Caterham Track has unveiled a new look for the iconic Seven designed for the day. The Seven 420 Cup features changes inspired by the Seven Racecar, including a set of hand-adjustable Bilstein dampers, but it remains street-legal, meaning you can drive it on and off the track of your choice.
The company described the new model as “the best track-day seven we’ve ever made”, adding that it bridges the gap between the 420R and the hardcore seven championship racer.
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Apparently, the 420 CUP is distinguished by a redesigned nose with dual feeding, optional race roll cage with racing-style mirrors, windscreen replacement carbon-fiber parts, a concentrated petrol filler, and a new pair of LED taillights. It also has a race-inspired lever with transparent satin decal and custom graphics.
Inside, the 420 CUP symbol can be found in the Alcantara-upholstered headrest of optional carbon-fiber seats, in the new racing dials, and in the Alcantara covered transmission tunnel. The dashboard looks like a 620R and is finished in satin carbon. Caterham offers more options for seats, roll cages and chassis (standard and large).
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Beneath the bonnet is a Ford-powered naturally aspiring 2.0-liter Duretech four-cylinder engine that produces 207 hp (157 kW / 210 PS) and 203 Nm (150 lb-ft), similar to the standard Seven 420. However, a new SADEV optimized for faster transfer of power is sent to the rear wheels via a six-speed sequential gearbox. Thus, the 420 CUP can accelerate from 0-60 mph (0-96 km / h) in 3.6 seconds, which is 0.2 seconds faster than the 420, although it does not match the 2.79-second image of the flagship 620R. Maximum speed 136 mph (219 km / h).
In addition to the gearbox, the most important change to the 420 CUP is the 10-stage, fully adjustable damper made by Billstein and Caterham. The great thing about them is that you can choose between ten steps of hardness by hand, without the need for tools.
In addition, the 420 CUP comes standard with Avon ZZR or ZZS tires, but those who are more serious about lap time can get the optional ZZR Extreme. Although the latter roads are not legal, Caterham boasts that they bring in supercar-beating time, including 1’45 “in Olton Park in the UK.
The Caterham Seven 420 CUP is available exclusively in the United Kingdom and the United States because it does not comply with strict emissions rules in the EU. Prices for a finished car in the UK will start at £ 54,990 ($ 68,731) (not available as a kit), while in the US customers will need to ask their local retailer for more information. The 720 Cup Goodwood will make its public debut at FOS, with production set to begin in early 2023.