The entry-level Caterham 160 has a 79 horsepower 660cc turbocharged Suzuki three-cylinder, weighs about as much as two marshmallows and costs $24,183 in the UK in kit form.
Debuting at the Frankfurt Motor Show, the 160 is Caterham's most efficient Seven yet. It conforms to EU5, EU6 and JC08 emissions regulations, but being economical doesn't make it slow. It does 0-62 in 6.5 seconds and goes on to a top speed of 100 mph. If you're looking for a back-to-basics sports car, this would be it.
The new rear axle is a throwback to early Sevens in terms of simplicity and purity of design (meaning it's a live-axle), the steelies could have come from a delivery truck, and the tiny engine has the same torque figure as horsepower: 79 ft lb.
If you want a fully built one, that's $29,021 in the UK. The rest of the European Union gets the 165 model, which costs a bit more since it complies with EU5 regulations, and the same goes to Japan, too. They all weigh 1,080 pounds, giving the 160/165 pair a power-to-weight ratio of 161 horsepower/ton.
We've seen what Caterham is planning for the future, but for now, I believe the latest reincarnation of the Seven will do just fine. Too bad America is not getting this one either. For $29,580, Caterham USA offers the Classic without engine or transmission.
Just move to England. I lived there for three years, it's a lovely place.
More photos and info in the press release.