Caterham Seven 310 Encore Marks the End of the Sigma Era

The Sigma engine has powered various models since 2007, delivering the sort of responsive, naturally aspirated character that aligns perfectly with Caterham’s lightweight, driver-centric ethos. It also draws a line under a legacy of more than 50 years of Ford-supplied engines. Looking ahead, Caterham is expected to build on its recently announced partnership with Horse Powertrains, which provides a 1.3-litre turbocharged triple for the Academy Series.

Fittingly, the 310 Encore features the most powerful iteration of the 1.6-litre Sigma engine ever fitted to a Caterham, producing 152bhp at 7000rpm and 168Nm of torque. Paired with a five-speed manual transmission, the Encore tips the scales at just 540kg, resulting in a power-to-weight ratio of 281bhp per tonne. Performance is suitably brisk, with 0–60mph taking 4.9 seconds and a top speed of 127mph.

Further upgrades include a lightened flywheel, a sport suspension package and uprated brakes, including 254mm vented front discs and distinctive red quad-piston callipers. Caterham claims the car is capable of lapping Donington Park’s National circuit in just 1 minute 18 seconds – proving the car’s enduring simplicity and lightweight philosophy still has value.

Visual flair hasn’t been overlooked either. The 310 Encore is offered in six exclusive paint colours, each inspired by a well-known song title. There’s a deep metallic shade called Blue Monday, reminiscent of New Order’s iconic album artwork, as well as Goodbye Yellow Brick Road, Green Light, Orange Crush, Back in Black and White Noise. These colours are paired with subtle styling changes, including carbon fibre front wings, a 620-style aero nose cone, black-finished trim and 13-inch black Apollo alloy wheels wrapped in Toyo R888R track tyres. The finished result is one of the best looking Caterhams ever assembled.

The interior continues the blend of weekend toy and trackday special. The dashboard is fashioned from carbon fibre and features bespoke dials and a numbered plaque to underline the car’s limited-run significance. Motorsport-inspired touches – including a removable MOMO steering wheel, gearshift light and standard four-point harnesses – contrast with black leather seats and dark grey stitching.

Reflecting on the significance of this final Sigma-powered model, Caterham CEO Bob Laishley said “For over 50 years the Caterham Seven has been powered to success by various versions of Ford’s four-cylinder naturally aspirated engine.

“From the simplicity of the original 1.6-litre Crossflow through to the sophisticated Sigma, these units have delivered a rare combination of punchy performance and manageable running costs. The Sigma also has incredible motorsport pedigree, having been at the heart of numerous Caterham race series for nearly two decades.

“As a result, the Seven 310 Encore really is a proper tribute to this long-lasting and unique association. Perfectly designed for road and track, it distils all the successes of the last half century into a unique vehicle that truly acts as a fitting celebration of the Ford Sigma’s indelible mark on Caterham history.”

Interested parties can enquire now via the Caterham website.