Seven 270

Make
Caterham
Segment
Compact

If the AeroSeven Concept is at the far end of the scale, then the Caterham Seven 160 is what you'll now find at the entry point of the lineup. And for £14,995, you can even build it yourself. The Seven 160, known as the 165 in Europe, is powered by a Suzuki 660cc turbocharged three-cylinder unit with 80 hp and 79 lb-ft of torque on tap sent to its skinny wheels via a five-speed manual. That's enough for the entry-level Caterham to shift from 0-62 mph in 6.5 seconds and on to a top speed of 100 mph.

The Seven 160's seriously stripped down body, live-axle rear suspension and compact engine embodies the spirit of the early Lotus Sevens, offering drivers a budget sportscar with precision handling and buckets of personality. Priced at £17,995 for a ready-built model, production of the 160 and 165 will start in January with sales commencing in spring.