Saleen Performance Vehicles releases Saleen 435S Mustang

Mere days ago, we have introduced the highly anticipated 2010 SMS 460 Ford Mustang from Steve Saleen and its new company SMS Supercars. Now, another Mustang bearing the Saleen name - the Saleen Performance Vehicles 435S Mustang is here. However, just as we said previously, the 2010 SMS 460 Ford Mustang is the only Mustang officially authorized to bear Steve Saleen's name. Steve Saleen had nothing to do with the Saleen 435S.

In fact, the Saleen Performance Vehicles, owned by Michigan-based MJ Acquisitions, is in a lawsuit filed by Steve Saleen over the use of the Saleen name.

Power comes from the 4.6-liter, 3-valve SOHC V8 engine fitted with a Saleen Series VI supercharger, paired up with a 5-speed manual transmission. The car will be capable to produce a vigorous 435hp (324kW) and 425lb-ft (575Nm) of torque.

Thanks to the Saleen Racecraft suspension kit, the car rides 1.5 inches lower than a Mustang GT. The suspension package includes springs, a stiffer front stabilizer bar, and nitrogen-pressurized shock absorbers tuned exclusively for the 435S.

The exterior of the car has also been fitted with Saleen badging and chevrons, as well as a set of custom 18in, 5-spoke alloy wheels(19- and 20-inch wheels are available).

“All in all, we believe the 435S is the right car at the right time,” said Mike Shields, CEO of Saleen Performance Vehicles. “It’s a terrific performance value that we’re proud to offer. And this is just the first of many great Saleen vehicles we’ll be launching in the future.”

Saleen preparing two new high-performance Mustangs over the next year

Saleen, Inc. will be releasing two new high-performance Mustangs over the next year, with the first to be unveiled at Mustang Week in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina later this month. And a second version also is possible for next spring.

Though Saleen, Inc. has had a tricky past with business changing hands rapidly, the upcoming two cars will be consistent with past products. “They are going to be a next generation.” Saleen Performance Vehicles CEO Michael Shields told AutoWeek. More details are expected to be revealed at the event next week.

Both cars will be using Saleen’s custom parts lines plus superchargers that were developed by the MJ Acquisitions automotive and engineering group, which purchased part of the parts business from Saleen last February.

We expect more details to be reveiled.