The Saleen Forums at soec.org

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-   2010-2012 Michigan-Built Mustangs with the Saleen name (https://saleenforums.soec.org/forumdisplay.php?f=126)
-   -   2010 Saleen 435S: High Performance Value. Unmistakably Saleen. (https://saleenforums.soec.org/showthread.php?t=5712)

Jess Albright 07-24-2009 05:45 PM

This is not supposed to look that different on the outside, thats what it seems many are missing here. The idea is just a performance version of the Mustang GT. The full S281 with a totally restyled body kit is coming in the fall.
This vehicle has the same SC kit on it that the 07-09 S281 cars have, the only difference is the exhaust does not come upgraded standard. So since the 475 was probably a bit stretched anyway and it has stock Ford GT exhaust we lowered the rating to 435. We would rather under promise and over deliver than the other way around.
As far as pricing goes, the base car will include the following as standard equipment for $9999.95 over Ford MSRP (Total Price varies if your talking about a Premium GT Or Deluxe GT)
Supercharger
Full Racecraft Suspension kit
Short throw shift kit
Saleen Cluster Applique
Saleen Deck lid Panel
Slotted and Drilled Rotors front and rear
18" Torque Blade wheels
Embroidered headrests
Exterior decal package

Some of the Optional accessories are:
Aero package (Chin Splitter, Rear Spoiler)
14" Brake upgrade package
19", and 20" wheel upgrades
Exhaust upgrade kit

Thank you
Jess

05 Mineral Grey S281 07-24-2009 07:24 PM

SPV New Car
 
For 9999.99 That sounds like a deal and a half! I'm sure with a little massaging this is the wolf in sheep's clothing. Hey Jess some people want all the glitz other people want the blood and guts go fast car. This is certianly the wolf, no doubt.

05 Mineral Grey S281 07-24-2009 07:27 PM

Info on New Car
 
Hey Jess,
Is there a way to download a brochure or can one be sent to us?

Greg Wackett 07-24-2009 07:40 PM

Jess,

Hope things are going well for you guys. I kind of like it, sedate. Can't wait to see the "S" cars. That price is a great value.

Good luck :)

MeNotYou 07-24-2009 09:06 PM

Got it...$10k for Charger, Suspension, and wheels...

Greg Wackett 07-24-2009 10:36 PM

Jess,

Again thank you for taking the time out of your busy mustang week schedule to provide us with factual details.

Saleen Forums Admin 07-24-2009 10:39 PM

We added the complete specifications and a downloadable "Hero Card" in the first post.

Thank you, Jess, for the pricing information.

67fire 07-25-2009 01:39 PM

Where? I scrolled down and read the small print, could not find the link?
As HotRodHarry said, I like the rear much better than the rest!
Who needs a "fake" gas cap?

Thanks,

Eric

Jim D. 07-25-2009 01:50 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 67fire (Post 21780)
Where? I scrolled down and read the small print, could not find the link?
As HotRodHarry said, I like the rear much better than the rest!
Who needs a "fake" gas cap?

Thanks,

Eric


Click on the image of the Hero Card up top.
<input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden">

67fire 07-25-2009 02:03 PM

Thanks! That, plus these:

"Some of the Optional accessories are: (implying that there is more?)
Aero package (Chin Splitter, Rear Spoiler)
14" Brake upgrade package
19", and 20" wheel upgrades
Exhaust upgrade kit"

Got it.

Eric

1hot281 07-25-2009 06:26 PM

Now i see why Steve is suing to keep his name of that... "thing"...

Looks like they raided the 05-09 parts bin,tossed on the Dan Gurney wheels and ordered some cheap body parts from CDC... threw some decals on and embroidered "Saleen" on the headrests...

MeNotYou 07-25-2009 10:06 PM

^Yeah its pretty sad....but they are getting away with it buy calling it their stripped down version built for speed not looks...It will cost over $42-47k and nobody will buy it right now...

saleen777 07-25-2009 10:49 PM

I don't know... I don't think i like it. I've grown accustom to my Saleens looking like nothing else on the road. This one is going to be mistaken for a plane old GT. I'll save for the SMS.

