Tag Archives: Heritage Edition

SALEEN CODENAME “WIDOW MAKER” UNVEILED AS 2009 “DARK HORSE”

SALEEN CODENAME “WIDOW MAKER” UNVEILED AS 2009 “DARK HORSE”

Willow Springs International Raceway, Rosamond, CA — September 24, 2008 — by SOEC/Saleen Forums News Saleen CEO Chris Theodore officially presented its latest limited edition Mustang on the grounds of the fastes track in the west. “Dark Horse is the meanest, darkest and fastest Saleen yet,” said Theodore, who only last month took over the top position at the automaker and shifting gears from the job of chief technical officer.

2009 Saleen Dark Horse
2009 Saleen Dark Horse, CEO Chris Theodore

The Dark Horse powerplant is SAE-rated at 620 horsepower with 600 foot-pounds of torque, though it gets a little boost from Speedlab’s SuperShaker supplying exclusive styling while enhancing performance. “The vehicle takes advantage of the ram effect into the SuperShaker air box,” states Dan Agnew, Powertrain Engineering Manager, “It increases pressure in the air box, which adds boost by 0.5 psi and holds air charge temperature relatively constant even with the higher boost.” The Dark Horse powertrain also features a Saleen port-matched Series VI integrated screw-type supercharger, forged aluminum pistons, forged steel connecting rods, and orged steel crankshaft. While the SAE-certified horsepower rating does not necessarily reflect the full benefits of the SuperShaker, it does exhibit itself on the track with neck-wrenching acceleration.

The new Dark Horse combines the power and handling of the Saleen Extreme with Heritage body stylings. Its black body color, flat black exterior graphics, blacked-out trim and black chrome wheels make up the exterior. A Ford navigation system, sport leather seating with Alcantara inserts, and red anodized shift gate and leather-wrapped shifter are featured in the cockpit.

“The Dark Horse provides the capability of extreme horsepower and provides the detailed look our customers expect. By merging the SuperShaker with the Extreme powertrain we have created a no compromise solution for people looking for both performance and classic Mustang looks,” states Marc Musial, Chief Powertrain Engineer.

The Dark Horse’s suspension features everything you would expect from a Saleen, including a second generation Watts-link. The package is impressive, and provides sure-footedness around the tight road course of the Streets of Willow at high speeds, tight turns and aggressive braking. It is considered the most intense Saleen ride yet.

Originally code-named “WM” or the “Widow Maker,” the Dark Horse will be a limited edition of 25 coupes and begin production in November 2008. Pricing is to be announced, but should run in the $89,000-plus range.

SOEC, founded in 1991, is the premiere organization for Saleen owners and enthusiasts, with thousands of members worldwide.

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[Source: Saleen Owners and Enthusiasts Club]

“DARK HORSE” TO BECOME LATEST SALEEN LIMITED EDITION

IRVINE, CA — September 19, 2008 — SOEC/Saleen Forums News — Saleen’s 2009 lineup is getting a new limited edition Heritage-based “Dark Horse” model, and it’s promising to gallop its way to Southern California next week.

This new moniker will feature traditionally aggressive Saleen Heritage designs, including the new SuperShaker intake. Said to produce 620-horsepower and 600 pounds-feet of torque, the stout 302 should be able to breathe effortlessly with its shaker hood.

The Dark Horse will also feature unique interior stylings, and will be produced in a limited edition of only 25. Be sure to check back late next week for photos and details.

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UPDATE: 07-0022H SPEEDLAB 302

Update from Bob.

Dave,

I have managed to get to two Saleen events at dealerships; one in Niles, MI where they had the S7 and S5 on display as well as the New Hudson, MI event. The only car show I have managed to get the vehicle in was the Carnival of Cars at the Packard Proving Grounds in Shelby Township, MI. I received an award/placard for “most outstanding vehicle” in my class.

I have attached some photo’s taken just before and most recent (two of which are at a classic show at Coyote Joe’s Friday event). I also included a “spy” photo of my car while in Troy. You can see the corporate Parnelli car next to mine. On the other side was a red S7 under a plastic cover.

I know it’s late, I will still send you two or three “quality” photo’s in a nice spot with proper lighting. I was hoping to have the Nitto’s with stretched Heritage rims on for them as well. This is due to be complete on Wednesday.

Ps. Since I have also met three additional Saleen enthusiasts with vehicles and hope to attend an event with all present (2 SN95 bodies both SC’s and one 2005 S281SC)

Regards,
Bob McQueen

DAN GURNEY SIGNATURE EVENT AT GALPIN FORD: JUNE 13, 2008

Saleen / Dan Gurney Edition
Saleen / Dan Gurney Edition

Saleen cordially invites SOEC members and Saleen owners to attend — if you can bring your Saleen to show off, that would be great!

