Goodwood Test: Caterham Super Seven 600 2023 Review

It’s the engine, however, that is the real celebration of the Super Seven 600. It’s a 660cc turbocharged three-cylinder Suzuki, and it’s the best choice for this car. The whine of the third pot strikes a note that matches the car’s passion for performance, especially when it gets past 6,500rpm. It’s smooth, hearty and with 85PS (63kW) it’s really plenty of power for a car that only weighs 460kg. Launching from 0-62mph takes 6.9 seconds, which is quicker than the Mazda MX-5, and in a car that keeps you so close to the road, it feels far from sluggish.

It’s easy to get the most out of it, too, and because it revs so carefully, and delivers its power so gently, you’re constantly reaching for the gear lever, which is another big tick, big for the 600. It’s mated to a five-speed gearbox, which it has one of the shortest throws I’ve ever experienced in a street car. It’s less of a throw and more of a flick, as you rattle up and down the gear. And although it is very clever and quick, it is also magical. You can feel and hear all the components click into place, which is another level of integration that hits you every meter of the way.

More than that, however, it’s the turbo that seals the deal for the Super Seven 600. Sure, you’ve probably driven turbocharged cars before, they’re everywhere now, to be honest, but rarely does a car make a sound. which can compare with the best comedians for laughs per minute. For starters, the turbo is mounted directly behind the big head, so the sound of air rushing through it fills the cabin every time you apply the throttle. The explosion when changing gears is wonderful, and the flutter of the turbo is needed whenever you want another smile. For such a small car, there is more comfort to be had here than in many other tough, expensive and sought-after cars.