Continuing the concept of a basic road/competition car for the enthusiast, established successfully by the Mark VI, Lotus's most enduring model - the Seven - arrived in 1957 and, much developed and modified, continues in production today courtesy of Caterham Cars, which acquired the rights to the design in 1973.

The S1 established the basic pattern - tubular spaceframe chassis, uncomplicated open bodywork, wishbone IFS, live rear axle - that would characterise all four Series, while a variety of engines was available right from the start, A strengthened chassis with stressed front bulkhead distinguished the S3 version, which would be the one taken up later by Caterham.

Agile, responsive and capable of out-accelerating and out-handling many a larger-engined rival, the Seven remains an exciting driver's car for the discerning enthusiast.

Sole authorised manufacturers of the Lotus Seven since 1973, Caterham began by building the Series 4 but soon switched to the more traditionally styl...