The latest jazz on my brothers car to be.

[enkeivette]

Just drove a 98 Mustang with the 4.6. It has a Saleen body kit, doubt that it was actually a Saleen. 97K. Nice 18" wheels, tread left on the tires, brake pads are thick, motor is drip free, trans shifts nicely (5 speed), clutch doesn't slip. Hasn't been in an accident from what I can tell. If someone wants to run the vin (1FAFP42X4WF174706) go for it. There is a cold air intake and some flowmasters welded on, the air intake hooks up to all of the factory stuff so it should pass the visual I would think.

They want 6K for it and so far are unwilling to budge. But mechanically it gets my approval, which is strange seeing as how it's a Ford. :sm_laughing: Juuust kidding. Hey, at least it's not a Dodge... not kidding... sorry Boostn. :leaving:

Yeah it's slow, but that's good for my brother. 220hp is 120 too many for him.

http://images.autotrader.com/images/2008/10/9/253/001/8885240765.253001287.IM1.MAIN.565x421_A.562x421.jp g

[SeanPlunk]

Just drove a 98 Mustang with the 4.6. It has a Saleen body kit, doubt that it was actually a Saleen. 97K. Nice 18" wheels, tread left on the tires, brake pads are thick, motor is drip free, trans shifts nicely (5 speed), clutch doesn't slip. Hasn't been in an accident from what I can tell. If someone wants to run the vin go for it. There is a cold air intake and some flowmasters welded on, the air intake hooks up to all of the factory stuff so it should pass the visual I would think.

They want 6K for it and so far are unwilling to budge. But mechanically it gets my approval, which is strange seeing as how it's a Ford. :sm_laughing: Juuust kidding. Hey, at least it's not a Dodge... not kidding... sorry Boostn. :leaving:

Yeah it's slow, but that's good for my brother. 220hp is 120 too many for him.

http://images.autotrader.com/images/2008/10/9/253/001/8885240765.253001287.IM1.MAIN.565x421_A.562x421.jp g

The only bad thing about the 96-98 GT is that it's pretty tough to get extra power out of them at all. Basically you have to do what's called a PI head swap to get them to about 275hp. Otherwise, they look great but are kind of slow :sm_laughing: This may be good for your brother now, but eventually he's going to want more power....

[BlacknBoostn]

Just drove a 98 Mustang with the 4.6. It has a Saleen body kit, doubt that it was actually a Saleen. 97K. Nice 18" wheels, tread left on the tires, brake pads are thick, motor is drip free, trans shifts nicely (5 speed), clutch doesn't slip. Hasn't been in an accident from what I can tell. If someone wants to run the vin (1FAFP42X4WF174706) go for it. There is a cold air intake and some flowmasters welded on, the air intake hooks up to all of the factory stuff so it should pass the visual I would think.

They want 6K for it and so far are unwilling to budge. But mechanically it gets my approval, which is strange seeing as how it's a Ford. :sm_laughing: Juuust kidding. Hey, at least it's not a Dodge... not kidding... sorry Boostn. :leaving:

Yeah it's slow, but that's good for my brother. 220hp is 120 too many for him.

http://images.autotrader.com/images/2008/10/9/253/001/8885240765.253001287.IM1.MAIN.565x421_A.562x421.jp g


HAHA k but 75k and 240whp still strong! Haven't had any major issues. I'm still a honda guy at heart... I thought in all honesty that Ford had a worse reputation then Dodge though...

[SeanPlunk]

HAHA k but 75k and 240whp still strong! Haven't had any major issues. I'm still a honda guy at heart... I thought in all honesty that Ford had a worse reputation then Dodge though...

They did, but Ford cars are better now. It's too bad SRT's are out of the price range he's looking in, because an SRT4 would walk a 96-98 GT pretty good...

[SeanPlunk]

HAHA k but 75k and 240whp still strong! Haven't had any major issues. I'm still a honda guy at heart... I thought in all honesty that Ford had a worse reputation then Dodge though...

His mom has an SRT4 for the record and I think it's been a pretty good car so far :bigthumbsup:

[enkeivette]

His mom has an SRT4 for the record and I think it's been a pretty good car so far :bigthumbsup:

That's only because she doesn't post on here.

And if I had to build a motor new HEADS and cam, then my little prick brother can do it too. His car already has cool wheels, is lowered and has decent paint. I would have taken this over the Vette in highschool.

