This Caterham Seven 360R Transformed with Repurposed Helicopter Parts Is a One-of-a-Kind Marvel
When it comes to driver's cars, few can match the visceral thrill and raw performance of a well-tuned Caterham. However, the spotlight today is on a Caterham Seven 360R that's unlike any you've seen before. This unique model, constructed in collaboration with the United Kingdom's Royal Air Force, exists to raise funds for injured servicemen and women, making it much more than just a car—it's a statement of solidarity and innovation.
Design Inspired by the Skies
Slated for auction on Collecting Cars from August 15 to September 12, this singular masterpiece stands out thanks to its aeronautical theme. The car flaunts a paint job inspired by the Puma HC2, a medium support helicopter renowned for its versatility, capable of carrying up to 2 tons of cargo, 12 equipped troops, or 16 passengers. This variant, officially named the Puma HC.Mk 2 by the RAF, returned to full operational service in 2015 after extensive upgrades and is currently operated by the 230, 28, and 33 Squadrons.
Among the standout features of this model is the incorporation of components from XW232, a Puma helicopter that served the RAF since 1972. This aged aircraft reached the end of its service life and thus found a new purpose in this innovative project.
Repurposed Elegance
A closer look at the Caterham reveals several helicopter-derived elements. The aluminum doors, tail boom, and internal rear bulkhead hail from the decommissioned aircraft. Moreover, the helicopter's quilted soundproofing material has been ingeniously utilized for the car’s door panels, transmission tunnel top, and carbon-fiber seats. Additional quirky touches include evacuation instructions stitched into the seats and a 12-volt battery encased within an ammunition box.
The military theming continues with the dashboard, where you’ll find a navigation clock repurposed as the centerpiece, framed within a satin-black finish. A three-stage ignition sequence pays further homage to the Puma, enhancing the whole experience with a fun, if theatrical, nod to its aeronautical roots.
The Performance Heart
According to Caterham, this remarkable car is priced beyond an easy estimate, though we know that a stock Seven 360 starts at £38,490. The addition of the R package boosts this to £39,490, or approximately $50,540 USD. This unique version, with bespoke track suspension and other specialized enhancements, will undoubtedly fetch much more at auction.
Powering this featherweight beast is a 2.0-liter Duratec engine from Ford, pushing out 180 PS and 194 Nm of torque. Given the car's light weight of 565 kg (1,246 lbs), that translates to an impressive 307 PS per ton. Equipped with Toyo R888R performance tires and 13-inch black alloy wheels, the manual transmission 360R rockets from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.8 seconds, reaching a top speed of 130 mph (210 kph).
A Tribute to the Team
This unique Caterham was assembled with assistance from RAF Benson's personnel. Corporal McCreadie, an aircraft technician who volunteered his time for this project, expressed his pride: "It has been an honor to be a part of the Caterham project." The names of all professionals involved in this unique creation are proudly displayed on the car's hood, ensuring that their contribution is remembered.
In summary, this Caterham Seven 360R is not just an automobile; it is a tribute, a collaboration, and a high-speed embodiment of innovation. It stands as a testament to what can be achieved when different worlds collide, bringing a piece of the sky down to earth in the form of an exhilarating roadster.