Caterham is marking the end of an era with the final chapter for its Ford Sigma-powered models. The new Caterham Seven 310 Encore will be the last car to use the 1.6-litre naturally aspirated Ford Sigma engine, a unit that has played a key role in Caterham’s lineup since 2007.
Only 25 units of the Seven 310 Encore will be produced. The lightweight two-seater combines Caterham’s traditional minimalist design with subtle enhancements that reflect its motorsport roots. With 152 horsepower and a manual five-speed gearbox, it accelerates from zero to 62 miles per hour in around five seconds and tops out at 127 miles per hour.
Inspired by the 310R Championship car, the Encore gains key mechanical upgrades over the standard Seven. These include a lighter flywheel, upgraded suspension with adjustable springs, a wider front track, and a stiffer anti-roll bar. Braking performance is also improved thanks to 254-millimeter vented front discs and a high-performance race-spec brake master cylinder.
These refinements help the car deliver sharp on-track performance, with the Encore clocking a lap time of 1 minute 18 seconds at Donington Park. Visually, the Encore sets itself apart with design features such as a new aero-inspired nose cone, carbon fiber front wings, and a grille borrowed from the Cup racer. A new heat shield cover and a gunmetal-finished chassis complete the look. Compact 13-inch Apollo wheels and black windscreen frames add further detail.
Caterham is also offering a range of six custom body colors named after popular rock and pop songs, including Blue Monday, Orange Crush, and White Noise. Each model will include a numbered plaque to reflect its limited production status.
Inside, the car stays true to Caterham’s simple, functional design. It features black seats with grey stitching, four-point harnesses, a carbon-look dashboard, and exclusive Encore branding throughout the cabin.
This final edition pays tribute to more than 50 years of Ford four-cylinder engines in Caterham cars. While the Sigma engine retires, Caterham’s current range continues with power from Suzuki, Ford Duratec, and other suppliers. Looking ahead, the company is also preparing a lightweight electric sports car in partnership with Yamaha.
