Caterham Seven

The Complete Story

Steve Hole

• Publisher: The Crowood Press
• Year: 2026
• Topic: Technology & Engineering
• eBook ISBN:
  9780719846205
• Subtopic: Automotive Transportation & Engineering
• Index: Technology & Engineering

Few cars have left such a lasting mark as the Lotus Seven. First unveiled in 1957, its unmistakable silhouette remains instantly recognisable almost 70 years later. What began as a lightweight sports car from Lotus soon became a legend under the stewardship of Caterham Cars, who took over the design in 1973 after years as an official dealer. Richly illustrated with both historical and contemporary photographs, this book explores the complete story of the Seven, including: The background and history of the Lotus Seven (1957–1973), Details of the changing fortunes of Caterham Cars, including ownership, locations and milestones, Coverage of every Seven model produced Insightful discussion of key moments in the Seven's remarkable journey, Timeless, instantly recognisable and thrilling to drive, the Caterham Seven is nothing short of a motoring icon. First launched as the Lotus Seven in 1957, its unmistakable shape has endured for nearly seven decades. In the last few years, Caterham Cars has undergone a remarkable journey, including two changes of ownership, a bold but brief venture into Formula One and even experiments with bicycles, motorcycles and go-karts – all of which have come and gone. However, through it all, the indomitable Seven has remained at the heart of the brand, still standing tall against all the odds. The company has also moved into three new premises (two of them related to the F1 team), culminating in the summer of 2024 with the opening of 'Dartford X' – a state-of-the-art factory where Caterham promises the Seven will continue to be built. This book brings the Seven's story right up to date, while also revisiting other notable chapters in Caterham's history, including past models like the 21 and the CSR. The Seven's journey is the story of an underdog that grew into a specialist car industry giant. Imitated by many but equalled by none, it remains the purest expression of driving pleasure. Road or track, there is a Seven for everyone.

Table of contents

• Cover
• Half Title
• Title
• Copyright
• Acknowledgements
• Contents
• Forewords
• Preface
• Chapter 1: Lotus Early History and The Lotus Seven
• Chapter 2: Caterham Car Sales & Coachworks
• Chapter 3: Meet The Caterham Seven
• Chapter 4: The 1980s
• Chapter 5: The 1990s
• Chapter 6: The New Millennium
• Chapter 7: Not Just Sevens
• Chapter 8: The Seven in Competition
• Chapter 9: The Future
• Appendix: Caterham Model Chronology
• Caterham Car Dealers
• Useful Suppliers
• Further Reading
• Index