The right caterham for me?
Discussion
Joehow said:
Yeah did about 18k in three years, it's pretty hardcore though as it's dripping in cup car parts so any potholes etc not good. The 360R I drove felt super comfy compared to the GT3.
I think 420R feels a good bet from what I am told.
Or this would make an excellent plan b....I think 420R feels a good bet from what I am told.
https://www.pistonheads.com/buy/listing/13470263
TommyRS_ said:
Plan A+++++ more like.What a lovely thing!
I think the feedback above is spot on. Duratec cars are very quick, power delivery can be a bit dull at the top end but is improved by the RBTBs. Definitely consider a higher powered Sigma engine car or buy one to convert to Premier Power 175 or above. It is a lighter, freer revving engine and suits the Caterham very well.
Most Caterhams tend to ride well due to the lack of weight but they are hard core in many other respects (noisy, exposed, limited comforts etc.). Cost peanuts to run on track compared to a GT3 and very reliable.
I have a 996 GT3 and a R400 (K series). The power delivery and 6 speed box make it fabulous to drive and the top end ferocity is just as much fun as the GT3. I would recommend a fast K series car but it sounds like you are looking for something newer, in which case I would go for a Sigma engine car and upgrade as and when you feel the need. To be honest, anything over 150 bhp in a Caterham is enough unless you are on very fast circuits and even then the aerodynamics will limit how fast you go. But you will have a lot of fun trying.
Most Caterhams tend to ride well due to the lack of weight but they are hard core in many other respects (noisy, exposed, limited comforts etc.). Cost peanuts to run on track compared to a GT3 and very reliable.
I have a 996 GT3 and a R400 (K series). The power delivery and 6 speed box make it fabulous to drive and the top end ferocity is just as much fun as the GT3. I would recommend a fast K series car but it sounds like you are looking for something newer, in which case I would go for a Sigma engine car and upgrade as and when you feel the need. To be honest, anything over 150 bhp in a Caterham is enough unless you are on very fast circuits and even then the aerodynamics will limit how fast you go. But you will have a lot of fun trying.
This is a very good point. Somehow we seem to have been conditioned to think fast 'hardcore' means stiff as f**k, crashing over everything, yadda yadda. Caterham doesn't do that - there's a lot less mass, so it can be a lot softer. I continue to be pleasantly surprised how nicely it rides anytime I use it on the road.
Don't mistake that for any lack of potential though.
Don't mistake that for any lack of potential though.
Cooperracer05 said:
...
For me, 200bhp, dry sump, 6 speed is perfect for a 7
I agree with this...character of the engine is also important...a revvy 7 is better IMO.For me, 200bhp, dry sump, 6 speed is perfect for a 7
Joehow said:
Yeah dry sump seems vital to me. Mates who properly lean on their 7s tell me 5 speed is more reliable? Thanks pal just message me when free
The 6-speed is fine, but you need to change gear properly. Which means not dragging it across the gate (which screws up the forks). Deliberate changes using the gate pattern is quick enough and helps the life of the box. So after convincing myself I needed a 420R a day with a 310R and a deal that just felt really rather good and I now have a deposit down on a car the same day the GT3 left.
Ex press crayon car which hopefully should get in a couple of weeks. No doubt will go to Premier Power as we want to up the pace l.
Thanks for all the help and advice.
Ex press crayon car which hopefully should get in a couple of weeks. No doubt will go to Premier Power as we want to up the pace l.
Thanks for all the help and advice.
Joehow said:
So after convincing myself I needed a 420R a day with a 310R and a deal that just felt really rather good and I now have a deposit down on a car the same day the GT3 left.
Ex press crayon car which hopefully should get in a couple of weeks. No doubt will go to Premier Power as we want to up the pace l.
Thanks for all the help and advice.
That looks lovely!Ex press crayon car which hopefully should get in a couple of weeks. No doubt will go to Premier Power as we want to up the pace l.
Thanks for all the help and advice.
A Sigma is great fun on track. I've always been dying to get Premier Power to do some work on mine, but the kitchen is being done this year so I'll have to wait my turn .
Gassing Station | Caterham | Top of Page | What's New | My Stuff