Caterham has introduced the Seven 310 Encore, a special limited-edition model that bids farewell to the long-serving Ford Sigma engine. With only 25 units being produced, this car marks the end of an era for Caterham’s entry-level sports cars and race machines, celebrating nearly two decades of Sigma-powered thrills.
⚡ The Legacy of the Ford Sigma
The Ford Sigma engine has been central to Caterham’s story since 2007, when it replaced the Rover K-Series unit. Compact, reliable, and easy to tune, the 1.6-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder quickly became the backbone of Caterham’s entry-level lineup. It powered countless road cars and one-make race championships, embodying Caterham’s ethos of lightweight simplicity and pure driving fun.
With Ford ending production of the Sigma, Caterham decided to give the engine a proper send-off. The result is the Seven 310 Encore, a car that celebrates the Sigma’s contribution while offering enthusiasts one last chance to own it.
🔋 Performance and Engineering
The Seven 310 Encore is powered by the 1.6-litre Ford Sigma engine, producing 152 bhp. In a car weighing just over 500 kg, this translates into thrilling performance:
- 0–60 mph in 4.9 seconds
- Top speed of 130 mph
The Encore retains Caterham’s trademark lightweight chassis, available in both standard and large chassis formats, ensuring agility and responsiveness. It’s a car designed to deliver Caterham’s signature “go-kart” feel, rewarding drivers with unfiltered engagement.
🎨 Design and Styling
Caterham has given the Encore distinctive styling touches to set it apart:
- Six exclusive colour schemes with unique stripes
- Black Pack detailing (windscreen surround, headlight bowls, exhaust heat shield)
- Encore black leather seats with dark grey stitching
- Individually numbered plaques marking each of the 25 cars
These details elevate the Encore beyond a standard Seven, making it a collectible piece of Caterham history.
🛋️ Interior and Features
Inside, the Encore balances Caterham’s minimalist ethos with premium touches. The leather seats and bespoke stitching add refinement, while the numbered plaque reinforces exclusivity. Buyers can also choose from a range of options, including:
- High-intensity lights with LED daytime running lamps
- Race roll cage (though not compatible with weather equipment)
This ensures that each Encore can be tailored to its owner’s preferences, whether for road use or track days.
🌍 Exclusivity and Pricing
With only 25 examples being built, the Seven 310 Encore is one of the rarest Caterhams ever. Prices start at £39,995, reflecting both its limited nature and its role as the final Sigma-powered model. For collectors and enthusiasts, the Encore represents not just a car, but a piece of Caterham’s heritage.
🏁 Why the Encore Matters
The Seven 310 Encore is significant for several reasons:
- End of an era: It marks the retirement of the Ford Sigma engine after nearly 20 years.
- Collector’s appeal: Limited to 25 units, it’s destined to become a sought-after classic.
- Driving purity: It embodies Caterham’s philosophy of lightweight, analogue driving in a modern package.
For Caterham, the Encore is both a farewell and a celebration—a way to honor the Sigma while looking ahead to future powertrains.
✨ Conclusion
The Caterham Seven 310 Encore is more than just a car; it’s a tribute to the Ford Sigma engine and its role in shaping Caterham’s modern identity. With its 152 bhp engine, lightweight chassis, exclusive styling, and limited production run, the Encore offers enthusiasts a rare opportunity to own a piece of history. As Caterham transitions to new powertrains, the 310 Encore stands as a fitting finale to one of the brand’s most beloved engines.