Electric Cars

Experience the Apex: Precision, Power, and Purity on the Track

Unveiling the Special Edition: A Tribute to a Century of Racing

Caterham has meticulously engineered an exclusive variant of its renowned Seven sports car, aptly named the Seven Nrburgring Edition. This special model commemorates the 100th anniversary of the legendary Nrburgring racing circuit. Only 100 examples of this collector's item will be available worldwide, with each car drawing its foundation from either the high-performance Seven 420R or the dynamic 340R, depending on the regional market. A key distinguishing feature, universally present across all units, is a custom-designed racing suspension system, promising an unmatched connection to the road.

Advanced Suspension Engineering: Tailored for the 'Green Hell'

To ensure optimal performance on the challenging Nrburgring track, Caterham collaborated with Bilstein, a leader in suspension technology. The specialized suspension system underwent extensive development at Bilstein's advanced test facilities, where it was precisely calibrated to meet the rigorous demands and unique characteristics of the 'Ring. This bespoke setup guarantees exceptional handling and responsiveness, allowing drivers to fully exploit the car's potential on both track and road.

Distinctive Design and Performance: Merging Heritage with Modernity

The Nrburgring Edition boasts several aesthetic enhancements that highlight its exclusive nature. Exterior details include prominent Nrburgring branding, a striking red roll bar, lightweight carbon fiber front wings, and an aerodynamic composite screen. Inside, the cabin features further 'Ring insignia, performance-oriented four-point harnesses, and an individually numbered plaque, underscoring its limited-edition status. Powering this special Seven is a robust Ford-sourced 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 210 horsepower and 150 pound-feet of torque. This engine is paired with a precise five-speed manual transmission, enabling a thrilling 0-60 mph acceleration in just 3.8 seconds and a top speed of 136 mph, promising a driving experience that is as exhilarating as it is pure.

Investment in Driving Passion: Pricing and Accessibility

For enthusiasts in the United States, the Caterham Seven Nrburgring Edition is available as a rolling chassis, with prices beginning at $56,595. This pricing structure invites owners to personalize the final assembly, allowing for a deeper connection with their high-performance machine. The Seven Nrburgring Edition stands as more than just a car; it represents a unique tribute to a century of racing heritage, blending Caterham's minimalist philosophy with the Nrburgring's legendary status, offering a truly distinctive piece of automotive history for those who crave an unadulterated driving experience.

Bentley, a name synonymous with automotive luxury, embarked on a strategic revitalization to redefine its brand identity, moving away from being merely a counterpart to Rolls-Royce. This revival, spearheaded by Rolls-Royce Motors' chief executive, Peter Ward, aimed to establish Bentley as a marque that embodied discreet sportiness, a departure from Rolls-Royce's more opulent and imposing image. This new direction emphasized Bentley's racing heritage, a legacy underscored by its five Le Mans victories from decades past, and exclusively featured the potent turbocharged variant of the venerable 6.7-liter V-8 engine within its models.

A pivotal moment in this brand transformation was the unveiling of the Bentley Continental R at the Geneva Motor Show. This stunning two-door coupe, the first Bentley to feature an entirely unique body style in a decade, immediately captivated the automotive world. Its design, a modern interpretation of the classic R-type Continentals from the 1950s and 60s, was a collaboration between John Heffernan and Ken Greenley. Despite its coupe styling implying less space for a higher cost, the Continental R was notably longer than its sedan counterpart, the Turbo R. With a limited production run and a quarter-million-dollar price tag, demand surged, with two years' worth of production pre-ordered within months, indicating the profound impact of Bentley's renewed focus on distinctiveness and performance. The Sultan of Brunei even acquired the prototype, a testament to its desirability among discerning collectors.

Beyond its striking aesthetics, the Continental R delivered on its promise of performance and refinement. Powering this magnificent vehicle was a turbocharged 6.7-liter V-8, estimated to produce around 325 horsepower, ensuring remarkable acceleration for a car of its size. Its aerodynamic improvements, combined with a lower axle ratio, contributed to enhanced speed. The inclusion of a four-speed automatic transmission, operated by a unique electric selector and featuring a 'Sport' mode that stiffened the suspension, highlighted its driver-centric design. This emphasis on 'roadholding' over absolute ride comfort marked a philosophical shift, aiming to satisfy the driver as much as the passenger. Despite a few pre-production imperfections, such as minor wind noise, the Continental R's opulent interior, complete with Connolly leather and polished walnut, offered a spacious and sophisticated environment for four adults, confirming its status as the ultimate grand touring machine for those who desired to drive, rather than be driven.

The Bentley Continental R exemplifies a renewed commitment to craftsmanship and driving pleasure, proving that true luxury can be both indulgent and engaging. It reminds us that innovation and a clear vision can revitalize a legacy, fostering appreciation for quality, performance, and a unique identity.