The Saleen 1 is an all new mid-engine, two seater.
Saleen 1: Can This New Supercar Really Only Cost $100K
After its eyebrow-raising launch at the LA Auto Show, more details are emerging about the all-new Saleen 1. In particular, the modern, mid-engine coupe with supercar street cred will come with a $100,000 price tag.
For a car with such a low-volume production run, that’s an intriguing price point. Saleen Automotive says they intend to produce only 1,500 Saleen 1 units annually. So what does the Saleen 1 offer for $100K?
Saleen 1 Engine
The Saleen 1 features a 2.5-liter inline-four turbocharged engine, which doesn’t sound all that staggering at all. However the Saleen-designed engine produces 450 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque, which is very impressive considering what it has to work with.
The Saleen 1, or S1 as it is being called, has an aluminum tub and carbon-fiber body. It weighs 2,685 pounds. Considering the horsepower and the weight, the Saleen 1 gets a power-to-weight ratio that ranks right up there with many high-performance machines.
A six-speed manual transmission comes standard. However, Saleen Automotive says an optional paddle-shifter automatic transmission will be available at a later date.
The Saleen 1 comes equipped with independent wishbone suspension, and it “will ride on wide wheels shod in 255/30/ZR20 front and 335/25/ZR20 rear Continental Tires achieving 1.2Gs on the skid pad,” according to a release from Saleen Automotive.
Stopping power comes in the form of 15-inch calipers and rotors on front and rear tires.
The Saleen 1 benefits from Steve Saleen’s 35-plus years experience in designing, manufacturing and racing cars. The car’s design gives the car greater downforce “while reducing high speed lift and generating a greater air flow to give the car better speed and agility,” according to a release.
Inside the Saleen 1
As one of Steve Saleen’s original concepts, the Saleen 1 has an interior just as provocative as the exterior. The car backs up its supercar heritage with racing-inspired instrumentation, and high-end suede and leather throughout the cabin.
Along with the latest in car connectivity, the Saleen 1 provides some useful storage locations. There’s compartments in the console and behind the seats, and even an up front suitcase storage assist.
Saleen Automotive will produce the Saleen 1 at its California location. The company says production will start “soon.” Further, a $1,000 deposit will secure your order today.
The car will be available in Saleen’s 12 special colors, including Tire Smoke Pearl White, and Beryllium (Copper).