Hosted at Galpin Ford, Dan Gurney will be present for autographs and to show off his Dan Gurney Signature Edition Saleen. Also present will be Saleen executives.

Public hours from 6:00-8:00 p.m. at Galpin Ford.

Saleen owners are encouraged to attend — please RSVP if possible to jimd@soec.org or 714-369-8621.

Galpin Ford
15505 Roscoe Blvd
North Hills, CA 91343
Driving Directions
Tel: 800-256-7137

For more information on the Dan Gurney Signature Edition, please visit http://www.saleen.com/gurney/

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A LOOK AT 07-0022H SPEEDLAB 302

A note from Bob McQueen regarding his recently delivered Speedlab modified 2007 Heritage Edition.

Dave,

I just got the car back and have not had an opportunity to take any “quality” photos; but I do have some.

The car is a 2007 Heritage bumper #22. It was purchased from Russ Milne Ford with the side window delete, rear window sport louver, 373 rear gear, and the 475hp supercharger was added before I took delivery. After driving the car it did not take long for me to realize that I was into the rev limiter extremely fast and although the car was extremely nimble I missed the higher torque range I had been accustomed to with vehicles previously owned.

After reviewing information with Keith Batko the General Manager of Russ Milne Ford (I call him Mr. Mustang as he not only has vast knowledge of Mustangs and Saleen products but has one of the larger collections in Michigan) I decided to have the car sent back to Saleen for the engine to be pulled and stroked to the H302 specifications with forged internals, increased intercooling capacity, additional fuel delivery, and performance clutch. Saleen recommended that I upgrade to the 6 speed Tremec transmission but I was already beyond my budget so I chose not to opt for that this year (I had also added the front brake system, Watts Linkage at the rear, Rockford Fossgate sound system and painted valve covers with Saleen logo for the shows, H302 hood for added cooling, and Saleen gas door). For this reason the motor is not tuned to capacity as Saleen did not feel comfortable with the stock transmission.

With the changes made all I can say is that this car is wicked. It handles better than I could have imagined and the power is phenomenal. Next year I will certainly add the Tremec, tune, and some tires that will handle the power and suspension! This car offers the best of two worlds; style and handling; Muscle and power!

Bob McQueen

SALEEN PARTNER’S WITH AN AMERICAN ICON TO CREATE AN AMERICAN LEGEND

New York, NY (March 20, 2008) – Saleen Automotive, America’s premiere automotive enthusiast brand for over a quarter of a century, announced today at the New York Auto Show that it has entered into a partnership with American automotive legend Dan Gurney for creation of a special Gurney Signature Edition Mustang. ”It is amazing that just two years ago Saleen was standing on stage here at the Javitz Center with Parnelli Jones and today we are with his long time rival and friend, and truthfully one of America’s racing heroes, Mr. Dan Gurney,” said Saleen President and CEO Paul Wilbur.

All 300 of the Gurney Signature Edition vehicles will feature Saleen’s 465 Hp supercharged 281 cubic inch engine, short throw shifter, and 3.73 Max Grip rear axle. In addition, the vehicles will have custom two-tone seats that feature either blue or red AlcantaraTM inserts designed to keep your rear end planted firmly behind the wheel. The legendary Gurney Eagle© logo is featured on the steering wheel and several other places around the car.

The exterior reflects the look of Dan’s 1969 Trans Am series Mustang, masterfully recreated in a fashion that honors history but looks aggressively towards the future. The heritage styled Gurney Edition body kit, ‘duck bill’ rear spoiler and ‘stinger’ style hood all come together in harmony with the carefully placed graphics and die cut Gurney Eagle insignia. “I am pleased that they could make a car that is so beautiful but still so true to my old race car. At the end of the day, all I really want is a car that is faster than Parnelli’s” said racing great, Dan Gurney.

Saleen executives were not prepared to make that statement, but what they did say is: “this is likely the best all around 281 supercharged car that Saleen has ever built,” commented Saleen General Manager, Marques McCammon.

“Dan Gurney has always been about business on the track. His cars were light, fast and handled like they were on rails,” said Saleen Vice Chairman and Chief Technical Officer, Chris Theodore. “I’ll admit we added a little weight when we added the blower to this car, but you will be shocked at how this car cuts through a corner.”

The Gurney Signature Edition gets its dynamic ability from the specially tuned Racecraft suspension, Generation-II Watts-Link Rear End, and super sticky Pirelli Corsa tires. This is a suspension combination that has never before been featured on a Saleen vehicle, and one that received the personal stamp from Dan Gurney himself.

“It is like a dream come true to spend time on the tarmac with the Gurney’s. Together, we will create a package that I am sure that market will love,” said Chassis and Dynamics Lead Derk Hartland.