[BlacknBoostn]

They did, but Ford cars are better now. It's too bad SRT's are out of the price range he's looking in, because an SRT4 would walk a 96-98 GT pretty good...

ya... not around 6k thats for sure... but gettin to be between 13k and 16k for a good deal on one!

[enkeivette]

And yes Ford is getting better, much better. 90s sucked, even early 00s sucked. But the new ones are more reliable than GM and Dodge, so I hear. Then again, the new ones haven't been around long enough to show how the big important stuff will hold up.

If you want reliable, buy Toyota. And I'm sure I'll never hear the end of that.

[BlacknBoostn]

And yes Ford is getting better, much better. 90s sucked, even early 00s sucked. But the new ones are more reliable than GM and Dodge, so I hear. Then again, the new ones haven't been around long enough to show how the big important stuff will hold up.

If you want reliable, buy Honda. And I'm sure I'll never hear the end of that.

Fixed :bigthumbsup:

[enkeivette]

Fixed :bigthumbsup:

Ahahaha! Nice.

Hondas mechanically are pretty reliable. They do make a lot of cheap soft parts though, like CV boots and window rollers. I would definitely take a Corolla over a Civic. Then again, the new Hondas are getting much better...

[BlacknBoostn]

Ahahaha! Nice.

Hondas mechanically are pretty reliable. They do make a lot of cheap soft parts though, like CV boots and window rollers. I would definitely take a Corolla over a Civic. Then again, the new Hondas are getting much better...

ewwww corolla!!! wait what year? If it's an AE86 I'd take it over the SRT for damn sure!!! Hachi Rokku !!! :nutkick:

I like the motor.. certain things must certainly be improved on for Hondas, however the pure technical brilliance... Integra Type R comes to mind. The engineering of that car was fantastic. Way ahead of it's time. (I know it says "Acura" but in Japan it says HONDA and the motor says HONDA so HONDA it shall be!)

[Vettezuki]

That's only because she doesn't post on here.

And if I had to build a motor new HEADS and cam, then my little prick brother can do it too. His car already has cool wheels, is lowered and has decent paint. I would have taken this over the Vette in highschool.

Is the primary function of this car

a- go fast?
b- look fast and attract poonany?

Probably b, which is a lot safer. :smack:

[enkeivette]

B

And more importantly he has to think it's fast, and since he's never been in my Vette WOT. He will think this is fast, because relative to other cars, it is. Don't look down on me guys, he is only 16! And 3-400 hp in a rwd lsd car is a scary thing to give an immature 16 year old, and this 16 year old is no exception, he is NOT mature for his age.

[enkeivette]

And Boostn, I hate to break your heart, but Civics are ugly! Not as ugly as Corollas, but hey, a Civic ain't attractive IMO. The 90s Civics were better looking than most other Econo rockets of the era, and yeah the Integra would take the cake. But hey... they're econo rockets. Not sleek sexy sports cars.

I'm talking about pure reliability. And for that, I'd buy the Corolla.

:barf:
http://www.handa-accessories.com/civic/civic01rear.jpg
:barf::barf:
http://digiads.com.au/carsales/used-cars/car_ad_photos/digiads_car_ads_104197_1.jpg

Sorry to any women who I might have offended. This is a totally different story if you buy the car in white and paste a pink roxy sticker on the back. ;)

[BlacknBoostn]

And Boostn, I hate to break your heart, but Civics are ugly! Not as ugly as Corollas, but hey, a Civic ain't attractive IMO. The 90s Civics were better looking than most other Econo rockets of the era, and yeah the Integra would take the cake. But hey... they're econo rockets. Not sleek sexy sports cars.

I'm talking about pure reliability. And for that, I'd buy the Corolla.

:barf:
http://www.handa-accessories.com/civic/civic01rear.jpg
:barf::barf:
http://digiads.com.au/carsales/used-cars/car_ad_photos/digiads_car_ads_104197_1.jpg

Sorry to any women who I might have offended. This is a totally different story if you buy the car in white and paste a pink roxy sticker on the back. ;)

:barf: I should have specified... pre 2001 Civics. The year they gave the SI back its hatchback was the day I stopped liking them. THAT one is ugly.. I'll find a nice one to show you tonight... They have made improvements to the newer model civic SI and 4 door as well. i'm partial to the Civic Type R actually.. 1999 Civic SI

[SeanPlunk]

Is it possible to find old Eclipse GS-X's in that price range?

[SeanPlunk]

Is it possible to find old Eclipse GS-X's in that price range?

