A unique Caterham RAF 360 roadster made from parts from a decommissioned helicopter will be put up for auction (9 photos)

Caterham Cars has unveiled the unique RAF 360 Roadster, built in conjunction with the Royal Air Force (RAF) using upholstery, interior components and other parts from a decommissioned Puma HC2 military helicopter. The car was created for charitable purposes: it will be sold at auction, and the proceeds will be transferred to a fund to help military personnel.





The basis was a standard Caterham 360R with a two-liter Ford naturally aspirated “four” producing 183 hp. and a five-speed manual transmission. The donor of the parts was the Puma XW232 helicopter, which entered service in 1972 and was decommissioned after 50 years of operation. It was used in operations in Northern Ireland, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo and Iraq during both Gulf conflicts - among others.

The aluminum lining of the helicopter's tail boom and doors was used for the exterior body panels of the sports car. The body was painted NATO green, with yellow accents symbolizing the desert sands. Puma XW232 quilted soundproofing material was used for the interior, while aircraft evacuation instructions were included on the seats.

The roadster's dashboard is also made in the style of the Puma HC2 using the original toggle switches and chronometer. A three-stage ignition system is also provided. The final Easter egg was hidden under the hood by placing the battery in an ammunition box.

Bidding for the Caterham RAF 360 will take place from August 15 to September 12 on the Collecting Cars online platform. The organizers hope to earn over 100 thousand British pounds ($128 thousand) for the lot.