The 1990s witnessed a golden age for the Ford Mustang, a period punctuated by the rise of powerful aftermarket tuners transforming the pony car into something truly special. Among these, Saleen stood out, crafting some of the most desirable and potent Mustangs ever produced. But even within Saleen's impressive lineup, one model reigns supreme in terms of rarity and raw power: the 1999 Saleen S351. This article delves deep into this coveted machine, exploring its performance, history, key features, and what makes it so desirable, addressing searches such as "Saleen Mustang 1999," "Saleen 351 1999," "Saleen 351," "99 Saleen S351 review," "99 S351 for sale," "99 Saleen S351 engine," and the "difference between S351 and Saleen," as well as clarifying aspects of the "Salesen S351 engine."
A Legacy of Power: Understanding the Saleen S351 Lineage
Before diving into the specifics of the 1999 model, it's crucial to understand the S351's place within the broader Saleen Mustang family. Saleen, founded by Steve Saleen, has a long and storied history of transforming Ford Mustangs into high-performance machines. The S351 designation itself is a nod to the legendary Ford 351 cubic inch engine, a powerhouse known for its torque and raw power. While Saleen used various engine configurations over the years, the S351 consistently represented their top-tier performance offering.
The S351 lineage saw several iterations throughout the 1990s, each building upon the previous generation's success. These cars weren't just about bolting on a few performance parts; Saleen engineers meticulously redesigned and reinforced various aspects of the Mustang chassis, suspension, and drivetrain to handle the increased power output. This commitment to engineering excellence is a key factor in what sets Saleen Mustangs apart from other modified Mustangs.
The 1999 Saleen S351: A Collector's Dream
The 1999 Saleen S351 represents the culmination of this engineering prowess. Produced in extremely limited numbers – just shy of 500 units – this model cemented its place as one of the rarest and most sought-after Mustangs ever made. Its rarity is a significant factor in its high value and collector appeal.
The heart of the 1999 S351 is its potent engine. While precise specifications vary slightly depending on sources and individual modifications, the engine generally boasts a power output approaching 500 horsepower. This wasn't simply achieved through a basic supercharger or turbocharger kit; Saleen's engineers implemented extensive modifications, including upgrades to the intake manifold, exhaust system, and internal components, to ensure reliability and optimal performance.
99 Saleen S351 Engine: A Deep Dive into the Powerplant
The "99 Saleen S351 engine" was a masterpiece of engineering. It started with a robust Ford V8, likely a 4.6L modular engine, which formed the foundation for Saleen's modifications. These modifications included, but were not limited to:
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