I'm answering my own question, you can but they're a little rough. Examples:

First (http://www.autotrader.com/fyc/vdp.jsp?ct=p&car_id=254962264&dealer_id=63566991&car_year=1998&rdm=1228168463140&model=ECLIP&num_records=25&systime=&make2=&highlightFirstMakeModel=&start_year=1994&keywordsfyc=__dHVyYm8,__&keywordsfyc=&keywordsrep=116117114098111&keywordsrep=&engine=&certified=&body_code=0&fuel=&awsp=false&search_type=both&distance=300&marketZipError=false&search_lang=en&showZipError=n&make=MIT&keywords_display=turbo&color=&page_location=findacar%3A%3Aispsearchform&min_price=&drive=&default_sort=priceDESC&seller_type=b&max_mileage=&style_flag=1&sort_type=priceDESC&address=92807&advanced=y&end_year=1998&doors=&transmission=&max_price=7000&cardist=66), Second (http://www.autotrader.com/fyc/vdp.jsp?ct=p&car_id=254092683&dealer_id=63506163&car_year=1995&rdm=1228168463140&model=ECLIP&num_records=25&systime=&make2=&highlightFirstMakeModel=&start_year=1994&keywordsfyc=__dHVyYm8,__&keywordsfyc=&keywordsrep=116117114098111&keywordsrep=&engine=&certified=&body_code=0&fuel=&awsp=false&search_type=both&distance=300&marketZipError=false&search_lang=en&showZipError=n&make=MIT&keywords_display=turbo&color=&page_location=findacar%3A%3Aispsearchform&min_price=&drive=&default_sort=priceDESC&seller_type=b&max_mileage=&style_flag=1&sort_type=priceDESC&address=92807&advanced=y&end_year=1998&doors=&transmission=&max_price=7000&cardist=86), Third. (http://www.autotrader.com/fyc/vdp.jsp?ct=p&car_id=254564174&dealer_id=63537207&car_year=1997&rdm=1228168463140&model=ECLIP&num_records=25&systime=&make2=&highlightFirstMakeModel=&start_year=1994&keywordsfyc=__dHVyYm8,__&keywordsfyc=&keywordsrep=116117114098111&keywordsrep=&engine=&certified=&body_code=0&fuel=&awsp=false&search_type=both&distance=300&marketZipError=false&search_lang=en&showZipError=n&make=MIT&keywords_display=turbo&color=&page_location=findacar%3A%3Aispsearchform&min_price=&drive=&default_sort=priceDESC&seller_type=b&max_mileage=&style_flag=1&sort_type=priceDESC&address=92807&advanced=y&end_year=1998&doors=&transmission=&max_price=7000&cardist=66)

[Leedom]

HAHA k but 75k and 240whp still strong! Haven't had any major issues. I'm still a honda guy at heart... I thought in all honesty that Ford had a worse reputation then Dodge though...

The latest reliability numbers put Ford ahead of all American automakers and all the US automakers are making strides to close the gap with the imports pretty much.

Ford also has the best safety ratings (by the IIHS) of ANY automaker for 2009 models.

[enkeivette]

1st one doesn't look bad at all. But at 110K miles, I'd rather not have to worry about the extra hardware. (AWD transaxle and the Turbo) I called the guy about the 2nd one, it has issues, he had it hopped up to 29psi and... it has issues. 3rd one is gay, very very gay.

I've told this kid many times, hop on the internet, check out some cars, I'll check them out. But he always wants the last thing that I suggested, whatever the latest jazz so to speak. If he doesn't care, I'm not going to stress. The Mustang gets my mechanical approval, if my parents decided to buy it, it's a done deal.

[enkeivette]

The latest reliability numbers put Ford ahead of all American automakers and all the US automakers are making strides to close the gap with the imports pretty much.

Ford also has the best safety ratings (by the IIHS) of ANY automaker for 2009 models.

But once again, it hasn't been long enough to tell in respect to the big stuff. We now know that the 3.0L V6 that Ford makes is shit after 100K miles. Didn't know that early 00s.

[SeanPlunk]

1st one doesn't look bad at all. But at 110K miles, I'd rather not have to worry about the extra hardware. (AWD transaxle and the Turbo) I called the guy about the 2nd one, it has issues, he had it hopped up to 29psi and... it has issues. 3rd one is gay, very very gay.

I've told this kid many times, hop on the internet, check out some cars, I'll check them out. But he always wants the last thing that I suggested, whatever the latest jazz so to speak. If he doesn't care, I'm not going to stress. The Mustang gets my mechanical approval, if my parents decided to buy it, it's a done deal.