Dave 07-26-2009 12:09 AM

Lets figure there were California Sports, GT Sports, V6 Sports and the previous Racecraft Edition produced over the past 25-years. The idea on an entry-level, Saleen-kissed Mustang is not a new one.

The current incarnation does hold a familiar naming convention note, the 435S, which will tie the 2008 ½ - 2009 Racecraft 420S into the family. It was a peculiar vehicle since it was marketed as the non-Saleen, built by Saleen Inc, with Saleen parts… but it's a "Racecraft Vehicle?"

Quote:

Originally Posted by SCIT (Post 21661)
But I don't think an educated Saleen type customer is going to get behind this car. They had better go after a market than is not all familiar with Saleen history or even a Mustang fan.

They're not. Much like the previous entry-level Specials. The Specials have most always appealed to a different buying segment. Each Special carved a niche for the given era trend. It appeared the 2008 ½ - 2009 Racecraft 420S sold at a moderate pace and found a accepting public.

Historically the Specials are a curiosity since they seem to have a relatively low survival rate. If we use this forum and automotive fairs as a gauge… I believe we have two Racecraft owners registered and I’ve seen one owner RC at a show, to date.

Quote:

Originally Posted by jaiasmit (Post 21659)
Now, I'm wondering what the 18 inch wheels will look like and if they'll truly be the base model, or will the majority of these be produced with either the 19s or 20s.

Jess should know. I would guess the 18" would be the EuroMax used on the 2007 S281 Heritage and the 2008 ½ - 2009 Racecraft 420S.

If it were me, I would start the 435S model with a 19" standard. Since the 2010 GT has an 18" wheel as base; one up the factory offering. Then too... I don't know the amount of overstock MJA acquired.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jeepngli (Post 21660)
I think its a good idea to make a "budget" performance vehicle such as the Racecraft (which I absolutely love). However, I think putting Saleen on it might be a bad idea. They should have kept the Racecraft as the budget Saleen.

The only slight history-recording hiccup created is how the 420S will be a Racecraft branded vehicle, but the 435S is a Saleen. The 420S is now peculiar.

In terms of marketing... SALEEN holds more perceived value than RACECRAFT. Saleen = 25-Years of performance vehicles. Racecraft = A generic trade name.

Why take additional effort to build a new brand, when it's going to be built with equipment that either states SALEEN or hold flying S logos.

Quote:

Originally Posted by 1hot281 (Post 21795)
…body parts from CDC... threw some decals on and embroidered "Saleen" on the headrests...

Same basic strategy as the Racecraft 420S; that model worked well.

The aero kit on the 420S was a CDC/Ford Racing splitter and PJ/Heritage wing.

Quote:

Originally Posted by MeNotYou (Post 21805)
...stripped down version built for speed not looks...It will cost over $42-47k and nobody will buy it right now...

Kinda' tough to state, "nobody will buy it." The model wasn't officially released and no one here can say what will strike a sales nerve and what will not.

I think the standard Mustang buyer or speed freak will hold interest in the 435S Saleen. If you pick up a base GT for the estimated $28,000.00 or so… and opt for a 435S package at $10,000.00… after taxes and fees you’ll probably be in at 40K.

It should under-cut most of the tuner cars in terms of price and advertised equipment.

My only issue would be competition from FMC and Ford Racing Performance Parts. A buyer has the option, starting with the 2010 model, of a Track Pack suspension group. They can also request the selling dealer to equip their new steed with a FRPP Whipple before the sale and retain their 3/36,000 warranty. OR: A buyer can purchase the same $28K GT and have the dealer equip the vehicle with a FRPP suspension kit and Whipple before delivery and still retain the 3/36,000 from Ford.

If I were to offer an entry-level Saleen, I would have placed more into the styling and package. That's my only semi-complaint, flashbacks of another McCammon car.

