Saleen: A Journey from the Heart of a Racer
to America’s Supercar
OPENS SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 16
It is a rare breed of automotive trailblazers that are able to move from upper echelon race car drivers to OEM manufacturers of fine automobiles and supercars. The ranks of this rarefied group include names such as Ferrari, Shelby, Chevrolet. Steve Saleen is one of those individuals and the company he founded has a rich history of innovation, design and engineering distinction. The Saleen Exhibit at America’s Car Museum celebrates companies founded by racers while keeping the focus on Steve, his company and, most importantly, the cars.
ABOUT SALEEN: An incredible race history with the performance design of the Saleen Mustang, to one of the world’s most renowned super cars, the Saleen S7, CEO & Founder Steve Saleen has carved out a reputation that truly ranks with the most celebrated performance vehicle designers in history. Saleen’s entrepreneurial business plan laid the groundwork for an entire new industry of design, engineering, manufacturing, and sales of high-performance vehicles that were race-proven and marketed for sales through showrooms nationwide.
SALEEN & CAFFEINE: COFFEE & DONUTS WITH STEVE SALEEN
NOVEMBER 16th | 9 – 11 am
This is your opportunity to meet one of the most successful and well-known automotive legends in the country – Steve Saleen! Enjoy coffee by ANTHEM coffee and donuts by Original House of Donuts, while being the first to view a legacy of racing and road cars by Steve Saleen. TICKETS ON SALE SOON!Learn more.
Published on Sep 27, 2019
This video is about a beautiful Saleen S7-R I saw in action at Monza Circuit last weekend. The car is chassis 029R and it’s the first one of the “Evolution” version built from 2004 in California rather than in UK by RML like the first series (S7R was totally redesigned, both on the aero and especially on the constructive side). It was raced in the 2004 ALMS under the Acemco colours and in the 2009 FIA GT championship with K plus K Motorsport team.
Now this S7R has been restored by Art & Revs and it’s used in the Endurance Racing Legends series around Europe. Listen to the mighty roar of the 7.0 N/A V8 engine!
BaT Essentials
Lot #23521
Seller: eric.ames
Location: Lees Summit, Missouri 64082
Chassis: 1FABP28M1GF257690
84k Miles Shown
5.0-Liter High Output V8
Five-Speed Manual Transmission
Saleen Package
#109 of 201 Examples Produced
Longterm Orignal Ownership
Black over Two-Tone Gray
2017 Repaint
New Saleen Cladding & Graphics
Build Sheet
Factory Literature
Clean Carfax Report
Private Party or Dealer: Private Party
1986 Ford Saleen Mustang
86-0109 Saleen Mustang
This 1986 Ford Saleen Mustang reportedly remained with the original owner until 2016 and was acquired two years ago by the seller, who has since added approximately 500 of the 84k indicated miles. Finished in black over gray cloth, the car is one of 201 Saleen examples produced for the model year and is powered by a 5.0-liter V8 mated to a five-speed manual transmission. A repaint was performed in 2017, after which replacement Saleen lower body moldings and graphics were installed. This Fox-Body Mustang is now offered with its build sheet, factory literature, service records, photos of the repaint process, a clean Carfax report, and a clean Missouri title in the seller’s name.
86-0109 Saleen Mustang
The exterior was repainted in 2017 after the car was backed into on the second day of the seller’s ownership. A 1985-model hood was sourced and installed, and one headlight was replaced. Some hail damage on the roof was also repaired, and rust near the passenger-side quarter window was corrected. New weather stripping was installed after the paintwork along with new Saleen lower body cladding and graphics.
86-0109 Saleen Mustang
16” basketweave wheels feature Saleen center caps and wear 225/50 Uniroyal Tiger Paw tires. The Saleen package added an upgraded Racecraft suspension system with Koni shocks, and an aftermarket rear strut tower brace is noted. The front brakes are said to have been replaced by the seller.
86-0109 Saleen Mustang
The interior features two-tone gray cloth upholstery with red piping on the seat inserts. Factory equipment includes air conditioning, power windows, and power locks.
