I've collected several pictures over the years of many of the
Saleen XP8 and Saleen XP6 Explorers. In case you might not now about
the Saleen Ford Explorer:
The Saleen XP8 is a performance sport utility vehicle based on
the Ford Explorer created by Saleen during the years 1998–2001. There
were three prototype models, based on the 1997 Explorer XLT, which
when viewed closely, has distinct characteristics apart from the
production models (rear hatch design, taillights, and integrated
license plate into the rear bumper). The Saleen XP8 comes in two wheel
drive, or all wheel drive four-door configurations, packing either a
5.0-liter V-8, or a Saleen-developed supercharged
5.0-liter/286-horsepower V-8.
A six-cylinder version, the Saleen XP6, was also made in very
limited quantities in 1998.
There were approximately 265 Saleen XP8's created, although this
number is widely disputed and to an extent, impossible to verify as
Saleen has extremely limited records of this low production model. It
has been said that approximately the first 20 XP8's were reserved for
Saleen employees and executives, thus decreasing the available
selection to the public even more.
Saleen lowered the Explorer about 2 inches, for both improved
handling and appearance. Springs and shocks were replaced with the
company's Racecraft components, and wheels upgraded to Saleen's own
18-inch (460 mm) genuine magnesium wheels wrapped by Pirelli
255/55SR18 Scorpion S/T radials.
The exterior appearance package was designed by Phil Frank and
includes special front and rear fascia, side skirts, door cladding, roof-mounted rear wing, and carbon fiber trim. The cabin is treated to
either a real wood or carbon fiber appearance package, depending upon
color choice, as well as Saleen gauge faces and floor mats. A
particularly nice, though pricey, option is Saleen/RECARO leather
seating ($3950), offering 10-way power adjustment up front and
hip-hugging support.[2]
Engine
Bore & Stroke: 4in x 3in
Displacement: 5.0L / 302cid
Compression Ratio: 8.5:1
Horsepower: 222 hp / 4,200 rpm
Torque: 298 lb/ft / 3,000 rpm
Drive train
Transmission: 4-speed automatic
Brakes
ABS: Three channel, four-sensor system
Disc Brakes: Front & Rear
Front: 13in vented disc four piston caliper (optional)
These front disc brakes were eventually recalled and replaced
with stock Explorer calipers, again due to lack of structural
integrity.=
Additional options
Carbon Fiber hood
Premium Sound System
Integrated LCD Display
Saleen Recaro Leather interior
All prices are in USD
Saleen Explorer 5.0L 2WD base price: $37,990.00
Saleen Explorer 5.0L AWD base price: $45,990
Saleen/Recaro Leather Upgrade: $2989.00
Saleen 13" Brake System (N/A on 2WD): $2682.00 (Later
recalled & replaced with stock Explorer brakes)
Saleen Lightweight Hood: $1750.00
Chrome Alloy Wheels: $935.00
Enclosed Transport to Dealer: $1500.00[3]
Saleen XP8's can vary dramatically in appearance and options as a
result of Saleen farming the production of the XP8's (with the
exception of only a few) to California bodyshops and Ford dealers.
Many of the options available in Saleen XP8's, such as the carbon
fiber composite hood, Saleen supercharger, and carbon fiber accents
were installed outside of the Saleen Inc. compound.
Saleen XP8's are now well past their final production date
(2001), and as such, can only be purchased through online
advertisements and car auction websites such as eBay Motors. Prices
vary significantly due to condition, mileage, and most importantly,
options installed. Sale prices can vary between $8,000 to $20,000
depending on the above.
Additionally, all performance and appearance parts for the XP8's
have ceased production back in 2001.[4] Parts are virtually impossible
to find and purchase, and reproduction costs are skyhigh due to low
demand and basically, the owner of the vehicle themselves footing the
bill. Saleen XP8 parts are no longer available through Saleen
whatsoever, even to owners.
This has led to what some owners describe as the
"glass-slipper effect", as that if any substantial damage
were to occur, replacement parts are not an option. Therefore, because
of this and the very low production numbers to begin with of the XP8,
the XP8 maintains a distinct allure to Ford enthusiasts unfound in
many other vehicles.
The Saleen Book, an official book produced by Saleen detailing
the history and production numbers of Saleen vehicles past and
present, noticeably neglected to cover and feature the XP8. Only in
the owner registry listed in the book (compiled information of the
original owner of each Saleen vehicle) did it mention a few select
XP8's.
MuscleJunkie wrote:
To start here are photos of Saleen XP8 Explorer 98-0001
Here
are photos of Saleen XP8 98-0004
One of 3 factory supercharged XP, carbon hood Recaro and Alcon Brakes.
It was used by Saleen as a press car and owned by Tony Johnson one of
the partners of Saleen at that time.
View the attachments for this post at:
http://www.jlaforums.com/viewtopic.php?p=436412535#436412535
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