Caterham 7
Reliability, running costs, and MOT data across 3 years from 114 real MOT tests.
Avg Pass Rate
95%
Total Tests
114
Best Year
1997 (100%)
Years Covered
3
About the Caterham 7
The Caterham 7 has been tested 114 times in 2026 MOT data across 3 model years (1997 to 2003), with an average pass rate of 95%. That's comfortably above the national average of 82%, making it a reliable choice. Available as petrol.
Best and Worst Years
The 1997 model is the most reliable with a 100% pass rate from 47 tests. The 1998 model has the lowest at 86%. The 14 point spread between years means reliability varies somewhat, but no year is dramatically different.
Mileage Across Years
The oldest model in our data (1997) averages 22,134 miles, while the newest (2003) averages 23,642 miles.
Compared to the Caterham brand average of 91%, the 7 performs 4 points better, making it one of the more reliable options in the Caterham range.
Estimated Running Costs
Based on 7,400 miles/year, current fuel prices, and MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
Full 2003 detailsHow reliable is the Caterham 7?
Caterham 7 by Year
Click any year to see detailed running costs, reliability data, and comparisons with similar cars.
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