A resolutely modern Caterham: it's a very different thing from a resolutely modern sports car - but in its own way, maybe that bit better. There's nothing quite like a Caterham Seven and for years, the entry point to the range was the brand's most affordable 160 model. Now though, that's been superseded by this rather different variant, the 170. Its maker says that it's a distillation of everything the brand stands for in delivering accessible, simple, light-weight sports cars: we'll see. Caterham has long believed in the credo of efficiency and effectiveness through light weight and simplicity and this 170 model, powered by a tiny Suzuki engine, shows that this philosophy never really gets old. Although you've got just 84bhp to play with, this car is quicker than plenty of hot hatches, while being way more economical and greener. Plus it offers a superior power to weight ratio. Sounds intriguing.

About the Caterham Seven

The Caterham Seven ought to have been superseded long ago. Something smarter and cleverer should have consigned this design into history. That's usually the way of automotive product development, but just occasionally, a formula is so inherently right that successive generations of cars only serve to underline its relevancy. Such is the case with the Seven and this Suzuki-engined 170 model shows that the Seven is a roadster that, if anything, is more in tune with the times now than it was thirty years ago. This is a car that's fun even when you're not posting huge numbers on the clocks. And one that's economical and environmentally sound, yet which nevertheless retains a steely focus with drive capability that refuses to be emasculated. So many sports cars today nanny their drivers, offering a dumbed-down, synthesis of all the visceral emotion that should accompany a proper roadster. Caterham doesn't subscribe to this view. Long may that continue.

Representative finance example

If your borrow amount is £7,000 with a deposit of £1,000, a selected term of 48 months, at a representative APR of 17.9% (fixed) and an annual fixed interest rate of 17.9%, you would pay £171.83 per month. Total charge for credit would be £2,247.84 and total amount repayable is £8,247.84.