It is almost a Kei car in size.
Caterham has introduced a new entry-level model to replace the Seven 160.
Caterham’s smallest model is now called the Seven 170. It measures just 57.8 inches (1.470 millimeters) even with the new rear and front wings. This puts it in Japan’s car category. 170 is also the smallest Seven. The Seven 170 is the lightest Seven ever produced, weighing in at 970 pounds (440 kg).
The Seven 170’s turbocharged 660cc three cylinder Suzuki engine is still used, making it an Kei vehicle. Its overall output of 84 horsepower (63 Kilowatts) is still above the Kei limit of 63 HP (47 kW).
This power output yields an incredible power-to-weight ratio (170 horsepower per tonne), hence the 170 nomenclature.
The Caterham Seven 170 has a live rear axle suspension, and a set narrow Avon ZT7 tires (a 155 section tire). These two components guarantee excellent handling. It’s impossible to know if these specs translate into real-world numbers.
Caterham Seven 170 comes in S and R versions. The latter gains a sport suspension pack and 14-inch black Juno alloys wheels, limited slip differential, carbon fiber dashboard, composite race seats and four-point harnesses. This adds up to around PS1,000, or $1,369 at current exchange rates.
The standard equipment on both S & R is a five-speed manual transmission, a Momo steering wheels, LED rear lights, indicators, and polished exhaust tip. There are also four different paint options.
The Caterham Seven 170 begins at PS22.990 ($31.461).