1986 Saleen Mustang
I know most of you think of a supercharged monster when you think of a Saleen Mustang. Well this is only true in recent years. 1986 was the third year the Saleen Mustang had been in production. Even though the Saleen made no modifications to the engine, it still had a considerable advantage over the stock Mustang. Steve Saleen concentrated more on improving aerodynamics and handling than power. The 1986 Saleen Mustang still had the stock horsepower rating of 200 bhp @ 4000 RPM and the stock torque rating of 285 lb.-ft @ 3000 RPM. Now how much of a difference did the Saleen's improved aerodynamics and handling make ?
Test |
1986 Saleen Mustang |
1986 Mustang GT |
0-60 MPH |
6.0 |
7.6 |
1/4 Mile |
14.70 @ 92.0 MPH |
15.60 @ 89.8 MPH |
The Saleen could also pull 0.88G on the skid pad which would be considered untouchable to any stock Mustang.
In 1986, Saleen did not really have a standardized pattern to what was done to the car. Steve Saleen continued to update and change things throughout the year. 1986 was, however, the first year the owners received a Saleen jacket. The previously offered security system was dropped. Also the Escort radar detector became an option rather than a standard feature which meant this was the last year of the very trick radar plug integrated into the map light. As on the 85, Saleen clear lexan headlight covers were standard to ensure proper airflow. Due to the government's requirements, a third brake light was added. It was bolted to the deck lid and the spoiler just bolted on top of it. The Saleens made earlier in 86 came with 16 x 7 Riken alloy wheels, later Enkei 16 x 7 wheels were offered as an option. The 86 was also the final Saleen to have the Saleen serial number on the drivers side head light tray. Overall it was a steal at a sticker price ranging from $16,000 to $17,000.
Changes made on the 1986 Saleen
Racecraft Suspension
- Specific Rate Front and Rear Coil Springs
- Koni Adjustable Gas Front Struts
- Special Strut Mounting Bearings
- Koni Adjustable Gas Rear Shocks
- Koni Quad Shocks
- Strut Tower Brace
- Urethane Sway Bar Pivot Bushings
- Riken Racing Design Alloy Wheels- 16 x 7
- Fulda Y-2000 Tires- P225/50 VR 16
- High Performance Alignment Settings
Aerodynamics
- Competition Rear Spoiler
- Saleen Front Air Dam
- Saleen Side Skirts
- Saleen Rear Valance
- Saleen Headlight Covers
Styling and Interior
- 170 MPH Speedometer
- Electronic Saleen Tachometer
- Saleen Shift Knob
- 3-Spoke Momo Steering Wheel
- Hurst Quick Ratio Shifter
- Kenwood KRC 6000 Radio (optional)
- Escort Radar Warning Receiver
- Sport Seats
- Left Side Drivers Foot Rest
- Saleen Windshield Emblem
- Ford Motorsport Quarter Window Graphics
- Saleen Tri-Color Racing Stripes
- Side Louvers Painted (Red and White Cars)
- Saleen Dash Emblem
- Saleen Serial Number -Front
- Saleen Serial Number -Console
- Saleen Mustang Jacket
1986 Production Figures
74 Black Saleens
- Grey Interior
- 65 Hatchbacks
- (1 w/T-top, 6 w/Premium sound)
- Beige Interior
- Other Interior
- 7 Convertibles
- (1 w/auto trans, Leather, 1 w/Permium sound)
45 White Saleens
- Grey Interior
- 40 Hatchbacks
- (2 w/Premium sound and 1 w/Premium sound and Sunroof)
- Beige Interior
- Other Interior
- 1 Convertible w/Red
- 1 Convertible w/Leather
49 Red Saleens
- Grey Interior
- Beige Interior
- Other Interior
- 1 Convertible w/White and Red
- 2 Convertible w/Leather
26 Grey Saleens
- Grey Interior
5 Other Saleens
- 3 Blue Hatchbacks w/Grey Interior
- 1 Maroon Hatchbacks w/Grey Interior
- 1 Maroon Hatchbacks w/BeigeInterior
1986 Saleen Production Numbers
Number Form: If you own the first saleen made in 1986 you have 86-0007.
Numbers Used: 7-156,158-204,19R,29R
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