2005 Saleen S7 Twin Turbo: A Quick Look

December 6, 2004 — A standing-room only audience was in attendance at the 2005 Los Angeles Auto Show to witness the unveiling of the new S7 Twin Turbo.

Looking fast yet standing still, the LizStick-red S7 Twin Turbo sported a new 750 horspower V8 producing 700 lb-ft of torque. Numerous engineering changes were required to incorporate the addition of the twin-ball-bearing and water-cooled Saleen-Garrett turbochargers featuring whopping 44-mm wastegates and providing 5.5 psi of boost. Dual electric fuel pumps now feed the array of high-capacity, return-less, 52-lb/hr fuel injectors. A re-calibrated Saleen PowerFlash computer handles engine management.

Putting power to the ground is a new six-speed transaxle mated to larger Michelin Pilot Sport PS2 tires, 275/35R19s up front and 335/30R20s in the rear, adding nearly 1.5 inches to the footprint. Revised suspension geometry and new dual-stage coil springs help provide a softer ride during normal street driving. At speeds of around 100 mph, the second stiffer springs, affected by high-speed downforce, help provide improved handling characteristics when a softer ride is no longer desired.

To attain higher speeds and improve stability, revised front and rear diffusers provide a 40 percent reduction in areo drag and a 60 percent increase in down force. While high-speed performance testing has yet to be finalized, the estimated top speed is an impressive 240 mph.

The 2005 S7 Twin Turbo — America’s premiere supercar — has an MSRP of $555,000. Compared to its competition (which will have a hard time keeping-up) it’s a bargain.

The LA Auto Show is open to the public from January 7-16, 2005 at the Los Angeles Convention Center. Also on display at the Saleen booth is the 2005 S281 Supercharged Mustang and the N20 Focus.

Mustang fans will also see the new Mustang convertible at the Ford booth. More information about the show is available at: http://www.laautoshow.com.

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