SEMA 2009: Saleen S281, cranking performance up a notch (photos)

The name Saleen is synonymous with performance and, of course, the Mustang. Well, the company is at it again! The 2009 SEMA Show marked the introduction of the all-new S281, which takes the California brand’s performance to another level. This four-wheel bomb is motivated by a 485-horsepower engine and built on a totally-revamped chassis.


Mike Shields, President and CEO of Saleen, was visibly proud to present this latest evolution hot on the heels of the 4535S, officially launched in July.

"After 25 years, we continue to demonstrate that Saleen is capable of producing incomparably dynamic cars," he said. "This S281 is the result of the hard work of our entire team and I’m particularly pleased with what we’ve accomplished."

Design Director Dave Byron, who helped supervise the project, feels the same way. "The new 2010 Mustang served as an excellent foundation. Still, we made changes across the board, with an emphasis on styling. Every seam, every panel has received the Saleen treatment," he told us.

Style and character
Mr. Byron believes that the S281 is the purest expression of the Saleen character through the years. "We focused on the elements that are familiar to us, like the rear section, but with the addition of a sleek spoiler, the car looks even more dynamic," he said.

Up front, the grille has been downsized yet remains equally aggressive, while the sharper hood lines make for a clean, sculpted look that still accommodates the necessary air intakes. "The car is unmistakable at first glance even from hundreds of metres away."

Power and stability
No self-respecting Saleen would be complete without a host of technical components that increase power and enhance driving dynamics. The S281 boasts a 4.6-litre twin-turbo V8 that’s good for 485 horsepower and 460 pounds-feet of torque.