The vehicles from Caterham Cars->ke1252 can all be traced back to the very first model created by Colin Chapman, the original 1957 Series 1 Lotus Seven->ke3209. Such an iconic car, as a finished vehicle or as a result of a kit, is behind every quirky model that has arisen from Caterham in their little over 50 years of existence. And, as a tribute to the history behind Caterham, the automaker has brought forth a special edition Roadsport 125 Monaco that takes the original's lightweight philosophy and its bespoke, retro styling to a modern level.

The Roadsport 125 Monaco will be distinguished by brushed aluminum bodywork that will also feature a black nose and wheel guards. A little more color is added with the red and white Monegasque flag that will run the length of the car. On the interior the car will get a hand-tailored black leather interior that is highlighted with red touches to bring out a casino-type feel. Specifically, these color choices were made to represent the roulette wheels found in Casino Square, but if you are not a gambler then you can always opt for the all black trim option. Other options for the vehicle include a wide SV chassis and a lowered floor.

Under the hood there is a 1.6-liter Ford engine mated to a 5-speed gearbox. The car sprints from 0 to 60 mph in less than six seconds and can hit a top speed of 112mph.

This special edition will be priced at £20,995, but the first 20 cars will be available for just £19,995.

Press release after the jump.

2011 Caterham Roadsport 125 Monaco

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2011 Caterham Roadsport 125 Monaco
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array

Press release

Caterham Cars is evoking the elegance, class and rich motorsport heritage of Monte Carlo with the latest Special Edition of its similarly timeless sportscar, the Roadsport 125 Monaco.

The latest incarnation of Caterham’s iconic Seven remains true to Colin Chapman’s original 1957 design in both its lightweight philosophy and its bespoke, retro styling.

Harking back to the golden era of motorsport, the Monaco features Caterham’s brushed aluminium bodywork, with black nose and wheel guards, while the familiar red and white of the Monegasque flag form a motif that runs the length of the car.

In the cockpit, the theme is naturally continued, with hand-tailored black leather interior featuring red highlights pairing with the black body trim to capture a colour scheme reminiscent of the roulette wheels found in Casino Square complete the evocative ‘50s feel.

The Monaco is the latest in a series of entry-level Caterham Special Editions which traditionally suffer little or no depreciation – the Beaulieu launched in 2001 now typically sells for more than its original list price.

For just £20,995, the Monaco combines Caterham’s thrilling performance and driving experience with a unique touch of European flare and glamour. However, the first 20 cars to be ordered are available for just £19,995.

Under the skin, the engineering is pure Caterham. The 1.6-litre Ford engine produces a top speed of 112mph and a power-to-weight ratio of 227bhp per tonne.

The 5-speed gearbox propels the lightweight 500kg chassis from 0-60mph in under six seconds and full weather kit means the Roadsport is thoroughly enjoyable in any conditions.

Options include the wide SV chassis and a lowered floor for extra comfort in the cockpit, while all black trim is also available.