86-0109 Saleen Mustang
A three-spoke steering wheel fronts “Saleen Mustang”-branded primary instrumentation, including a 170-mph speedometer and a 7k-rpm tachometer. This car is equipped with an optional Escort radar detector, which includes an overhead plug. The seller notes poor audio quality from the stock Kenwood stereo, as well as a crack in the dash top center speaker cover. The five-digit odometer shows just under 84k miles.
86-0109 Saleen Mustang
The 5.0-liter V8 sends power to the rear wheels through a five-speed manual transmission and was rated at 200 horsepower and 285 lb-ft of torque when new. Recent maintenance is said to have included an oil change and the installation of a replacement battery, and the seller notes a whining sound when the car is in reverse. An aftermarket cat-back exhaust system has been added.
86-0109 Saleen Mustang
Additional pictures of the underside and suspension components are provided in the gallery below.
86-0109 Saleen Mustang
The build sheet is included along with factory manuals and Saleen literature.
The recent Carfax report shows no accidents or other issues through its most recent entry in December 2018. A clean AutoCheck from October 2017 is pictured in the gallery.
14 drivers competed at Road America on Sept 21, for the penultimate round of Saleen’s single-make racing series, driving the new Saleen 1 model
Paul Terry of Nephi, Utah and Austin Riley of Ontario, Canada lead 2019 points heading into the Saleen Cup series finale in Las Vegas in mid-October
ELKHART LAKE, Wisc. (Sept 23, 2019) — The battle for points continued in the penultimate round of the Saleen Cup, held at Road America in Elkhart Lake, Wisc. September 21 as 14 drivers competed in the single-make racing series by California-based Saleen Automotive.
The Saleen Cup series was introduced to demonstrate the new Saleen 1 sports car while offering a turnkey racing experience for drivers in two distinct classes. The “Pro-Am Drivers” class includes experienced racing drivers, while a “Young Drivers” class gives prospective young drivers an opportunity to start a career in professional motorsports. Category champions in the Saleen Cup will each secure a factory seat driving in Saleen’s GT4 entry for the entire 2020 season.
Mathew Keegan of Ladera Ranch, Calif. stood atop the podium in the “Pro-Am Drivers” class after Saturday’s race, while Carter Fartuch of Schnecksville, Penn. took top position in the “Young Drivers” class after highly competitive race at the historic Wisconsin circuit. A second race scheduled for Sunday, Sept. 22 was canceled due to inclement weather.
Road America Results – Saturday, Sept 21:
Pro-Am Drivers
First Place – (#15) Mathew Keegan
Second Place – (#4) Paul Terry
Third Place – (#6) Johan Schwartz
Young Drivers
First Place – (#18) Carter Fartuch
Second Place – (#12) Austin Riley
Third Place – (#5) Ricco Shlaimoun
The Road America races mark the third of four events in the 2019 Saleen Cup schedule, culminating in a grand finale event at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, Oct. 18-20. As the initial return to professional-level motorsports for Saleen Automotive, the Saleen Cup series will pave the way for the company’s first entry into GT4 in 2020.
“Our team and drivers have made immense progress during the past few events,” said Steve Saleen, CEO and founder of Saleen Automotive. “The close points race is proof of the caliber of drivers that are competing in the inaugural series and based on the lap times we’ve recorded this season, the Saleen 1 will be very competitive in GT4 next year.”
2019 Saleen Cup – Top Points Standings “Pro-Am Drivers” Class (as of 9.23.19)
Paul Terry – Nephi, Utah (69 points)
Brandon Davis – Sonoma, Calif. (66 points)
Martina Kwan – Los Angeles (50 points)
2019 Saleen Cup – Top Points Standings “Young Drivers” Class (as of 9.23.19)
The Saleen Cup delivers a professional-quality racing experience, with a grid of fully prepared Saleen 1 Cup Cars featuring Iconic, Contemporary and Saleen racing liveries in bold, designer colorways. Full trackside support and hospitality amenities add to the professional-level racing experience. The Saleen Cup is presented via a partnership with SRO Motorsports Group, and runs concurrently with the Blancpain GT World Challenge America. Trackside tire support for the entire Saleen Cup is provided by series sponsor Continental Tires.
