2007 Caparo T1 review

Caparo T1 review:

The same engineers that help deliver the iconic McLaren F1, developed the Caparo T1, a two seat sports car who exceed 1 000bhp per tonne.

''To demonstrate our understanding of these fundamental vehicle engineering issues we set out to design an optimum package for delivering 1,000bhp-per-tonne,'' says Caparo co-founder Ben Scott-Geddes. ''Interestingly, the sweet spot on the curve that satisfies many of these issues is 500 horsepower in a vehicle with a mass of 500kg.''

The T1 is an ultra-lightweight car capable of reaching 100mph in five seconds, with a top speed exceeding 200mph depending on the adjustable aerodynamic set-up which will offer enough downforce to corner at more than 3gs

However, in terms of addressing industry issues such as safety and CO2 emission, the car will showcase the consultancy's core credentials. ''Concept vehicles are ten-a-penny and this is more than a one-off prototype," says Scott-Geddes. "The only way to truly convince car makers that we have the experience and skills to design and engineer a safe, reliable, cost-efficient albeit high-performance car is to actually design and build one. We then have something to discuss.''

The T1 powertrain comprises a bespoke 2.4-litre supercharged V8 aluminium engine with a mass of approximately 85kg. Similarly, the 6-speed sequential transmission with magnesium casing is a bespoke design with a mass of approximately 30kg. The carbon/aluminium honeycomb monocoque features a separate composite crash structure at the front, while the rear sub-frame specifies aerospace grade steel.

The non carbon-fibre steel suspension, for example, illustrates the company's ability to specify structural materials that can deliver the maximum performance at the lowest possible cost. Overall, the 150 000 GBP price tag underlines the company's ability to design and build an exclusive car at a relatively low price despite its ultra high performance.