Towing a Caterham with a Diesel Clio

[fergus]

Can I do this? I am assuming that the caterham weighs 500kg and that the trailer may be 250kg. If I have a braked trailer, does this still sound like insanity to those that tow cars currently? Will my 65hp be able to cope?

Thanks in advance for the responses.

If this is indeed a sensible idea, can someone lend/hire me a suitable trailer for 1-2 days (during the week - prob in November) to go and collect a car?

[Incorrigible]

There's a guy in the academy this year that used a 205 (I think) as a tow car, he seemd to do OK

OTOH If you want to borrow a trailer, you could borrow nice Range Rover off the same bloke

Let me know if you're interested

[RobM77]

Check your car's manual for the safest towing weight that the Clio will take.

I have a 800kg race car and a Brian James trailer and my Dad's 2 litre Avensis (not very powerful - 120bhp?) used to struggle up some hills, but overall was fine. That's the least powerful tow car I've used.

I would reckon that you'd struggle, but I may be wrong. Do make sure it is safe first though - that is most important.

[gra001]

If you go the Brian James route you will probably find trailer is closer to 350kg. Add all the other stuff.....jerry cans, jack, stands, wheels/tyres and you are talking over the ton. Would be very surprised if Clio would tow that and feel sure Renault specs will show lower braked limit. Remember, if you are stopped you may be taken to a weigh bridge and checked out. Also, if you are involved in accident whilst towing and it can be shown that you are over weight you will be done for that and also insurance could be void. Such a small car towing will also draw attention from the police...................in short, DODGY!!!

[Incorrigible]

Ferg, it's changing from "borrow" to "hire at an extortionate rate"