2005 Saleen Mustang 281

The Saleen S281 was introduced in 1996 and became the flagship of the Saleen line of specially modified custom automobiles. Saleen Automotive is headquartered in Corona, California, and was founded in 1983 by Steve Saleen. Prior to the S281, they were referred to as Saleen Mustangs but were now distinguished as a model designation based on the Cubic Inch Displacement (CID) of the engine. Additional options purchased by the customer were included with a suffix added after the 281 (i.e. the supercharged versions were S-281SC). Production of the S-281 lasted from 1996 through 2010.

When introduced in 1996, the Saleen 281 was equipped with a naturally aspirated 4.6-liter SOHC 2V V8 engine delivering 220 horsepower. Additional upgrades included an aerodynamic body kit and Racecraft brand suspension. The Fifth-generation of the Ford Mustang brought about a new Saleen designation, the S281-3V, in reference to the three valves per cylinder in the engine, now delivering 335 horsepower.

The S-281SC was introduced in 1999 and was rated at 350 horsepower. The S-281 Cobra followed the introduction of the SVT Cobra in 1996. The 4.6-liter 4V DOHC V8 engine was left in stock form, delivering 320 horsepower. Saleen modifications included an aerodynamic body kit and Racecraft suspension upgrades.

By Daniel Vaughan | Aug 2020

This Saleen S281 Coupe was assembled in the Irvine, CA Saleen factory in February of 2005 and equipped with a five-speed automatic transmission. It is finished in Sonic Blue Clearcoat with a Dark Charcoal leather interior. It has Silver graphics, Chrome Alloy Wheels and Saleen Wheel and Tire upgrade (20x10 Chrome rear).
By Daniel Vaughan | Aug 2020