For more information on the Saleen Cup, visit www.SaleenCup.com. For more information on the Saleen 1 model, visit www.Saleen.com, or follow Saleen on social by using on Facebook at Facebook.com/Saleen, or by using @Saleen on Twitter and @Saleen on Instagram.
About Saleen Automotive, Inc.
Saleen is dedicated to transforming the transportation experience. For over 35 years, the California-based automotive manufacturer has redefined driving through high-performing vehicles that combine championship-winning racing pedigree with innovative technology and distinctive styling.
From the first Saleen Mustang in 1984 to the legendary S7 in 2000 and the groundbreaking new Saleen 1, founder Steve Saleen has continually set the bar for vehicle design and performance engineering on streets and racetracks worldwide. In addition to its distinctive Saleen Signature and Saleen Original vehicle lines, Saleen offers a wide variety of technical parts, lifestyle accessories and apparel for those with a passion for performance. Learn more at www.saleen.com.
Contacts
Media Contact:
Saleen PR – Collin Whitley
cwhitley@Saleen.com
The first day of racing is done at Road America, congrats to our top qualifiers, Brandon Davis in the pro-am division and Cameron Lawrence in our young division. We’re looking forward to tomorrow’s races! #saleen #saleencup #saleen1
Thanks to Tony Brodzeller for bringing 99-0008 S281, and Mark Mielczarek for bringing 95-0024 S351 by for a visit!
Road America started with a great parade and event and a foggy morning of practice. We’re looking forward to it clearing up as we move through practices this afternoon and qualifying early this evening. Make sure you tune in to the live feed for our two races this weekend at 10:35 CT on Saturday and 4:10 CT on Sunday! https://live.sro-america.com/saleen-cup.
Lot #645 2005 FORD MUSTANG SALEEN EXTREME PROTOTYPE #001
Auction: Las Vegas 2019
Reserve: NO RESERVE
Status: Available
Price Request Bidder Info
Lot: 645
Year: 2005
Make: FORD
Model: MUSTANG SALEEN
Style: EXTREME PROTOTYPE
Description
Lot #645 – This is a fully documented 2005 Saleen Extreme S281 R&D Prototype finished in Speedlab Yellow over a Dark Charcoal leather interior with black graphics. It’s a true one-of-one car with 21,727 actual miles, most of which occurred during factory testing, and is powered by a 4.6-liter V8 engine backed by a 6-speed manual transmission.
Saleen did not release the Extreme model to the general public for purchase until 2006. This Saleen was used as the promotional Extreme model, which was unveiled at the Chicago and New York auto shows, generating pre-orders for 2006 production. This exact car can also be found within factory promotional literature. The 2005 Extreme Prototype story is very unique. In the Saleen production logs there were three prototypes set for production in 2005: #0001E, #0002E and #0003E. In reality, the #0003E car was never actually produced. The #0002E car, Sonic Blue in color, was purchased by an R&D employee and totaled while driving in the rain a short time after. This #0001E car is not only the first 2005 Extreme prototype but also the only remaining prototype in existence for the ’05-09 lineage. Many components on the car are hand-built and first of their kind, from the quarter-window deletes and carbon diffusers to a host of custom Saleen internal engine components.
In 2018 the 05-0001E was shipped to Corona, CA, not only for firsthand factory authentication, but to attend the Saleen World Car Show. For the show, the Saleen family selected one car from each production lineage to be parked in front of headquarters on display, and the 05-0001E was selected to represent the ’05-09 lineage. Ultimately, the one-of-a-kind 05-0001E was selected to receive The Best of Show award. While at Saleen Headquarters, Steve Saleen personally signed the dash with the #1 designation, and signed the engine compartment as well. Molly Saleen also signed her picture endorsing the 05-0001E at the show. All documented signatures, video of Steve Saleen signing 05-0001E, signed Factory Authentication Letter, processed Saleen Best of Show Award check, Saleen World Car Show numbered vehicle entry pass, and a factory brochure with 05-0001E featured will accompany the car. CARFAX shows Ford Motor Company manufacturer safety recall issued on 01/27/2019: Passenger airbag inflator replacement.
