The 1988 Ford Ranger Saleen Sportruck is a fascinatng chapter in the history of American performance vehicles. Long before the era of modern super-trucks, Steve Saleen applied his championship-winning formula to the compact Ford pickup. This specific example, identified as Saleen number 88-0009, is a remarkable time capsule with only 1,681 miles on the odometer. It represents incredible scarcity as number 9 of only 24 units produced for the 1988 model year. Furthermore, it holds the distinction of being the only Sportruck finished in Regatta Blue for that production cycle. It remains in highly original condition, complete with the original window sticker and temporary tag still affixed. This vehicle is set to cross the block at Kissimmee 2026 on Thursday, January 15th. It serves as a rare opportunity for Mopar and Ford collectors to acquire a truly low-mileage racing artifact. The truck even bears the personal signature of Steve Saleen, verifying its heritage and collector status.
Exterior styling for the 1988 Ford Ranger Saleen Sportruck was revolutionary for a utility vehicle in the late eighties. The Regatta Blue paint is accented by unique Saleen ground effects that give the truck a much lower, aggressive stance. Color-keyed alloy wheels match the bodywork, creating a cohesive and custom look that was ahead of its time. Twin exhaust tips exit the rear, hinting at the mechanical tuning performed by the Saleen team. Tinted glass adds a touch of privacy and helps protect the well-preserved interior from sun damage. Because of its exceptionally low mileage, the paint and body panels remain in showroom-quality condition. Every detail, from the specialized decals to the original temporary tag, has been carefully preserved by its previous owners. This truck does not just look fast; it embodies the aerodynamic lessons Saleen learned on the racetrack. It remains one of the most distinctive visual packages ever applied to a first-generation Ranger.
Racecraft Suspension and Precision Handling Components
While most pickups of the era were built for work, the 1988 Ford Ranger Saleen Sportruck was built for the corners. Steve Saleen equipped these limited-edition trucks with a specialized Racecraft suspension system. This setup significantly improved the handling characteristics of the compact Ranger, making it much more agile. Power front disc brakes and power steering were included to ensure the driver maintained total control during spirited runs. The lowered center of gravity allows the truck to feel more like a sports car than a standard hauler. Additionally, the truck features color-keyed wheels that were specifically chosen for this performance package. These components work together to provide a driving experience that was unmatched in the compact truck segment. Even today, the engineering behind the Racecraft system is respected by enthusiasts who value balanced chassis tuning. It transformed the humble Ranger into a genuine performance machine capable of surprising much more expensive cars.
Sport Bucket Seats and Custom MOMO Appointments
The interior of this 1988 Ford Ranger Saleen Sportruck is just as specialized as the mechanical hardware. Gray and blue sport bucket seats provide the necessary support for high-lateral G maneuvers on the street or track. A striking blue MOMO steering wheel serves as the centerpiece of the driver’s cockpit. To track speed accurately, Saleen installed custom gauge dials featuring a 140 MPH speedometer. For comfort, the cabin is equipped with air conditioning, cruise control, and a tilt steering column. A Pioneer Super Tuner III radio provides a period-correct audio experience for the next lucky owner. Every surface in the cabin reflects the 1,681-mile history, showing almost no signs of wear or age. The gray and blue color palette perfectly complements the unique Regatta Blue exterior finish. It is a cabin designed for a driver who appreciates the intersection of luxury and racing heritage. This interior remains a perfect example of late-eighties performance aesthetics.
Fuel-Injected V-6 Power and 5-Speed Manual Specs
The 1988 Ford Ranger Saleen Sportruck is powered by a fuel-injected 2.9L V-6 engine. This powerplant provides a smooth and reliable delivery of torque that is perfect for the light-weight chassis. It is paired with a 5-speed manual transmission, allowing the driver to fully exploit the engine’s powerband. This manual gearbox is a key feature for collectors who value an engaging and tactile driving experience. Performance is further enhanced by the custom twin-tip exhaust system which reduces backpressure. With its low mileage, the engine bay remains clean and displays all the original factory and Saleen markings. This powertrain setup focuses on balance and responsiveness rather than raw straight-line speed. It offers a unique mechanical character that distinguishes it from standard Ford production models of the time. The combination of the V-6 and the 5-speed manual ensures that the Sportruck remains a joy to drive on any winding road.
1988 Ford Ranger Saleen Sportruck Summary
The 1988 Ford Ranger Saleen Sportruck is a landmark vehicle that successfully merged the world of racing with the utility of a pickup. As one of only 24 produced in 1988, its rarity is unquestionable among modern classic collectors. The fact that it is the sole Regatta Blue example makes it a true “one-of-one” for that specific year. With only 1,681 miles, it represents one of the best-preserved examples of Steve Saleen’s early work. The inclusion of the Racecraft suspension and MOMO interior components highlights the comprehensive nature of the Saleen conversion. It remains a functional piece of automotive history that is ready for both the concours lawn and the auction stage. Bidders will appreciate the authentic documentation, including the original window sticker and temp tag. This truck is a testament to an era when performance had no boundaries. It is a must-have for any serious Ford or Saleen enthusiast looking for the best of the best. Lot T251 is sure to be a highlight of the Kissimmee 2026 event.
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Source: mecum.com
