Trying to figure out what to buy
Discussion
Hi all, I am on the lookout for an S3 Caterham and am trying to understand the options and what to pursue. I've done a fair bit of reading up so hopefully these aren't the same old questions, but sorry if they are.
Realistically my budget is up to £20k , but would rather spend as little as possible to get something suitable. Something older which is akin to the current 270/310S would be ideal.
Questions:
- At what mileage are suspension/drivetrain refreshes something to consider? I've seen some claiming 'full refreshes' under 10k miles, and others with 50k+ miles and no major work apparent. I'd like to think that a non-race car would be good for 30k+ miles without significant work.
- At what age does chassis/bodywork become something to consider, particularly corrosion? I imagine this is a string length question.
- Considering buying privately, are there any key areas to look at? Unsurprisingly, my main fear is chassis damage.
- Are those with passenger-side exhausts noticeably quieter than those on the driver's side? i.e. K vs Sigma
- Ford 1.6s - any pros/cons around Ford or Mazda gearboxes? It doesn't feel like a big factor, but my budget looks to be pushing me towards the Ford box.
Thanks for any input you can offer.
Realistically my budget is up to £20k , but would rather spend as little as possible to get something suitable. Something older which is akin to the current 270/310S would be ideal.
Questions:
- At what mileage are suspension/drivetrain refreshes something to consider? I've seen some claiming 'full refreshes' under 10k miles, and others with 50k+ miles and no major work apparent. I'd like to think that a non-race car would be good for 30k+ miles without significant work.
- At what age does chassis/bodywork become something to consider, particularly corrosion? I imagine this is a string length question.
- Considering buying privately, are there any key areas to look at? Unsurprisingly, my main fear is chassis damage.
- Are those with passenger-side exhausts noticeably quieter than those on the driver's side? i.e. K vs Sigma
- Ford 1.6s - any pros/cons around Ford or Mazda gearboxes? It doesn't feel like a big factor, but my budget looks to be pushing me towards the Ford box.
Thanks for any input you can offer.
Edited by Durch on Tuesday 10th November 16:56
Firstly, moving to Caterham ownership will also move you towards being more 'hands on' mechanically - at least in spirit, if not in the practical sense. These cars are based on a 60 year old design and a lot of what Caterham ownership is about is to stay on top of things. Major overhauls of the engine, gearbox, or suspension, aren't particularly frequent but as these cars tend to last a long time they will need refreshed ever 10 years or so. Most conventional cars tend to be scrapped before they reach this stage.
Corrosion can be an issue but tends to be easy to spot i.e. avoid any car that has spent it's life outside, there's plenty that have been carefully stored in dry garages away from winter salt.
Buying privately is fine. It can be cheaper but may be a little less supported if things are wrong. Personally I would check out the owner as much as the car.
At your budget it is likely to be an older car (nothing wrong with that) and IMHO the Caterham 6 gearbox would be the one to have.
Corrosion can be an issue but tends to be easy to spot i.e. avoid any car that has spent it's life outside, there's plenty that have been carefully stored in dry garages away from winter salt.
Buying privately is fine. It can be cheaper but may be a little less supported if things are wrong. Personally I would check out the owner as much as the car.
At your budget it is likely to be an older car (nothing wrong with that) and IMHO the Caterham 6 gearbox would be the one to have.
Edited by DCL on Tuesday 10th November 17:03
Where are you located ? I found the my regional clubs (L7C and Jock7s) were fantastic for support and camaraderie. You can also lots of questions and look at the different cars/configurations/ages.
I spannered a little, but relied on two local mechanic gurus to do anything big (engine mounts, starter motor). Chassis corrosion is worth watching out for. Also loved my 6 speed g'box ;-)
Good luck - great cars.
I spannered a little, but relied on two local mechanic gurus to do anything big (engine mounts, starter motor). Chassis corrosion is worth watching out for. Also loved my 6 speed g'box ;-)
Good luck - great cars.
Durch said:
...
Questions:
- At what mileage are suspension/drivetrain refreshes something to consider? I've seen some claiming 'full refreshes' under 10k miles, and others with 50k+ miles and no major work apparent. I'd like to think that a non-race car would be good for 30k+ miles without significant work.
- At what age does chassis/bodywork become something to consider, particularly corrosion? I imagine this is a string length question.
...
These things depend on how the car is used and looked after.Questions:
- At what mileage are suspension/drivetrain refreshes something to consider? I've seen some claiming 'full refreshes' under 10k miles, and others with 50k+ miles and no major work apparent. I'd like to think that a non-race car would be good for 30k+ miles without significant work.
- At what age does chassis/bodywork become something to consider, particularly corrosion? I imagine this is a string length question.
...
