Introduction

The Caterham Seven 170 is a refreshing take on what a sports car can be in today’s automotive landscape. With just 84 brake horsepower, this Suzuki-engine-powered vehicle defies expectations. Despite its modest power, it offers a thrilling performance comparable to high-powered hot hatches. Affordable, economical, and surprisingly eco-friendly, the Caterham Seven 170 challenges the notion that bigger and faster is always better. Perhaps, more sports cars should follow its lead.

The Philosophy Behind the Caterham Seven 170

Caterham has always believed in efficiency and simplicity through lightweight construction. This ethos is fully realized in the Caterham Seven 170. Powered by a small yet lively Suzuki engine, this car proves that you don’t need immense horsepower to have fun on the road. The Seven 170, weighing just over 440 kilograms, offers an impressive power-to-weight ratio of more than 170 brake horsepower per ton. It can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in just 6.9 seconds and reach speeds over 100 mph—if you’re brave enough to push it that far!
This lightweight construction is a key reason why the Seven 170 feels so engaging to drive. The vehicle’s live rear axle suspension and slim 155-section tires ensure that even less-experienced drivers can enjoy its full potential. There’s no traction control—it’s all about your skill behind the wheel. The steering is communicative, and the brakes provide ample stopping power. It’s a pure driving experience that keeps you connected to the road in ways that modern sports cars often fail to do.

Design: A Compact, Lightweight Marvel

The Caterham Seven 170 isn’t just lightweight—it’s also the narrowest and smallest Seven ever produced. Measuring 1,470 mm in width, it’s 105 mm narrower than any other model in the current range. This makes it incredibly nimble and perfectly suited for tight, twisty roads.
The design features new alloy wheels, rear LED lights, and a sleeker stripe pattern, making it stand out from its predecessors. However, the Seven 170 is still unmistakably a Caterham, retaining the retro charm that fans of the brand love. While it can outperform much larger sports cars on a racetrack, don’t expect it to be practical for daily errands. It’s not designed for convenience but for pure driving pleasure. There’s no radio, and the cabin is a throwback to the 1970s with its popper-fit roof and basic controls.
For those concerned about comfort, Caterham offers an optional large chassis model, which is 250 mm longer and provides extra room for drivers who might need a bit more space. Despite the minimalist interior, Caterham has spent years perfecting this design, ensuring that the basics are done right.

Performance: Small But Mighty

At the heart of the Caterham Seven 170 is a turbocharged 660cc Suzuki engine. Though it may seem small, this engine is the key to the car’s impressive performance. Producing 84 bhp and 160 Nm of torque, it delivers an exhilarating driving experience, particularly when paired with the car’s light weight.
The Seven 170’s performance is further enhanced by its live rear axle suspension, making it easy to extract every ounce of power and grip from the car. Whether you’re tackling a twisty country road or a racetrack, the 170’s precision and responsiveness provide a full-strength adrenaline hit. It’s a no-nonsense approach to driving that reminds you why lightweight, well-balanced cars are so much fun.

Two Versions: 170S and 170R

Caterham offers the Seven 170 in two distinct versions: the 170S and the 170R. Both variants are available as either a factory-built car or as a kit for those who enjoy assembling their own vehicle.
The 170S is the more road-friendly version, designed for relaxed driving. It comes with a five-speed gearbox, road suspension, and features such as 14-inch alloy wheels, a full windscreen, and weather protection including a hood and side screens. Inside, the 170S offers leather seats and a Momo steering wheel for a more luxurious feel.
For those who want to take their 170 to the racetrack, the 170R is the better option. It’s equipped with sport suspension, a limited-slip differential, and composite race seats. The 170R also features four-point harnesses, a Momo steering wheel, and a carbon-fiber dashboard. It’s a more focused version of the car, tailored for drivers who want the full Caterham experience on the track.

Running Costs and Environmental Impact

One of the best things about the Caterham Seven 170 is its affordability, not only in terms of the initial purchase but also when it comes to running costs. Thanks to its light weight, the 170 is easy on tires and brakes, reducing wear and tear. The lightweight design also means that the car is surprisingly fuel-efficient. Drivers can expect to get around 30 to 35 miles per gallon even when driving spiritedly.
The Seven 170 is also one of Caterham’s most eco-friendly cars to date, with CO2 emissions of just 109 grams per kilometer. It meets the latest ULEZ and Euro standards, making it greener than some hybrid cars, including models like the Toyota Yaris. With such low emissions, the 170 offers the excitement of a sports car without the environmental guilt.
Residual values are another factor that makes the Seven 170 an attractive option. Caterham’s loyal following ensures that used models retain their value exceptionally well. After three years, a Seven 170 could still be worth over 65% of its original price, making it an excellent investment.

Conclusion: A Sports Car for the Pure Driving Enthusiast

The Caterham Seven 170 embodies everything that makes sports cars exciting: simplicity, light weight, and an engaging driving experience. Despite its modest power output, the Seven 170 delivers a thrilling ride that outshines many modern, high-powered sports cars. It’s a car that connects the driver to the road in a way that few vehicles can match.
I recently came across someone who shared their experience driving the Caterham Seven 170, and it deeply resonated with my own impressions of the car. Their insights further highlighted the unique appeal of this vehicle. If you’re interested in seeing their full review, you can check it out here: Caterham Seven 170 | FULL REVIEW.