Back in 1984, Steve Saleen upgraded a Fox Body Mustang with a sweet body kit, added a Racecraft suspension, larger wheels and tires, and a big-ass wing, among other cool bits. It was an instant hit and won races at the track and on the streets. If you grew up on the East Coast, it was the type of car usually driven by guys named Tony and gals named Tina. They’d do donuts next to Coney Island’s Wonder Wheel and cruise up and down the Jersey Shore all summer long.
Fast forward 35 years and despite plenty of business-related twists, turns, and detours along the way, Saleen is still kicking and still cranking out some seriously modded Mustangs. The latest Ford Mustang GT is already one hell of a car, and Saleen’s S302 White Label treatment makes it even better—despite a name that reminds us of a new line of perfume or a special batch of homegrown hooch.
2019 Saleen S302 White Label
The S302 White Label is the tamest pony in the Corona, California–based tuner’s present day corral, checking in with 15 more horses than the base GT at 475 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque. The increase is thanks to a few minor enhancements, but mainly its performance exhaust system. The V-8 is mated to a six-speed manual transmission fitted with a fun-to-operate short-throw shifter. Mash the pedal, listen to the engine roar, drop it into gear, and away you go in a cloud of smoke.
While it’s not a supercharged beast like Saleen’s higher-spec Yellow and Black Label Mustangs—read our recent review of the 800-HP Black Label here—the ride and handling of the 35th Anniversary Edition S302 White Label has been dialed up dynamically thanks to a unique Saleen strut tower brace and a specially tuned Racecraft suspension.
Visually, the Saleen package screams, “Hey, look at me!” and you’ll get plenty of stares and thumps up while racing from stop light to stop light thanks to a Saleen-specific front fascia; a rear wing; and distinct, 20-inch five-spoke wheels that sit over bright-yellow four-piston calipers. It’s a look that was nicely complemented by our test car’s Oxford White paint and would be right at home in towns from Bakerfield to Bensonhurst, where this pumped-up pony car would be welcomed with open arms. The SALEEN windshield sticker and custom grille with a thin red accent will further announce the car’s specialness, as will that throaty growl emanating from the custom exhaust and mufflers. It was certainly sweet music to our ears.
2019 Saleen S302 White Label
If you’re the massive-horsepower type, you can always step up to Saleen’s aforementioned supercharged Yellow Label with 715 horsepower or the super-duper-charged 800-hp Black Label. We had a chance to sample the White and Black Labels back-to-back, and while we appreciate the latter’s extra ponies, the White Label version is more tractable and feels just right. Don’t get us wrong, the Black Label is wicked fun, but is more akin to a race horse with anger-management issues—exhilarating to ride but difficult to tame.
Inside, the White Label looks a lot like a similarly priced 2019 Mustang GT Coupe Premium trim model minus the leather-trimmed seats. Our Saleen test car came with black cloth seats instead, albeit with Saleen-branded headrests. It also featured a sporty Saleen steering wheel in leather and suede, white face gauges, a billet shifter, Saleen quarter window covers, and B-pillar trim. The limited-production car also sports a serialized dash plaque and embroidered floor mats to let any passengers who happened to completely overlook the exterior cosmetics know this isn’t your garden-variety Mustang.
The Saleen 302 White Label also comes with a three-year/36,000-mile limited powertrain warranty. Even better, the test model we drove checked in at a relatively affordable $47,195. If you’re looking for a somewhat unique Mustang that can roam at the front of the pack with the best stock GTs, look no further. Now excuse us—we need to drive this beast to Nathan’s for some clams.
