A couple of general questions

[Rsdop]

I've recently lost interest in my current toys, don't have the time or motivation to play around with old cars so looking at a change and really fancy a Caterham.
First question, I've read there isn't much room around the pedals, would this be an issue with size 11 feet?! (Struggled before with small French cars). Second question is do you get more choice and value buying in the winter months? Thanks

[Rsdop]

Thanks for the replies, useful stuff. Hadn't thought of an SV as I'm not that big except the feet! An SV would also limit options as I'm looking towards the bottom of the market where there appear to be more S3 cars. Oakmere aren't a million miles away so think il pop down and see if I can try a couple. Unfortunately I also have really wide feet, not sure if that would be a problem for racing shoes. It's a nightmare trying to get cycling shoes that fit. Any input about if it's worth holding off until the colder months to purchase or do Caterhams not have the convertible effect?

[Rsdop]

Not had a chance to try any out yet, but sounds like plenty of people larger than me manage with the S3. Was thinking of spending 12-15k, not too fussed on engine but this has popped up on the Facebook Caterham page, seems really cheap, is the Vauxhall engine worth considering?

[Rsdop]

Steve Campbell said:

I'd probably do a bit more research on what you want from the car. Each engine has it's pro's & con's and gives the car a different "feel" & "sound". If you are really not bothered, then try and whittle down what you want from the rest of the car.

What are your current toys and why are you bored with them ? What experience do you have with rear wheel drive sports cars ? How will you use it ? Track days ? Sunday pootle ? Long distance touring ? All of this can have a bearing on what might be right for a 1st Caterham for you. Don't ask about colours, the thread will extend to 12 pages as to what's best LOL :-)

Thanks for the reply, I've just sold my XE powered Mk2 Escort. Had a Mk2 RS2000 and a Cosworth previously so not worried with rear wheel drive although not after too much power for the first Caterham! Bored was probably the wrong description but had the Escort 10 years and fancy a change. I plan to use it for weekend blasts, the odd longer trip and maybe the odd track day eventually too so a bit of everything.

Initially I was looking at K series cars although not the 1.4, but the ex race Ford engines are just about in budget, and Sevens and Classics have a lovely looking x-flow which really appeals too! I'm in no rush though, just the Vauxhall engined one appears really cheap compared to the others I've seen!

[Rsdop]

V7SLR said:

Where in Cheshire are you? It's the L7C meet tonight at The Swan in Wybunbury, might be worth popping down.

Just had a look at the website for this, it sounds great. Not sure I could make it in time this evening, I'm down by the Wirral, but I will try and if not definitely get down to the meeting next month. Thanks for the suggestion