Caterham, a British sports car manufacturer, has partnered with the Royal Air Force (RAF) to create a unique crossover build called the Caterham RAF Seven 360R. This collaboration aims to raise funds for injured service men and women through an auction on the Collecting Cars site. The RAF provided parts from a retired Puma HC2 helicopter, which entered service in 1972, to be incorporated into the construction of the Caterham Seven.
Underneath the Caterham RAF Seven’s custom exterior, it features a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 180 bhp. This power allows the lightweight sports car, weighing only 1,274 pounds, to accelerate swiftly. Although the Caterham’s performance figures pale in comparison to the Puma helicopter’s immense power of 3,600 hp and 7,970-lb weight, the sports car boasts an impressive 0.14 horsepower-per-pound ratio.
The design of the Caterham RAF Seven pays homage to its aviation roots. The aluminum skin from the Puma’s doors and tail boom forms the body of the sports car, with the section bearing the XW232 tail number proudly displayed alongside the car’s cockpit. The entirety of the crossover build is painted with NATO Green, complemented by Desert Sand accents on the sills and center tunnel.
Inside the Caterham RAF Seven, subtle details further highlight its connection to aviation. The rear bulkhead of the car’s cockpit proudly showcases the emergency jettison handle from the Puma helicopter’s door. The carbon fiber seats, driveshaft tunnel, and internal bodysides are lined with quilted soundproofing from the Puma, providing both comfort and a visual reminder of the crossover build’s origins. RAF patches and stitched Pumas adorn the headrests, while the satin black dash panel incorporates switchgear from the Puma’s controls.
To complete the aviation-inspired theme, the Caterham RAF Seven features a clock taken directly from the Puma, resembling a Bell & Ross timepiece. Even the battery box of the sports car has been repurposed from an ammo box used in the Puma helicopter, adding an extra touch of authenticity to the build.
The one-of-a-kind Caterham RAF Seven made its debut at the British Formula 1 Grand Prix and will subsequently embark on a tour before being auctioned. Caterham, the RAF, Mission Motorsport, and the Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund intend to raise at least £100,000 ($120,060 U.S.) from the auction. All proceeds will go towards supporting injured service men and women. Bidding for this unique crossover build will commence on August 15 and conclude on September 12.
By combining elements from the world of aviation and automotive engineering, the Caterham RAF Seven 360R not only offers car enthusiasts an extraordinary driving experience but also serves as a symbol of appreciation for the brave men and women who have dedicated their lives to serving in the armed forces.