I question how the PJ/Heritage wing looks mounted to the 2010 trunk since it was designed for the 2005-2009 lid. It would have been pretty novel to design a unique throwback whale-tail (as standard) to tie a key part of Saleen heritage into the car.

The hood decal is cool with the body color chevrons poking through, but then no need for a second pair of chevrons on the fenders. Overly stressing a Saleen connection. The 2008 ½ - 2009 Racecraft side striping was a feature that I liked on that model. Would have been neat to keep that idea... or once again… design a throwback decal kit and offer it in blue, gold, silver and black. The Racecraft Focus concept had a nice visual play with the wrap-around black side striping and color matched wheels.

Jeff had mentioned during Carlisle that the entry-level Saleen would feature center exit exhaust. I'm imagining that the 2005-2009 S-kit either protruded too far from a stock 2010 bumper... or had interference with the plate mount area. That would have been a cool item had it made the cut as a standard feature.

Basically, I would have liked to seen the 435S as more of a "package car," a trait Saleen (as a brand) was known for, and less of a "you finish yourself."

I understand the 435S and have no issue with it, but I can't say Saleen heritage will sell this model or that it will not get lost when inventoried on a sales lot. The car has a great chance to be a sales leader with a proven selection of parts for $10,000.00. The Saleen name is secondary for the 435S.

If I were to market the 435S... I would speak to the folks in the SCCA and NHRA to see how to competitively classify this vehicle for motorsports.

The Folks (Mike, Jeff, Jess) should be applauded for their efforts over the past six or so months. Parts supplying, owner's inquiries, etc.

Quote:

Originally Posted by saleen777 (Post 21809)
I don't know... ...I'll save for the SMS.

I'd agree. If you compare the SMS 460 to the 435S in terms of statement projected. The vehicles from Steve Saleen are an achievable dream. A reason to work hard, to make a visual and performance declaration when achieved.

Dreams Vs. Realities

DAVESIKE 07-26-2009 09:18 AM

two saleens..
 
all this has done imo is dilute the saleen name..you cant have two (2) saleens..and a saleen should be made by STEVE SALEEN..not mj acq or whatever..the cheap watered down 2010 validates this..and dont say its a cheap version due to the economic times..that is bs..
SMS buiild the cars..saleen/mj sell the old parts..car design is not for you.

DAVESIKE 07-26-2009 09:25 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 1hot281 (Post 21795)
Now i see why Steve is suing to keep his name of that... "thing"...

Looks like they raided the 05-09 parts bin,tossed on the Dan Gurney wheels and ordered some cheap body parts from CDC... threw some decals on and embroidered "Saleen" on the headrests...

Dude..i agree..that thing is hideous..

Dave 07-26-2009 12:08 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 06saleenX (Post 21657)
...and why do they insist on that side graphic, it does not flow, the letters are NOT CLEAN, looks like a child cut out decals an pasted them on the side...

Looking at the image, I might warrant a guess that the side decals and fender emblem were not on the car. Looks like digital editing. Some manipulation took place. Like the window tinting.

Quote:

Originally Posted by DAVESIKE (Post 21816)
...all this has done imo is dilute the saleen name..you cant have two (2) saleens...

Similar comments where made by the old Saleen Mustang Club based in So-Cal back when it was believed the S7 debut was going to be a Saleen Focus introduction. Their board went crazy with negativity. The 435S is not geared toward the tradition Saleen vehicle fan. I don't believe MJA expects folks with 2003 Speedsters or S197 Extremes to trade for a 435S.

Quote:

Originally Posted by DAVESIKE (Post 21817)
Dude..i agree..that thing is hideous..

