Time Capsule Spotlight: 2002 Ford Mustang Saleen – True Blue Collector's Dream with Just 16K Miles
In the realm of modern muscle, few names conjure as much excitement as Saleen. A name synonymous with high-performance Ford tuning, Saleen-enhanced Mustangs have long held a revered status among enthusiasts. And when it comes to low-mileage, single-owner examples that have been lovingly preserved? That’s where this 2002 Ford Mustang Saleen S281 Coupe in True Blue Clearcoat Metallic earns its place in the collector car hall of fame.
A Rare and Well-Preserved Thoroughbred
Originally built at Ford’s Dearborn plant and delivered through Lithia Ford of Boise, this Mustang left the factory on February 20, 2002, destined to live a life of care and enthusiasm. Its Marti Report confirms it as a rare find: one of just 1,147 built in this specific True Blue (code L2) and Medium Graphite leather (X2) interior combination. As a true one-owner car, it spent over two decades in Idaho, driven sparingly — with a verified 16,966 miles recorded as of March 2025.
Under the Hood: Saleen-Enhanced Power & Precision
At its heart lies the original, numbers-matching 4.6L SOHC EFI V8, perfectly paired with the TR3650 5-speed manual transmission. This Saleen S281 is more than just a rebadged Mustang — it comes with a host of Saleen-specific performance enhancements including:
Saleen "Powerflash" calibration
Saleen Power Pulley & S-belt
Saleen X-pipe and mufflers
High-performance suspension with variable rate springs, N2 shocks/struts, and upgraded sway bars
Saleen 18-inch 5-spoke alloy wheels wrapped in brand-new 255/35ZR18 front and 265/35ZR18 rear Nitto NT555 rubber (original tires included)
The result is a coupe that delivers refined road manners, precise handling, and exhilarating acceleration — all while maintaining its factory air conditioning, cold as ever.
Style & Identity: Saleen Inside and Out
Visually, this car is unmistakably Saleen. From its urethane front and rear fascias, louvered hood scoop, and S281 wing, to the C-pillar roof treatment and Saleen graphics, it's an exercise in aggressive design and exclusivity. The serialized badging — engine bay plaque, console plaque, bumper number, and fender badge — confirms its authenticity and originality.
Inside, the cabin is equally impressive. Medium Graphite leather sport bucket seats, a leather-wrapped shift knob and steering wheel, Mach 460 sound system with 6-CD in-dash changer, and all the expected power accessories come together to offer both comfort and performance. This example even retains its two original keys and key fobs, rounding out its completeness.
Documented, Detailed, and Ready for the Spotlight
This Mustang isn't just clean — it’s immaculate. The undercarriage, engine bay, and interior all reflect meticulous preservation, and a clean CARFAX backs up its unblemished history. With 22 documented service records, regular emissions tests, and recent fluid checks, it's clear this car lived a pampered life.
Even the details check out: the factory original paint shows beautifully, and the vehicle still has its Saleen floor matsand original paperwork, including a Marti Report and miscellaneous Saleen documents.
Preserved Muscle, Presented with Pride
Few modern classics capture the heart like a true Saleen Mustang, and this 2002 example represents the best of the breed. A low-mile, one-owner coupe that looks and drives like new, it’s the kind of car that reminds us why we fell in love with American performance in the first place.
About PC Classic Cars
PC Classic Cars in Sherman, Texas is proud to celebrate and preserve automotive legends like this 2002 Ford Mustang Saleen. With a deep appreciation for vintage and specialty vehicles, the team ensures every classic we represent is a tribute to timeless design, craftsmanship, and performance. Whether it’s a concours-level showpiece or a weekend cruiser, we honor each car’s unique story with expert care and passion.