Bought rights to 7 from Lotus and has been selling them with undiminished demand since early 70's

January, 2005. British sports car builder Caterham is ending 31 years of ownership by the Nearn family. Caterham has built a single model based on the Lotus 7 since 1973, when car dealer Graham Nearn bought the right to the design from Colin Chapman. The new owners are ex-Lotus directors Ansar Ali, Gideon Wigger and David Oberteli, funded by venturecapitalists. The trio promises to continue funding for an improved CSR model powered by new Cosworth-tuned Ford engines.

Following the introduction of the Lotus Seven in 1957, Caterham Cars soon became the renown experts on the Seven and were duly appointed as one of the first Lotus Centres in 1959. Shortly afterwards, Caterham were appointed as the sole concessionaires for the Seven, until, in 1973, the World rights were transferred from Lotus to Caterham Cars.

Today's Caterham Seven has a timeless classic appeal, yet technically it's more than a match for current performance cars. Over the years, it has broken many records on circuits both in the UK and overseas, and continues to impress the media with its awesome dynamic capabilities.

Continual development over the past 40 years has kept the Seven at the forefront of performance motoring. Whether you're looking to tour the country lanes or put in your best time around you favourite track, there is a Seven specifically designed to meet your needs. With the introduction of de Dion rear suspension, a Caterham six speed close ratio gearbox, a stiffer spaceframe chassis with honeycombe impact protection panels and a selection of light and powerful engines, the Seven is well equipped to provide you with the drive of your life. And now, for the first time in its 40-year history, an extended dimension chassis is available, truly opening up the Seven market to a wider audience.

Other UKCAR Caterham Information Caterham Cars Picture Library Caterham Cars for Sale Place a Caterham wanted advert Caterham Cars Wanted Caterham Badges Mascots & Misc. Caterham Prototypes and Concepts Find Books on Caterham (USA)

Try out the new image library for all Marques

See the UKCAR   Caterham  Thumbnail Only Gallery