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. If we use a few of the basic Mustang boards and message area as a gauge... some of those folks seem to like it. Garnering attention from a completely different audience.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jess Albright (Post 21732)
As far as pricing goes, the base car will include the following as standard equipment for $9999.95 over Ford MSRP (Total Price varies if your talking about a Premium GT Or Deluxe GT)

Will the 435S be produced off a Saleen supplied knock down Premium or Deluxe? Or from dealer stock or drop shipped? Can one purchase a GT equipped with the Ford offered accessory packages? 1, 4, 5 if they'd rather have Ford's wings and scoops. As well as if they'd rather go with Ford's 19" wheel package. Is the 435S an adaptable package?

MeNotYou 07-26-2009 12:23 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Dave (Post 21820)
Looking at the image, I might warrant a guess that the side decals and fender emblem were not on the car. Looks like digital editing. Some manipulation took place. Like the window tinting.

The hood decals said 420S along with the fender badges but were edited to show 435S...The side decals were just what they show...

Dave 07-26-2009 02:17 PM

From the members of Mustangweek.com:

http://i70.photobucket.com/albums/i9...24-2009035.jpg

http://i70.photobucket.com/albums/i9...24-2009034.jpg

http://i70.photobucket.com/albums/i9...24-2009033.jpg

http://i70.photobucket.com/albums/i9...24-2009032.jpg

http://i70.photobucket.com/albums/i9...24-2009039.jpg

http://s70.photobucket.com/albums/i9...art=0&newest=1

http://s70.photobucket.com/albums/i9...24-09/?start=0

MeNotYou 07-26-2009 02:59 PM

Nice mustang GT....got any pics of the saleen?


nevermind my bust...that is the new saleen...I thought it was just a plain mustang GT by the looks

DAVESIKE 07-26-2009 05:42 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by MeNotYou (Post 21829)
Nice mustang GT....got any pics of the saleen?


nevermind my bust...that is the new saleen...I thought it was just a plain mustang GT by the looks

i agree bro..your gonna carry the saleen name or any aftermarket name it should look diffrent...look at the saleen banner..its a joke..they wanna cash in on the name..its a joke..why not an mj banner..i cant help trashing that mess..its embarrasing to me as a proud true saleen owner..

05 Mineral Grey S281 07-26-2009 06:04 PM

New Saleen
 
I feel there is a niche market for this car, as far as it being a true Saleen or not- I'm sure this car runs great right out of the box and it does have a very sleeper looking body. If you don't like it, SPEND 25K more and buy an SMS model whenever it comes out, IT'S YOUR CHOICE! I think the SPV is a hot rodders SALEEN, and the SMS car is more the businessman's hot rod. But the SPV car will appeal to many because of PRICE and FUNCTIONALITY. Meaning it doesn't have to have all the eye candy to have a whole lot of fun. Isn't that how Mr. Saleen started anyhow?

MeNotYou 07-26-2009 07:18 PM

^Did you really say price will attract...When these hit the dealers please link me to one under $40k...btw good luck

DAVESIKE 07-26-2009 07:30 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Dave (Post 21820)
Looking at the image, I might warrant a guess that the side decals and fender emblem were not on the car. Looks like digital editing. Some manipulation took place. Like the window tinting.



Similar comments where made by the old Saleen Mustang Club based in So-Cal back when it was believed the S7 debut was going to be a Saleen Focus introduction. Their board went crazy with negativity. The 435S is not geared toward the tradition Saleen vehicle fan. I don't believe MJA expects folks with 2003 Speedsters or S197 Extremes to trade for a 435S.



Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. If we use a few of the basic Mustang boards and message area as a gauge... some of those folks seem to like it. Garnering attention from a completely different audience.



Will the 435S be produced off a Saleen supplied knock down Premium or Deluxe? Or from dealer stock or drop shipped? Can one purchase a GT equipped with the Ford offered accessory packages? 1, 4, 5 if they'd rather have Ford's wings and scoops. As well as if they'd rather go with Ford's 19" wheel package. Is the 435S an adaptable package?

