CATERHAM SUPER 7 (2003)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 44 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
86%
Total Tests (2024)
44
Avg Mileage
19,755 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,677
Is the 2003 CATERHAM SUPER 7 reliable?
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's close to the national average of 82%. It falls below the CATERHAM brand average of 91%.
At 21 years old, 86% of CATERHAM SUPER 7s from 2003 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 44 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 19,755 miles.
How does the 2003 CATERHAM SUPER 7 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2003 CATERHAM SUPER 7 has 19,755 miles on the clock, which is significantly below the expected 155,400 miles for a 21-year-old car. Low-mileage examples may have spent time sitting unused, so check for issues like corroded brakes or perished rubber seals.
Best year to buy a CATERHAM SUPER 7?
The most reliable year is the 1997 model with a 93% MOT pass rate, while the 1999 model has the lowest at 82%. The 2003 sits between the two at 86%.
How much does a 2003 CATERHAM SUPER 7 cost to run?
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
CATERHAM SUPER 7 by Year
Checking a specific CATERHAM SUPER 7?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2003 CATERHAM SUPER 7
The 2003 CATERHAM SUPER 7 is a small family car with a 1595cc petrol engine. 44 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a rare model on UK roads. It ranks in the top 11% of all 2003 cars for reliability.
With an average of 19,755 miles at 21 years old, CATERHAM SUPER 7 owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver. Very low mileage could mean the car has been garaged or used only for short trips, which can cause its own issues like battery drain and moisture buildup.
2003 CATERHAM SUPER 7 Fuel Costs
The 1595cc petrol engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 42 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,137 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 2003 CATERHAM SUPER 7?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,677 (£140/month), broken down as £1137 fuel, £135 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 86% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
Buying a Used 2003 CATERHAM SUPER 7
At 21 years old, the CATERHAM SUPER 7 is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. If you're flexible on year, the 1997 model has the highest pass rate at 93%. Note: with only 44 tests in our data, these figures should be treated as indicative rather than definitive.
Alternatives to the 2003 CATERHAM SUPER 7
The CATERHAM SUPER 7 is actually the most reliable option among similar petrol small family cars from this era. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- MINI MINI (2005) 71% pass rate (-15%) from 45,707 tests
- FORD FOCUS (2005) 71% pass rate (-15%) from 41,794 tests
- FORD FIESTA (2003) 71% pass rate (-15%) from 29,898 tests
- TOYOTA YARIS (2005) 73% pass rate (-13%) from 29,754 tests