Description
1996 CATERHAM 7 - 40TH ANNIVERSARY - No. 1 of 67
A rare and highly collectible Caterham Seven 40th Anniversary Edition, finished in stunning Ruby Pearlescent with a Silver bonnet stripe and black coachline. This particular example is plaque number 1 of just 67 produced, making it the very first of this exclusive anniversary series.
Originally showcased at the 1996 Motorshow, this factory-built example remains in exceptional condition, boasting an enviable specification and an illustrious history.
This car will be fully serviced and freshly MOTd ahead of sale.
Model History
Unveiled at the 1957 London Motorshow, the Super Seven quickly became an icon of lightweight, high-performance motoring. To celebrate 40 years of continuous production, Caterham introduced the 40th Anniversary Special Edition between 1996 and 1998. Each of the 67 units built featured the distinctive Ruby Pearlescent paint, Silver bonnet stripe, and black coachline, along with an individually numbered dashboard plaque.
Buyers had the choice of either a Rover K-Series engine or the more powerful 2. 0L Vauxhall unit, making this one of the most expensive Caterhams of its time, with prices north of £20, 000 in period. Today, the 40th Anniversary Edition remains a sought-after collector’s piece, with this particular example being the most significant of them all – the very first one ever built.
Exterior
The Ruby Pearlescent paintwork presents beautifully, retaining its deep luster and originality. The Silver bonnet stripe, unique to this edition, continues over the nose cone, which proudly bears the Seven logo – an optional feature on standard models.
All exterior trim and bodywork are in excellent condition, with full weather equipment, including the original tonneau cover and ‘handbag’ remaining pristine. Suspension components are immaculately preserved, with vibrant Bilstein branding still intact, underscoring the car’s careful ownership and fair-weather use.
While the chrome rear wing protectors show some minor stone chips, these are consistent with use and add to the car’s authenticity. The lightweight aluminium bonnet is unmarked and proudly displays the 40th Anniversary logo on both sides.
Interior
The full leather trim transforms the cabin, offering a premium touch over the standard setup. The black leather seats, transmission tunnel cover, dashboard, and trim panels remain in superb condition. The lightweight sports seats provide excellent support, complemented by the Caterham 4-point harnesses for added security.
A Motolita leather steering wheel adds a classic touch, while the numbered plaque (No. 1) on the dashboard serves as a constant reminder of this car’s exclusivity. The analogue gauges function perfectly, and the inclusion of both a heater and heated front screen makes for a more comfortable driving experience.
The carpeting is exceptionally well-preserved, showing no signs of wear, and the original jack remains stored in its bag.
Engine
This 40th Anniversary Edition was factory-fitted with the highly desirable 2. 0L Vauxhall ‘Redtop’ engine, producing 175 BHP via Twin Weber Carburettors. The De Dion rear axle and 5-speed gearbox ensure thrilling performance, true to the Caterham philosophy of lightweight, engaging driving dynamics.
2. 0L Vauxhall ‘Redtop’ 175 BHP engine with Twin Weber Carburettors
5-speed transmission with De Dion rear axle
15” ‘Prisoner’ wheels wrapped in 195/ 50 Pilot tyres
Stainless steel competition exhaust
Vectra Immobiliser
Chassis number: SDKRDCHVXT0030229
The odometer on this car was replaced at 10, 027 miles due to a failure, with the original unit still included. The replacement odometer currently shows 3, 582 miles, confirming the car has covered less than 14, 000 miles from new.
History File
Originally registered on November 25, 1996, this Caterham was delivered new to its first owner, Mr. R. Burton, who purchased it directly from the Motorshow stand. The original service book and supporting documentation confirm its provenance as the Motorshow car, making it one of the most historically significant examples in existence.
With just 14, 360 miles, this factory-built, first-of-its-kind 40th Anniversary Caterham presents an exceptional opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Summary
1 of only 67 built, and the very first one (Plaque No. 1)
Factory-built with the rare 2. 0L Vauxhall ‘Redtop’ engine
15, 000 miles from new
Originally the Motorshow display car
Stunning condition throughout
A true collector’s Caterham, offering historical significance, rarity, and exhilarating performance.
MOT Mileage History :
March 2025 : 3, 599 miles - valid to 04. 03. 2026
August 2022 : 3, 472 miles
April 2019 : 3, 291 miles
August 2017 : 2, 512 miles
August 2016 : 11, 561 miles (New odometer milage of 1, 534 added to old odometer reading of 10, 027)
August 2025 : 5 miles (odometer changed at 10, 027 miles)
March 2025 : 10, 027 miles
August 2012 : 6, 541 miles
July 2011 : 6, 012 miles
July 2009 : 5, 808 miles
August 2009 : 3, 200 miles
Decemeber 2007 : 3, 035 miles
October 2006 : 3, 016 miles
MOT Certificates :
2025, 2022, 2017, 2016, 2015, 2011, 2010, 2009, 2008, 2007, 2006, 2004, 2003, 2002, 2001, 2000
Documents :
Original communications with Caterham ordering the car, Purchase order. Original Invoice £20, 950, Certificate of newness, Original warranty agreement, Original owners file, V5C, Various invoices and MOTs.
Invoices On File :
2025 : This car will be fully serviced and freshly MOTd ahead of sale.
15. 08. 2022 : £382. 00 - Redline Components
28. 11. 2016 : £248. 40 - Caterham
14. 03. 2016 : £38. 06 - Caterham
21. 09. 2015 : £14. 58 - Caterham
17. 09. 2015 : £12. 91 - Spark Plugs Ltd
17. 09. 2015 : £47. 99 - Engine Oil Direct
11. 07. 2011 : £232. 00 - The Car Doctor
11. 04. 2011 : £80. 00 - The Car Doctor
05. 04. 2011 : £50. 00 - The Car Doctor
05. 04. 2011 : £70. 00 - The Car Doctor
03. 03. 2010 : £491. 00 - The Car Doctor
23. 02. 2010 : £245. 28 - Redline Components
13. 02. 2010 : £128. 00 - The Car Doctor
01. 10. 2009 : £304. 27 - Redline Components
14. 07. 2009 : £170. 00 - The Car Doctor
20. 04. 2009 : £9. 66 - Caterham
02. 04. 2009 : £90. 00 - The Car Doctor
30. 03. 2009 : £115. 00 - The Car Doctor
30. 03. 2009 : £34. 02 - Redline Componets
01. 09. 2008 : £64. 63 - Car Parts & Accessories
21. 12. 2007 : £342. 79 - Graham's Garage Services
23. 10. 2006 : £58. 00 - Graham's Garage Services
21. 09. 2004 : £147. 17 - Graham's Garage Services
30. 07. 2004 : £407. 22 - Graham's Garage Services
02. 08. 2003 : £40. 75 - Risboro Tyres
03. 05. 2002 : £4. 11 - Arrowstar Racing
03. 05. 2002 : £441. 73 - Arrowstar Racing
08. 04. 2002 : £18. 79 - Arrowstar Racing
20. 01. 2001 : £416. 39 - Arrowstar Racing
19. 01. 2001 : £30. 87 - Arrowstar Racing
29. 01. 2000 : £32. 11 - Risboro Tyres
28. 04. 1999 : £814. 95 - Arrowstar Racing
08. 03. 1997 : £95. 83 - Arrowstar Racing
07. 12. 1996 : £20, 950 - Caterham Cars Limited
Viewing :
Viewing is strictly by appointment only.
