DuelsLeaderboardGarageBlogCarsGlossaryBrowse

Saleen

Car culture term

Saleen
Photo: Axion23 / Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 2.0

What is Saleen?

American Ford-focused tuner and limited-production manufacturer founded 1983 by Steve Saleen. Famous for Saleen Mustangs and the S7 supercar.

Saleen is an American Ford-focused tuner founded in 1983 by Steve Saleen, originally as a Saleen Mustang specialist. The company has expanded over decades to include limited-production original Saleen vehicles (most famously the Saleen S7 mid-engine supercar), aftermarket Mustang parts, and Saleen-branded variants of various Ford products.

Saleen Mustangs are the company core product. Saleen Mustangs are typically distinguished by complete bodywork conversions (different front bumper, side skirts, rear bumper), supercharger upgrades, and significant interior modifications. The S281 (based on Mustang GT) and S302 (based on Mustang Boss 302) variants have run across multiple Mustang generations. Production volumes are small (typically dozens to hundreds per year per variant).

The Saleen S7 (2000-2009) was the company most ambitious project: a mid-engine American supercar with Ford 7.0 V8 making 550 horsepower (later 750 in twin-turbo form) and racing pedigree. The car competed in international GT racing including Le Mans. Approximately 84 production S7s were built. Pricing was around $400,000-$500,000 new; modern values have appreciated significantly.

Related terms

RoushHennessey

Frequently asked questions

Who founded Saleen?
Steve Saleen, an American race car driver and businessman, founded Saleen in 1983 originally as Saleen Mustang specialist. Saleen has been involved in numerous racing programs (Trans-Am, IMSA GT racing) and has expanded the company beyond just tuning into limited-production vehicle manufacturing.
How much does a Saleen S7 cost?
New, the S7 ranged from approximately $400,000 to $550,000 depending on year and variant. The twin-turbo S7 was at the higher end. Used S7 prices have appreciated; clean low-mile S7 examples now sell for $400,000-$700,000+ depending on specification and condition. Production was limited to approximately 84 cars.
Is the Saleen S7 still made?
No. Saleen S7 production ended in 2009. The company has not announced a successor to the S7. Saleen continues other product lines (Mustang variants, parts business, electric vehicle programs) but the S7 line is retired.
Why did Saleen succeed where others failed?
Multiple factors. Steve Saleen racing background provided credibility in performance circles. The supercharger expertise on Mustang platforms was technically sophisticated. The Saleen S7 ambition (a real American supercar competing with Ferrari and Lamborghini) succeeded where some attempts (like the Bricklin) failed. The brand has maintained sustained operation despite some financial challenges.
Are Saleen parts available aftermarket?
Yes. Saleen sells parts (suspension components, exhaust systems, body kits, supercharger systems) through authorized dealers and online stores. Saleen body kits for Mustang GT are particularly popular. Pricing varies by component but generally premium compared to non-Saleen aftermarket alternatives.
Back to Glossary