Caterham Seven Supersport R Revealed with New Engine

Caterham, the company that makes crazy open-wheel sports cars, just announced a new car that will be even more powerful: the Supersport R. 

“The Supersport’s formula has struck a chord with driving enthusiasts and we are confident that, by extending the range to include an R model, we will be able to build on the original’s success,” CEO Graham Macdonald said.

While maintaining the track-ready spirit of its lesser Supersport sibling, the company’s newest car gets a significant boost thanks to a larger 2.0-liter Ford-sourced engine that makes 180 hp and 143 lb-ft of torque. That might seem sheepish next to similarly priced cars with more than double the power, but this car is no joke.

SEE ALSO: Caterham Seven Could Use Renault Engines

It’ll reach 60 mph in 4.8 seconds and gets a five-speed transmission which Caterham says will boost performance significantly. There’s also an available six-speed transmission, although only as an option.

But the biggest question has a delightfully small answer. How much does it weigh? Fans will be pleased to know that it tips the scales at a tight-waisted 1180 lbs. In the U.K., it costs £24,995 as a kit or £27,995 fully assembled.

GALLERY: Caterham Seven Supersport R