Quote:

Originally Posted by 05 Mineral Grey S281 (Post 21833)
I feel there is a niche market for this car, as far as it being a true Saleen or not- I'm sure this car runs great right out of the box and it does have a very sleeper looking body. If you don't like it, SPEND 25K more and buy an SMS model whenever it comes out, IT'S YOUR CHOICE! I think the SPV is a hot rodders SALEEN, and the SMS car is more the businessman's hot rod. But the SPV car will appeal to many because of PRICE and FUNCTIONALITY. Meaning it doesn't have to have all the eye candy to have a whole lot of fun. Isn't that how Mr. Saleen started anyhow?

OK..SO I BUY A GT AND THROW ON SOME MODS..supercharger some wheels..bam..i got a saleen..probably do it nicer too...
dont mean to thrash it..but it does the saleen name zero justice..if there gonna use the name because they have legal right at least make a statement....anyone who wants a legit saleen will buy an sms anyhow.

DAVESIKE 07-26-2009 07:33 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 05 Mineral Grey S281 (Post 21833)
I feel there is a niche market for this car, as far as it being a true Saleen or not- I'm sure this car runs great right out of the box and it does have a very sleeper looking body. If you don't like it, SPEND 25K more and buy an SMS model whenever it comes out, IT'S YOUR CHOICE! I think the SPV is a hot rodders SALEEN, and the SMS car is more the businessman's hot rod. But the SPV car will appeal to many because of PRICE and FUNCTIONALITY. Meaning it doesn't have to have all the eye candy to have a whole lot of fun. Isn't that how Mr. Saleen started anyhow?

i couldnt afford a new saleen..i bought an 07 in march of 09 with 1242 miles for 38k..thought i did ok..this is right before all the warranty stuff hit..but to me a paid 38 for a brand new car that listed for 64,175.im happy..guess thats all the counts..

DAVESIKE 07-26-2009 07:37 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 05 Mineral Grey S281 (Post 21833)
I feel there is a niche market for this car, as far as it being a true Saleen or not- I'm sure this car runs great right out of the box and it does have a very sleeper looking body. If you don't like it, SPEND 25K more and buy an SMS model whenever it comes out, IT'S YOUR CHOICE! I think the SPV is a hot rodders SALEEN, and the SMS car is more the businessman's hot rod. But the SPV car will appeal to many because of PRICE and FUNCTIONALITY. Meaning it doesn't have to have all the eye candy to have a whole lot of fun. Isn't that how Mr. Saleen started anyhow?

PS..I work at a ford dealer..we have a preformance white SMS with vista roof , nav and some other goodies on order..car lists for $79000.
ill post pics when it comes in..sean from sms said maybe in august.got my fingers crossed.

05 Mineral Grey S281 07-26-2009 07:48 PM

79k?
 
Wow 79K ouch! Strike the 25K comment anyone for 35K??? If you want exclusivity as it is always been you will have to pay for it. I am curious anyone who seen the 435S at Mustang Week were these numbered cars as all Saleen cars have been?

Greg Wackett 07-26-2009 07:54 PM

I believe Jess said they would be # not sure and it looks like one of them is numbered 02.

05 Mineral Grey S281 07-26-2009 08:08 PM

Numbering
 
Thanks Greg just curious I wonder how many they plan on making this year or is it going to be a need basis? Should be interesting to see how many sell. The blog on Autoweek seemed to be very favorable of the SPV Mustang also, so we will have to see. I'd love to test drive one. I'm sure it runs well, but the 14" brake upgrade should be a forced option being that there will be a crazy or two who would think the GT brakes are good enough with an S/C installed.

Dave 07-26-2009 09:43 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 05 Mineral Grey S281 (Post 21843)
I am curious anyone who seen the 435S at Mustang Week were these numbered cars as all Saleen cars have been?

Quote:

Originally Posted by saleenlocator (Post 21844)
I believe Jess said they would be # not sure and it looks like one of them is numbered 02.

Jeff stated the same during Carlisle. This vehicle will be serialized.

