Saleen to reduce 2009 production, offer “Super Saleen”

Next year’s line of Saleen products will be cut back and will only feature the upscale varieties of their limited edition models. They’re calling it their ‘Pinnacle’ campaign, but it may very well be a response to the scaling back of the 2009 Ford Mustang production run.

“The campaign for the year is titled ‘the Pinnacle,’ as we intend to solidify Saleen’s position as the leader in exclusive performance vehicles,” says Marques McCammon, General manager at Saleen Automotive. “My vision is to move the brand up with more exclusivity in every model, with fewer, more substantive offerings.”

The reduction will be most noticeable in Saleen’s Heritage line, as 2009 will only see the continuation of the Dan Gurney edition and a to-be-revealed ‘Super Saleen’ that’s currently being codenamed “WM.”

Notice the new wheels in the photo above? That’s the kind of superior design the aftermarket company is presenting in 2009 in addition to some new exterior… [Read More]

Saleen’s SpeedLab introduces SuperShaker air induction for S197 Ford Mustangs

Every day, Ford MoCo and the expansive aftermarket industry strive to incorporate the newest technological advances with the spirit of the classic pony car. Saleen’s SpeedLab recently announced a new offering that will allow enthusiasts to bring another classic modification to their S197 Ford Mustangs with the new Supershaker air induction system.

Using the Saleen series VI intercooled supercharger, the Supershaker technology will allow enthusiasts to combine two schools of air induction—both the “ram air” design and functionality of a genuine shaker hood is united with the forced air induction system.

“For the first time ever, consumers do not have to sacrifice muscle car styling to get more power and performance,” says Michael Lingo, Vice President & General Manager of Saleen’s Aftermarket Division. “The SpeedLab SuperShaker puts real muscle under your hood producing power that can be seen and heard.”

The system is designed for all 2005-current Mustang models and will allow for an increased total power output from 500-700 horsepower.

“We are very excited to offer this one of a kind… [Read More]

Steve Saleen introduces 2008 SMS Twenty Fifth Anniversary Ford Mustang

Steve Saleen has never settled for mediocrity. He has been in the business for 25 years, and his ambition has always been reflected in the products with his name on them—the latest being the 2008 SMS Twenty Fifth Anniversary Ford Mustang.

“In celebration of my 25 years in the niche manufacturing business I wanted to create a personal car for myself that appropriately marks this very special Anniversary,” says Saleen. “The functional aesthetic innovations that we have developed are truly exceptional in every way. Though this car is not going to be for sale, it nevertheless demonstrates the technological advances present at SMS.”

Wait—not for sale? Ouch. Anyhow, the vehicle features plenty of aesthetic fluff, but technical and mechanical innovations abound through the steed as a reminder of the distinction of SMS Limited from the rest of the pack.

“My Anniversary cars were always the most powerful of the breed and this car continues that tradition, as this engine produces 720 Horsepower at the crank and 612 Horsepower at the rear wheels!” says Saleen. “And the exhaust note truly is something else. Topped… [Read More]

Saleen “Racecraft” vehicle line debuts with 420S Mustang

The Mustang market seems to be headed back to the track. Recently, aftermarket giant Saleen sent a notice to dealers announcing their new ‘Racecraft’ branded vehicles. That’s right—the nameplate that was previously only associated with their successful line of components will now be associated with an entire line of vehicles.

“Today’s competitive marketplace has created unprecedented challenges,” the letter from Saleen said. “In listening to your Saleen dealer needs we are introducing a new brand of performance products, fully warranted at a more competitive price point.”

The first vehicle to run under the Racecraft nameplate will be the 420S Mustang, loaded with plenty of Saleen goodies, including a … [Read More]

2008 Dan Gurney Signature Edition Saleens arrive at dealerships

The battle has begun. The folks at Saleen wanted to reignite the rivalry between two American motorsports legends, and they got it.

This week, the 2008 Dan Gurney Signature Edition Saleen hit select dealers nationwide. Only 300 are being produced—that’s 100 in each color (Torch Red, Performance White, and the feature color Vista Blue).

The car is loaded with aftermarket goodies—specially tuned Racecraft suspension, Generation-II Watts-Link Rear End, 19” wheels fitted with Pirelli Corsas, short throw shifter, 3.73 Max Grip rear axle and Saleen’s 465hp supercharged beast beneath the hood. Add to all of that plenty of race-inspired graphics and logos run throughout the vehicle.

True race gurus would note that Dan Gurney’s old racer was no Mustang, but in fact …[Read More]

Saleen’s 302 crate engines for sale through Speedlab Division

Even during a gas crunch when the government has tightened gas standards, the 5.0L engine is being given another chance to relive its glory days. The next model of the Ford Mustang is projected to have a 5.0L option, and aftermarket companies, including Saleen, have responded accordingly.

We’ve seen Saleen’s 302 cubic inch engine in the past few years used in their Parnelli Jones Edition, the Heritage Series, as well as the 25th Anniversary Sterling Edition.

But for the first time in the aftermarket giant’s history, Read More…

Concept: The S5S Raptor from Saleen (Pics and Video)

When looking for a tasteful blend of power, performance and style, look no further than Saleen’s current lineup. The aftermarket giants from Irvine recently revealed their S5S Raptor at the New York Auto Show.

StangPlanet missed the show but had a chance to get up close to the concept. While it’s no Mustang, we thought you’d want to see it if you haven’t yet. And with a 5.0L engine pushing out 650 horsepower and 630 lb-ft. of torque, it’s everything a Mustang enthusiast can appreciate.

But aside from power, the Raptor also has its claws around another concept: Read More…