| Year
(of specifications) |
2011 |
| Engine |
Ford
2.0 litre 4-cylinder Duratech supercharged |
| Transmission |
6
speed sequential RWD |
| Max
speed |
170
mph |
| 0-60
mph |
2.5
seconds |
| Horsepower |
300
bhp |
| weight |
under
600 kgs / 1,322 lbs |
Unveiled at the 2011 Autosport International Show (Birmingham,
UK), the Caterham-Lola SP/300.R is an important new model for
Caterham, and one which nicely compliments their most iconic
car, the Seven.
The Caterham-Lola SP300R is a sports prototype racing car for
a new one-make series and trackday enthusiasts - although a
road-legal version is also being considered.
The SP300R was developed with the help of Lola Cars, who are
respected around the world for their expertise in racecar design
and engineering.
Only 25 SP/300Rs will be manufactured each year, allowing Caterham
to concentrate on improving the build quality of every car,
and also maintain a close relationship with their customers.
Drivetrain
Powering the Caterham-Lola SP300R is a Caterham-tuned, supercharged
version of Ford’s 2.0L Duratec engine. Thanks to the supercharger
and additional modifications, the engine fitted to the SP300R
produces 300hp, while also providing a linear torque delivery
across the entire rev range.
The transmission is handled by a Hewland semiautomatic FTR transmission
which transmits the power to the rear wheels.
Thanks to the incredibly light overall weight, coupled with
the potent drivetrain, the SP300R can reach 60 mph in just 2.5
seconds. Top speed is 170 mph.
Chassis
The basic chassis of the Caterham-Lola SP300R is an aluminium
tub with a longitudinally mid-mounted engine, coupled to a stress-bearing
rear transaxle. A forward splitter and large rear wing reduce
lift, while a flat underbody maximizes ground effect benefits.
With the styling aerodynamically,
rather than aesthetically led, the SP/300.R has been designed
using Lola's state-of-the-art CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics)
technology, with input and design decisions from Caterham. One
trademark Caterham design cue is the Seven-style rectangular
grille located beneath the nose of the car.
The SP/300.R bodywork also features an F1-style raised nose
section and sectioned panels, which will help reduce repair
costs, ease maintenance and, importantly, allow single-handed
removal of body panels track-side.
Suspension
The Caterham-Lola SP/300.R features a full race suspension setup
including; front and rear dual wishbones with pushrod dampers,
adjustable ride height and bespoke wheels and tires.
The rear suspension architecture is derived from that used on
the Lola Formula 3 and World Junior cars.
Safety Features
In order to comply with MSA safety regulations the Caterham-Lola
SP300R hosts a number of safety features. The main component
of the car's safety system is the integrated roll cage, this
has been designed specifically for the car and it is incorporated
neatly into the styling.
Similar and related vehicles:
Caterham Supersport
Caterham RS V8 Levante
Caterham CSR 260
Caterham CSR 260 Superlight
Caterham R400 Superlight
Caterham R500 Superlight
Caterham 21
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