The turn of the millennium brought forth a distinctive era of Mustang customization. The 2000 Ford Mustang Saleen S281 SC stands as a potent example of this performance tuning. Steve Saleen’s company transformed the standard Mustang into a formidable machine. This particular S281 SC is a rare coupe finished in Silver. With just 16,000 miles on the odometer, it is an exceptionally well-preserved New Edge example. This car represents a significant piece of modern American muscle history.
Saleen Bodywork and Exterior Styling
The exterior is immediately recognizable due to the distinctive Saleen components. It is finished in Silver (YN) and features contrasting black bodyside stripes. The design includes a specific Saleen hood scoop and revised bumper covers. Matching side skirts and louvered side scoops enhance the aggressive profile. A prominent rear wing completes the custom Saleen aerodynamic package. Power-adjustable side mirrors are integrated into the design.
Chassis, Brakes, and Racecraft Components
The car sits on chrome-finished 18-inch Saleen five-spoke alloy wheels. These wheels are mounted with staggered Toyo T1 Sport tires. The Saleen S281 SC utilizes specialized Racecraft suspension components. These include Saleen struts and variable-rate springs. The setup retains the factory MacPherson front suspension and live rear axle. Stopping power comes from four-wheel disc brakes. The front setup features Saleen-branded calipers and large 13-inch discs.
Cabin Appointments and Custom Details
The interior features comfortable seating trimmed in Dark Charcoal leather. The Mustang logo is embroidered on the seatbacks, a subtle touch. A serialized Saleen console plaque identifies the car’s unique number. This plaque is mounted just ahead of the close-ratio short-throw shifter. Interior amenities include cruise control and air conditioning. The driver benefits from a power-adjustable seat.
Instrumentation and Sound System
The leather-wrapped steering wheel frames Saleen-specific white-faced gauges. The speedometer is calibrated to a highly optimistic 200 mph. A 7,000-rpm tachometer sits alongside the standard monitoring gauges. Additional gauges for boost pressure and intercooler temperature are located above the center stack. Entertainment is provided by a Mach 460 sound system. This includes a convenient in-dash six-disc CD player.
The Core Performance: Engine and Drivetrain Specs
This S281 SC is motivated by a supercharged 4.6-liter SOHC V8 engine. The “SC” designation confirms the installation of a Saleen Roots-style supercharger. An intercooler helps manage the air intake temperature for better efficiency. The engine also features a chrome air intake tube and a K&N conical air filter. Power is routed through a Saleen Quick-Ratio five-speed manual transmission. A limited-slip differential transfers power to the rear wheels, enhancing traction.
Summary of This 2000 Ford Mustang Saleen S281 SC
This 2000 Ford Mustang Saleen S281 SC coupe is a stellar representation of early 2000s performance tuning. With only 16,000 miles, it has been well-maintained and documented. The supercharged 4.6-liter V8 and five-speed manual gearbox offer a thrilling driving experience. Saleen’s comprehensive upgrades, from the bodywork to the Racecraft suspension, create a focused machine. This particular car, listed with desirable one-of-one build details, is a highly collectible New Edge Mustang variant.
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Source: bringatrailer.com