Dave 07-26-2009 10:01 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by MeNotYou (Post 21829)
Nice mustang GT....got any pics of the saleen?

nevermind my bust...that is the new saleen...I thought it was just a plain mustang GT by the looks

Quote:

Originally Posted by DAVESIKE (Post 21832)
i cant help trashing that mess..its embarrasing to me as a proud true saleen owner..

I think we need to keep the tone in this thread at a respectful level. Play nice, or don't play.

Quote:

Originally Posted by 05 Mineral Grey S281 (Post 21833)
Meaning it doesn't have to have all the eye candy to have a whole lot of fun. Isn't that how Mr. Saleen started anyhow?

Saleen vehicles always had and were "eye candy."

DAVESIKE 07-26-2009 10:17 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Dave (Post 21849)
I think we need to keep the tone in this thread at a respectful level. Play nice, or don't play.

i got ya..just a strong opnion..thats all it is...one guys opnion..

Quote:

Originally Posted by Dave (Post 21849)
Saleen vehicles always had and were "eye candy."

thats what you pay for..and the power..got my little sc to 486rwhp..yahoooo

DAVESIKE 07-26-2009 10:24 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Dave (Post 21849)
I think we need to keep the tone in this thread at a respectful level. Play nice, or don't play.



Saleen vehicles always had and were "eye candy."

its hard for me to understand why you would want to produce a saleen without steve saleen behind it..its pure name recognition in hopes to sell a product.why not start your own brand name and build it up..roush only jumped on scene few years ago and they have a pretty nice ride.
well..i guess good luck to um because you want everyone to do well.
im sure there are people who will like the 435 and purchase one.

Dave 07-26-2009 10:28 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by DAVESIKE (Post 21852)
its hard for me to understand why you would want to produce a saleen without steve saleen behind it.

Find Jeff at a future event... and ask him.

We're not debating this here.

DAVESIKE 07-26-2009 10:42 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Dave (Post 21853)
Find Jeff at a future event... and ask him.

We're not debating this here.

ive spoke to jeff on phone few times..seems like a real nice guy.

im not tring to be a pain..really..just stating opinion.
you know the saying opninons are like ****oles..everyone has one..

peace out

67fire 07-27-2009 12:07 AM

The way that I see it is that you have even MORE options and price levels, to get a very nice car.
Mustang GT=$30,000 (with options, comes closer to, next)
435S=$42,000 (with options, comes closer to, next)
Etc,Etc, all the way to $100,000

Just pick your Poison! :smile:

Eric

Meikol02 07-27-2009 07:50 AM

Thanks Jess for the earlier comment. The explanation on the HP drop makes sense. I can even support leaving the exhaust out as the note is a very subjective thing that is easily upgraded to the exhaust of your choice.

Personally, I think subtle badging on a mainly stock exterior car would be better. With only a few items that really stand out, it looks like they were added as an afterthought from another car.

I guess I am up to my .10 cents now.

MeNotYou 07-27-2009 08:44 AM

Little lost...I was expressing my opinion...The new saleen looks like a regular GT..In fact the only thing IMO that stands out are the wheels. Without the wheels it looks like every single GT I have seen on the road...

jaiasmit 07-27-2009 09:47 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by MeNotYou (Post 21863)
Little lost...I was expressing my opinion...The new saleen looks like a regular GT..In fact the only thing IMO that stands out are the wheels. Without the wheels it looks like every single GT I have seen on the road...

That's the market they're going for. In the base Mustang (non-Saleen) market there are a ton of people that want a sleeper. The old adage "walk softly and carry a big stick" definitely applies to many. The idea of having a basically plain looking Mustang that will walk all over the majority of cars on the road is very appealing to many Mustang enthusiasts out there.

It may not be what Saleen owners are looking for, but there is definitely a market for it, and that's exactly what the new Saleen is going for.

MeNotYou 07-27-2009 10:17 AM

^But at $42-47K it doesnt make sense...Someone could build a better stang for thousands cheaper...They would have been better off keeping up with saleen styling then hoping some randoms will pay out the a** for a plain GT sleeper...


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