Running costs of racing a Caterham

[DBaldwin]

Hi guys,

I’m currently racing a Clio and the reliability has literally broken me. 4 years with no real racing to show for it and I’m sick of it and looking for a change. Caterhams look like a good proposition, looking through things I’d probably be looking at a 310r. What I wanted to know is what are the running costs like in regards to the actual car.

How often are engines being rebuilt and at what sort of cost?
Gearbox? (My current hatred!!)
What are the weak points and things to look out for?
Tire usage and costs?

I don’t actually know a huge amount about these cars but everyone seems to rave about them. Is there any teams able to offer an arrive and drive at a race meeting or test day so I can see if their for me or not?

I’m just looking for something reliable and fun so that I can try to start enjoying my racing again instead of hating it like I have been with my Clio.

Many thanks

[DBaldwin]

Thanks for the replies guys, sounds like some very cheap running costs in the scheme of things! This leads me onto how do I find out more and is there anyone offering arrive and drive so I can dip my toe in the water so to speak? I’ve raced for years but never driven a caterham type car, just gearbox karts and my Clio and I’m struggling to find anyone who offers this due to the high demand for racing spaces. Even just a test would be good.

Basically the aim of this year it to try a few different championships/ cars and see what I like with the view to buying a car and doing a full championship/series next year and just generally get some seat time.

I saw caterham we’re racing at silverstone this weekend which would have been ideal to go and watch, have a look round and chat to people but unfortunately covid restrictions meant that wouldn’t be possible