The Gurney Signature Edition Mustang is slated to begin production this April and should start appearing in dealers later that month. With production being limited to only 300 cars, the Gurney Edition is sure to be a must have amongst collectors. In honor of Mr. Gurney’s ‘All American Racer persona the cars will be offered in only three colors: Torch Red, Performance White, and the feature color Vista Blue. One hundred of each color will be made with contrasting color graphics and interiors, and a set of “#2” roundels to truly relive the Gurney experience.

The most important piece of the car to me is Dan Gurney’s signature on the center of the dash,” commented Wilbur. “ I view it as the stamp of approval by one of America’s greatest drivers”

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SALEEN PAYS HOMAGE TO LEGENDARY MUSTANGS WITH THE 2008 HERITAGE PRODUCT LINE LAUNCH

Irvine, CA (November 14, 2007) –Saleen Automotive took the wraps off of its 2008 MY product during an exclusive press event held on the runway of the retired the El Toro Marine base. The new product launch is designed to show the world why Saleen is and will continue to be America’s premiere niche vehicle manufacturer.

Among the new 2008 MY products is a model line that has been coded H and features two new vehicles, the H302 producing 390HP and the H302SC with 580HP. The Heritage line vehicles represent a new interpretation of the Saleen aesthetic. Both models include Saleen built engines and honor the traditional Mustang heritage.

“The ‘H’ designator signifies Heritage,” say’s Marques McCammon, General Manager of Saleen Automotive. “These models honor some the great heritage of the Mustang in a way that is uniquely Saleen.”

The H line draws its inspiration from the late sixties Boss 302 Mustang and is a real compliment to the Ford family Heritage,” says Saleen Vice Chairman and Chief Technical Officer, Chris Theodore.

THE HARDWARE

Both vehicles feature an all new, Saleen built, 302 cubic inch engine that represents a marriage of race technology and production performance engineering.

Saleen started with 5 axis CNC ported cylinder heads then added a new forged crankshaft, forged connecting rods, forged aluminum pistons, performance crankshafts and high flow fuel injectors. The result is a 390Hp engine that provides the heart of the new H302.

“The 302 engine is the best engine that we have ever done,” states Rob Simons, Saleen Powertrain Lead.

If the H302 has not harnessed enough horses for your taste, the engineering team at Saleen has added their patented twin screw intercooled supercharger to

serve as the core for the H302SC giving it a pavement pounding 580Hp and 525 lb-ft of torque.

This engine, when married to a smooth shifting short throw and six speed manual transmission, gives the H302SC a performance profile comparable to any contemporary exotic, but in a way that is truly American.

As with every Saleen, the new H line vehicles are more than just powertrains. Both vehicles feature custom Saleen Racecraft suspensions tune specifically to the vehicles weight and horsepower profiles giving them responsiveness and stability.

“Many companies simply throw horsepower at a vehicle without adequate consideration to making the power usable. We look to find balance, and that is the difference between Saleen as a manufacturer and the typical aftermarket tuner,” says Theodore.

Stopping power for the H302SC is delivered by standard 14” front vented slotted rotors grabber by 6 piston calipers. Control is augmented by the 4 wheel ABS and brake assisted traction control. Lateral stability is enhanced by a Gen 2 Watts Link system that is option on the H302 and standard on the H302SC. Grip is provided by Pirelli wrapped 19” Forged aluminum Alloy wheels that are available in bright painted silver or chrome. On the H302SC customers can opt up for a 19” 7 spoke painted forged wheel.

“The market has not driven a Saleen like our new Heritage line. They have great throttle response, they shift smoothly and they carve through the corners,” says Chassis and Dynamics Engineering Lead, Derk Hartland.

STYLING AND DESIGN

As with all Saleen vehicles, the H line leaves nothing to be desired from a styling perspective. The H302 features eye popping aesthetics like the new front and rear fascias, rockers and heritage spoiler. The exterior package is rounded out by the matt black body graphics and the shaker hood which is featured on the H302. On the supercharged model a power bulge aluminum hood with functional cooling vents brings function to form. On the inside, the unique seat trim features stone gray Alcantara accents and a laser etched shift knob.

PRODUCTION AND PRICING

The H302 began production in October and the H302SC is slated to begin production in early December. The naturally aspirated car’s production will be limited to 500 units and the supercharged car will be more exclusive at only 200 units. Both the H302 and the H302SC feature a manufacturer’s bumper to bumper warranty: 3 years and 36000 miles on the H302, 12 months and 12,000 miles on the H302SC.

“We tried to make sure that we kept the vehicles attainable while maintaining their exclusivity,” says McCammon. The base price of the H302 is set at $56,999 with the H302SC slightly higher at $74,999.

“Customers will be delighted with the Heritage line and all the new Saleen products. They will be delighted because we are committing ourselves to surpassing their expectations. It is a new day at Saleen Automotive. It’s something that we call the Reawakening and the principle is simple. Give more than you promised,” comments, Saleen Inc President and CEO, Paul Wilbur.