Caterham - Super Seven 1700 Supersprint - 1989

La Caterham Seven 1700 Supersprint, introduced in the mid-1980s, represents the apogee of the line powered by the legendary Ford Kent Crossflow block. In this version highly sought after by purists, the engine displacement in cast iron has been raised to 1 690 cm³ (commonly called 1700) and factory-optimized to deliver remarkable power thanks to the adoption of two Weber double-body carburetors. This model with a live axle embodies the quintessence of Colin Chapman’s original recipe: an exceptional power-to-weight ratio, a complete absence of electronic aids and pure, analog driving sensations. It is a true collectible piece, highly symbolic, as it marks the end of the era of carburated Crossflow engines before the brand’s transition to modern multi-valve injection engines.

CARROSSERIE/PEINTURE
The bodywork of this very nice specimen benefits from a fresh paint applied to its various components. The vehicle is equipped with 13-inch Jupiter wheels, mounted on new Toyo R888R semi-slick tires. To face the weather, the car is delivered with its complete rain kit including the hood, doors and tonneau cover. The exterior aesthetics is completed by the presence of F1-type mirrors.

TECHNIQUE
This Caterham is fitted with a 4-speed gearbox (BV4) and a live axle. It is powered by a new Ford 1700 Kent engine developing 145 horsepower, prepared by the specialist Partridge Green Motorsport (PGM), with an engine invoice dating from 2023 totaling €10,000. The fuel supply is provided by two Weber 40 DCOE carburetors, which have been ultrasonic cleaned and adjusted. The exhaust is entrusted to a 4-into-1 stainless steel collector.

The vehicle has been completely overhauled and incorporates many new parts, including suspension bushings, ball joints, rear brakes, water hoses and the battery. The radiators for water and oil have been serviced, a circuit breaker was installed, the front wishbones have been powder-coated, and a complete geometry was performed.

INTÉRIEUR
The cockpit of this right-hand drive (RHD) version features fabric S3 Caterham-branded seats, complemented by Caterham safety harnesses. It also comes with a practical interior storage net. It is also possible to provide the vehicle with its original leather seats, which are visible in the latest photos of the presentation.

DOCUMENTS
The administrative and historical file of this car is particularly complete. It includes the original order form as well as the purchase invoice from the time, supplemented by the original Assembly Guide and numerous maintenance invoices detailing the vehicle’s history. For the sale, the car is accompanied by a dating certificate issued by the FFVE, its technical inspection, and will be sold with a French collection registration card.

AUTRES INFORMATIONS
This Caterham 1700 Supersprint specimen was put on the road on December 14, 1989. It is a rigorously preserved second-hand, having known only two owners in 35 years of activity. The odometer shows 26,000 miles, i.e. about 42,000 kilometers, making it a very rare model in such a preserved state. The vehicle, registered in France, is currently available in stock in our premises in France. A delivery option by closed van is also feasible anywhere in France, with a price available on request.