Saleen S281
| Saleen S-281 | |
|---|---|
 |
|
| Overview | |
| Manufacturer | Saleen, Incorporated |
| Production | 1996 - 2010 |
| Assembly | Irvine, California & Troy, Michigan |
| Body and chassis | |
| Class | Sports car |
| Body style | 2-door coupe 2-door convertible |
| Layout | FR layout |
| Related | Ford Mustang Mercury Cougar |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine | 4.6 L V8, 220 hp (160 kW) to 550 hp (410 kW) |
| Transmission | 4 or 5-Speed automatic 5 or 6-Speed manual |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 107.1 in (2,720 mm) |
| Length | 189 in (4,801 mm) |
| Width | 74 in (1,880 mm) |
| Height | 56 in (1,422 mm) |
| Curb weight | 3,550 lb (1,610 kg) |
| Chronology | |
| Predecessor | Saleen Mustang |
| Successor | SMS 460/SMS 460X (2010) |
The Saleen S-281 is a variant introduced between the 4th and 5th generations of Ford Mustang which was produced by the American manufacturer Saleen, Inc. By 2005, Saleen departed from being a company of modifying existing Ford Mustangs as well as various other Ford automobiles, and became an Original equipment manufacturer. This was easily distinguishable with the body work designed by Phil Frank on the S-281's as well as the various other models offered by Saleen.
Previously referred to as Saleen Mustang, Saleen now introduced a model designation based on the Cubic Inch Displacement (CID) of the engine, now referring the car as Saleen 281 CID, or simply S-281. Any distinguishable options purchased by the customer is indicated with a suffix added after the 281, designating its difference.
From its first introduction in 1996 until 2009, the S-281 has been introduced in several variations:
Several models were introduced:
Making its debut in 1995, the Saleen 281 utilized a naturally aspirated stock 4.6L 2V SOHC V8 engine rated at 220 horsepower (164 kW). This model also received Racecraft brand suspension upgrades as well as an aerodynamic body kit installed. The S-281 model was commonly based on a Mustang 4.6L GT and became the flagship model for Saleen with the largest production of all Saleen vehicles until 2009. When the New Edge Mustang first appeared in 1999, the horsepower rating increased to 285 (213 kW) due to various engine improvements. With the introduction of the Fifth-generation Ford Mustang, the designation was now recognized as S281-3V for the use of three valves per cylinder in the engine – now rated at 335 horsepower (250 kW).
The Supercharged version of the S-281 was first introduced as an option for the New Edge Mustang in 1999 with a horsepower rating of 350 (261 kW). Designated as Saleen 281 CID SuperCharged, this designation was widely recognized as a separate model in 2000 with more options becoming available by Saleen. Notable internal differences of an S-281SC introduced a dual gauge instrument cluster above the dashboard, while the only external difference was a Saleen Heat Extractor hood. With the introduction of the Fifth-generation Ford Mustang, the supercharger was now installed in an upside-down configuration to provide better performance and a higher horsepower rating of 465 (347 kW).
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