I gave mine full attention at 12yrs old but it was heavily used to that point in all weathers and there was blistering on the side skins etc. Many cars will never see winter and will be washed more than driven. They may never need attention on this stuff.
Caterhams are light so not heavy on the usual components. Parts are also relatively cheap as and when things need doing. And they are also very simple. Try several cars and you will spot a dog a mile off.
Durch said:
...
- Considering buying privately, are there any key areas to look at? Unsurprisingly, my main fear is chassis damage.
...
Corrosion and general condition. Servicing records and bills. Get friendly with local owners and they will help you find a good one.- Considering buying privately, are there any key areas to look at? Unsurprisingly, my main fear is chassis damage.
...
Durch said:
...
- Are those with passenger-side exhausts noticeably quieter than those on the driver's side? i.e. K vs Sigma
/quote]
Don't let this drive your decision.
Biggest difference is that it's the passenger who burns their leg getting out and not you
Your budget will get you a nice Superlight or Superlight R. Probably and R300 too. You cannot go wrong with these IMO.
Gearbox - of you go K-series you must get a 6spd.
- Are those with passenger-side exhausts noticeably quieter than those on the driver's side? i.e. K vs Sigma
/quote]
Don't let this drive your decision.
Biggest difference is that it's the passenger who burns their leg getting out and not you
Durch said:
... Ford 1.6s - any pros/cons around Ford or Mazda gearboxes? It doesn't feel like a big factor, but my budget looks to be pushing me towards the Ford box.
Very biased here but I still think the K-series is an ideal engine for a 7 and takes some beating even compared to modern engines. Light, easily tuned, revvy, sound great (on throttle bodies).Your budget will get you a nice Superlight or Superlight R. Probably and R300 too. You cannot go wrong with these IMO.
Gearbox - of you go K-series you must get a 6spd.
mr momo said:
Where are you located ? I found the my regional clubs (L7C and Jock7s) were fantastic for support and camaraderie. You can also lots of questions and look at the different cars/configurations/ages.
Thanks. I'm in London, and see there are/were some reasonably local get togethers for other idiots who think it's a good idea owning a Caterham in the capital. It looks like I need to become a member of L7C to post in the forums, however.Durch said:
Thanks. I'm in London, and see there are/were some reasonably local get togethers for other idiots who think it's a good idea owning a Caterham in the capital. It looks like I need to become a member of L7C to post in the forums, however.
You do - this was implemented a while ago now.I've not been on there since, but have just opened up my membership again (or at least think I have!). May not last, but will see - expecting it to potentially be useful during my recommissioning
DoubleD said:
Why? You could easily be missing out. Its free and easy to do.
Part of me understands it. I hate the likes of Facebook and Twitter.That said, the wheels I just bought were only advertised on that group...
I'd still rather not use it though.
DoubleD said:
Why hate it though? Its just a tool. Just look at the Caterham groups and nothing else then its just the same as being on here.
Part of the problem is it's full of tools I'm also not a big fan of Zuckerberg and the overall business model. I have an account and half used it for the wheels purchase (fortunately I had help from here on that - thanks Richard - so it wasn't wholly needed, but it took me time to track down my id). Since then the amount of junk mail I've had from FB seems to have increased.
Anyway, unlikely to need it again so it can go unused for another 15yrs
(Still don't have a Twitter account and never will!).
Murph7355 said:
Part of the problem is it's full of tools
I'm also not a big fan of Zuckerberg and the overall business model. I have an account and half used it for the wheels purchase (fortunately I had help from here on that - thanks Richard - so it wasn't wholly needed, but it took me time to track down my id). Since then the amount of junk mail I've had from FB seems to have increased.
Anyway, unlikely to need it again so it can go unused for another 15yrs
(Still don't have a Twitter account and never will!).
That depends which groups you join. If you stick to caterham ones and specialist groups, there are fewer. I don't get any junk from fb, at all.I'm also not a big fan of Zuckerberg and the overall business model. I have an account and half used it for the wheels purchase (fortunately I had help from here on that - thanks Richard - so it wasn't wholly needed, but it took me time to track down my id). Since then the amount of junk mail I've had from FB seems to have increased.
Anyway, unlikely to need it again so it can go unused for another 15yrs
(Still don't have a Twitter account and never will!).
I am thinking of selling my 2007 50th anniversary S3 (metallic black with gold and silver stripes) I am the the original owner having built the car.
It is not on the market at the moment but would be I think at the lower end of your budget. 125hp sigma, 5 speed.
If you are interested or would like a look (I am in Kent) drop me an email to....... edited
regards Martin.
It is not on the market at the moment but would be I think at the lower end of your budget. 125hp sigma, 5 speed.
If you are interested or would like a look (I am in Kent) drop me an email to....... edited
regards Martin.
Edited by K800 RUM on Saturday 14th November 19:49
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