1991 Caterham Super Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the Caterham Seven Super ranges between 530 to 550 kg (1168 to 1213 lbs), making it one of the lightest road-legal sports cars available during its production period. Its maximum permissible weight is between 850 and 860 kg (1874 to 1896 lbs). This very light weight contributes significantly to the car’s excellent power-to-weight ratio, impressive acceleration, and superior handling dynamics, defining the quintessential driving experience Caterham aims to deliver.

The Caterham Seven Super offers a luggage capacity of just 75 liters (approximately 2.6 cubic feet). This limited storage space reflects its design as a focused lightweight sports car rather than a practical daily driver. While sufficient for small bags or light gear, it is not intended for large luggage or extended trips where substantial cargo space is necessary. Owners typically use the vehicle for spirited drives, track days, or short excursions rather than conventional family or commuting needs.

The Caterham Seven Super featured a range of tire and rim sizes designed to enhance its grip and handling capabilities. The rims measured 6J x 14, supporting various tire sizes including 185/60 R14, 205/45 R16, 185/65 R15, 185/65 R14, 195/55 R15, and 185/60 R16. These combinations allowed owners some flexibility in tire fitment, optimizing for track performance or street use, balancing traction, response, and ride comfort in line with the car’s performance-focused character.

Yes, the Caterham Seven Super fits comfortably into a standard home garage. With a length of 3380 mm (133.1 inches) and width of 1580 mm (62.2 inches), it is significantly smaller than average family cars or SUVs. Its compact footprint and low height (1120 mm or 44.1 inches) make maneuvering into a typical residential garage straightforward, offering homeowners ease of storage without needing specialized space. This is an advantage for enthusiasts looking to keep a track-focused car at home.

Compared to earlier Lotus Seven models and the initial Caterham versions, the Seven Super maintained a very similar compact footprint but introduced several refinements. The length of around 3380 mm (133.1 inches) and width of 1580 mm (62.2 inches) is consistent with the classic Seven’s philosophy of minimalism. However, the Super generation offered slightly improved ergonomics and chassis tweaks to enhance driving comfort and safety. These changes preserved the original’s iconic small size while making the car more livable and reliable without compromising its lightweight sports car essence.

The Caterham Seven Super stands out as one of the smallest and lightest sports cars of the 1990s. Compared to contemporaries like the Mazda MX-5 Miata or the Alfa Romeo Spider, which were larger both in footprint and weight, the Seven is significantly lighter at around 530-550 kg (1168-1213 lbs) and more compact (3380 mm length, 1580 mm width). This results in superior agility and more raw driving dynamics. Its minimalist approach contrasts with the more comfort and feature-oriented design philosophy of similar-era roadsters, carving its niche as an uncompromising driver’s car.

The Caterham Seven Super retains the classic two-seat, open-cockpit layout emblematic of the original Lotus Seven design. It features simple, functional bucket seats placed very low in the chassis, promoting a raw and immersive driving experience. The cabin is minimalist with very limited creature comforts, focusing primarily on the connection between driver, car, and road. Its open-top cabriolet style increases the sensation of speed and exposure to the environment but also reduces everyday practicality and weather protection.

The Caterham Seven Super's featherweight construction, with curb weight as low as 530 kg (1168 lbs), is central to its identity and performance. This minimal mass translates directly into exceptional handling agility, brakes efficiency, and acceleration, even with modest engine power levels. The lightweight frame reduces inertia during quick directional changes, producing a go-kart-like driving feel. Additionally, the low weight improves fuel efficiency and tire longevity. This design prioritizes driving purity and responsiveness above all else, making it a legendary track and road sports car.

During its production from 1992 to 2001, the Caterham Seven Super was available with various engine and suspension upgrades tailored to different performance preferences. Owners could choose from a range of engines, including traditionally tuned inline-fours, and could also customize aspects like suspension setups and braking components. Optional extras often included lightweight body panels and specialized wheels, allowing owners to further reduce weight or dial in handling characteristics. These variants helped maintain the model’s appeal among enthusiasts seeking Track Day or club motorsport usage.