The 1987 Ford Mustang Saleen stands as a legendary representation of late-80s American muscle, boasting a blend of power, style, and exclusivity. This specific example, with only 86,814 actual miles on its odometer, captures the essence of the Saleen package while maintaining many original features and tasteful upgrades. Let's dive into what makes this Saleen a standout classic.
A Legacy of Performance and Style
The 1987 model year marked an era when Ford's Fox Body platform had firmly established itself as an icon of performance and affordability. The Saleen Mustangs, crafted by Steve Saleen's team, took the platform to new heights by enhancing its aerodynamics, handling, and aesthetics. With features like a distinctive rear deck spoiler, front and rear sway bars, and eye-catching graphics, the Saleen Mustang quickly became a sought-after variant of the 5.0 Mustang.
A Closer Look at This Saleen
Under the hood lies the original 5.0L V8 engine, which has been meticulously maintained and pairs perfectly with the T-5 5-speed manual transmission. This drivetrain delivers the raw, exhilarating driving experience that made the Mustang a staple of American muscle. Enhanced by headers, an off-road H-pipe, and Flowmaster mufflers, this Mustang's exhaust note is as bold as its heritage demands.
The Medium Scarlet exterior (Code: 2D) has been repainted, reflecting a timeless charm that complements its sharp Saleen lines. All VIN tags are in place, underscoring the car's authenticity. Meanwhile, the interior (Code: FG) retains its original gray upholstery, accented with sporty red piping on the seats. Features like bucket seats, a center console, power windows, locks, and mirrors, as well as a tilt column and rear window defrost, highlight the car's practical luxury.
Upgrades and Modern Touches
In addition to its factory specifications, this Saleen includes modern upgrades for performance and functionality:
Southside Machine Company rear lower control arms improve rear suspension rigidity.
An MSD Pro Billet distributor enhances ignition precision.
A 2-inch cowl hood adds an aggressive aesthetic and extra engine bay clearance.
Driving and Functionality
This Mustang delivers a balanced driving experience, as expected from a well-maintained Fox Body. The rack-and-pinion power steering ensures tight control, while power front disc brakes provide confident stopping power. The cold-blowing air conditioning, converted to R134a, ensures comfort even on hot summer drives. Additional details like a functioning Kenwood cassette AM/FM radio with equalizer add a touch of nostalgia to its modern usability.
A Glimpse at the Undercarriage and Details
The undercarriage remains clean, with factory components showing minimal wear. Floor pans and braces are in solid condition, further illustrating this Saleen's well-preserved nature. Mechanically, the car runs and drives great, with minor signs of aging adding to its authentic charm. This example also features 16-inch basket wheels wrapped in 2023 BFGoodrich 225/50 tires, enhancing its period-correct aesthetic.
Final Thoughts
The 1987 Ford Mustang Saleen is a rare gem that bridges the gap between raw muscle and refined performance. Its blend of original features, tasteful modifications, and Saleen-specific upgrades ensures this vehicle remains a showstopper and a driver’s dream.
At PC Classic Cars, we take pride in presenting iconic vehicles like this Mustang Saleen. With a commitment to authenticity, passion, and expertise, we ensure every car tells a story worth cherishing. Let the legacy of the Saleen Mustang inspire your next drive!