Caterham-Lola SP 300R



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.


Powering the Caterham-Lola SP300R is a Caterham-tuned, supercharged version of Ford’s 2.0-L Duratec engine. Thanks to the supercharger and additional modifications, the engine fitted to the SP300R produces 300 hp, 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.


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.


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.

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.