing to balance the bonkers(in a good way ) and increasingly unaffordable top end stuff. It may be worth reflecting on the fact that the original Elise established a brilliant reputation with 118bhp in a bigger and heavier car than this little gem; bet they don't do an SV version though ...

Edited by coppice on Tuesday 6th August 07:25