1998 Caterham Seven

On sale with us is a lovely example of the Caterham Seven, a VX 1600 8v no less. Twenty five years young, being manufactured in 1998, it began life in a more subtle shade of green than the brighter shade it now sports. It’s a wrap, as they say!

Let’s rewind to the summer of 2008, as that is when our seller acquired his beloved Caterham and the love affair began.

The car has been mainly used for touring and club drives. Memorable trips include a Nurburgring trip in 2012 and a tour of Ireland two years prior.

With little use over the last year, our seller has decided that the time has come to let someone else take over the custody of his speed machine. With summer just around the corner - well a few months away - think of all the fun there is to be had.

Eye-catching, that’s one way to describe the vibrant colour that now clads the Caterham. It won’t be to everyone’s taste, but the original more subtle green paint still lurks below.

There are a few places where the wrap is not at its best, (see pic 186) but on the whole it still looks jolly smart.

Stainless steel protectors are fitted to the rear wings, both guarding them and adding an extra, pleasing visual detail.

Triumph pdc wheels are fitted, and these could do with a gentle refurb to restore them to their former glory. In addition the vendor has 5 spare wheels, 1 silver and two of a darker grey colour.

Yokohama Advan A048 tyres are fitted all round, and these were developed with proven race technology for drivers who participate in events such as track days, circuit racing or autocross competitions.

The car comes with side screens and a there’s also full hood, as well as a half hood, supplied by well-known Caterham supplier Soft Bits For Se7ens. In addition the vehicle comes with a bag for luggage which can be fitted to the rear. It will keep the worst of the elements at bay should you get caught in an unexpected shower.

Lighting has been upgraded, so smart LEDs will light your way and ensure you can be seen. The vendor has also kept the old halogen lights, old seatbelts and previous speedometer which can be collected with the car.

There’s not much to a Caterham Seven interior. It’s simple, focussed, and free from the distractions of modern cars. It is all about the simple pleasure of driving.

Black leather seats are fitted and last year our seller chose to fit a brand-new set of top quality Sabelt harnesses.

A well-used Momo steering wheel is fitted and a just a few inches away sits the diminutive gear lever, with a Lotus knob sat proudly atop.

Stack instruments have been fitted with a GPS speedometer.

Our seller reports that his lovely Seven is a veritable delight to drive. Stunning performance, fast acceleration, and it corners beautifully. Balanced, controllable and above all fun, whether on track or just out for a Sunday morning blast in the countryside.

The engine bay shows all the signs of careful maintenance we know the car has had, and that 1600cc engine is all revved up and ready for action. You’ll spot the twin Weber 40 carburettors, though the live axle will be harder to see!

The car has only covered 200 miles since last October. Our seller is keen to demonstrate its considerable charms should you choose to pay him a visit before making a bid.

Owned by our seller for the last fifteen years, he has not skimped on maintenance as demonstrated by the pile of invoices he has.

Recent work has been carried out by McMillan Motorsport in Hinckley, Leicestershire. They specialise in the build, preparation, maintenance, and repair of Caterham Cars. They can even offer ‘full race team support’ should you choose to campaign your Seven in proper race series. Staffed by motoring and motorsport enthusiasts, they have a proven history of achieving lap records, winning races and championships whilst driving Caterham cars.

A selection of their invoices is displayed in our gallery showing recent work carried by them.

They also prepared the Seven for MoT testing each year and the last test was passed in October 2022. There were no advisories.

This is an eye-catching and well-maintained example of Caterham’s sublime Seven. Just reading about it is enough to get the pulse racing. Imagine owning it and taking it out for a drive whenever you wished.

Track days may beckon, and who could blame you and we think this car should compete very well.

We estimate the car will sell for between £12,000 and £18,000. Find a quicker car for that money, we challenge you! Be in no doubt, stunning performance is the order of the day here. So, get bidding right away.

Viewing is always encouraged, and this particular car is located with the vendor in Measham, United Kingdom. To arrange an appointment please use the Contact Seller button at the top of the listing. Feel free to ask any questions or make observations in the comments section below, or try our ‘Frequently Asked Questions’.