Cool deal. Tell your brother to get on the board now :) Also, he's more than welcome at the weekly mustang meet I go to (http://www.motorgen.com/forum/calendar.php?do=getinfo&e=1140&day=2008-12-7&c=1) :drink:

[enkeivette]

Also, while checking out the car, I found a power programmer stuffed in the back of the trunk. I hid it on the car so the dealer didn't try to jack it before delivery.

[SeanPlunk]

Also, while checking out the car, I found a power programmer stuffed in the back of the trunk. I hid it on the car so the dealer didn't try to jack it before delivery.

This could be the 2nd mod. (http://www.mustangforums.com/forum/4-6-modular-mustang/483407-best-pi-swap-write-up-all-you-need-to-know.html) Read up my friend :bigthumbsup:

[SeanPlunk]

Enkei, even better news. Really good aftermarket heads are coming out for the 2V GT pretty quick. (http://www.modularfords.com/forums/showthread.php?t=121612) The flow numbers (http://www.modularfords.com/forums/showthread.php?t=121612&page=3) are better than Cobra 4V heads. Tell your brother to start saving his pennies :judge:

[enkeivette]

Why not just strap on a CARB approved blower? Are those motors pretty stout?

[SeanPlunk]

Why not just strap on a CARB approved blower? Are those motors pretty stout?

Even with a blower you'd probably be putting down somewhere in the low 300 RWHP range. Not worth it. I'd do the heads first. More reliable, and you can get to about that same number. Then down the line if he proves responsible slap a blower on it :bigthumbsup:

[SeanPlunk]

I think those heads would still be smog legal for the record. The limiting factor on 2v GT's has always been the heads. There have been other 2v aftermarket heads, but nothing like this before. This could really open up that whole market. It might make the 96-98 GT's (previously not so desirable) much more so :bigthumbsup:

[BADDASSC6]

Why not just strap on a CARB approved blower? Are those motors pretty stout?

I had a 96 with the following mods:
ATI PROCharger P1-SC (variable vane impeller, no not like porsche) 16 psi
8 rib belt
PI heads
D & D Performance short Block
JBA shorty headers
magna flow prochamber and cat bat

Fuel:
Ford racing 42 Lbm/hr fuel injectors
Walbro 255gal/hr fuel pump
aeromotive adjustable base and rise fuel pressure regulator

Tunning:
First supershit that came with the procharger
Then a diablo chip
Finally a EEC Tuner

Suspension:
ebach springs 2" drop
Steeda camber caster plates
Steeda adjustable upper and lower control arms
KYB adjustable shocks
frame rail connectors

I ditched the quad shocks and ran her on 17x11.5 cobra R's wit 315 17 40 BFG drag radials in the back

The stock motors are shit. Seriously. The rods are made of powered metal that is heated to become solid. Then the ends are cracked off. This saved money in machining and was suppose to provide a better joint. Unfortunately, the cracking process create microscopic faults that grow rapidly when the strain is increased. The black itself is stronger than the old 5.0 blocks, but the pistons are another epic failure. The cranks are shit, but in the 4v blocks you can find forged cranks that are a solid base and capable of 800+ hp.

My car made 330 rwhp completely stock with nothing but he blower and an off road H-pipe. Fully built it made 430 rwhp. Worst building expierence due to the hue amount of repair cost and wrenching and the low return on performance and drive time.

Also, If he plans to run it the transmission (both auto and manual) it weak.
Suspension is not great, but I was actually pretty happy with it after some minor mods. great return on invest in the suspension on these cars.

6K I would pull the trigger and buy it. When he get the itch to make it faster a good older brother brother would guide him to a 351 swap, or transplanting a cobra setup. If he does decide to build the 2V call me and I'll show him my old credit card bills from college and he'll definately change his mind.

[SeanPlunk]

I had a 96 with the following mods:
ATI PROCharger P1-SC (variable vane impeller, no not like porsche) 16 psi
8 rib belt
PI heads
D & D Performance short Block
JBA shorty headers
magna flow prochamber and cat bat

Fuel:
Ford racing 42 Lbm/hr fuel injectors
Walbro 255gal/hr fuel pump
aeromotive adjustable base and rise fuel pressure regulator

Tunning:
First supershit that came with the procharger
Then a diablo chip
Finally a EEC Tuner

Suspension:
ebach springs 2" drop
Steeda camber caster plates
Steeda adjustable upper and lower control arms
KYB adjustable shocks
frame rail connectors

I ditched the quad shocks and ran her on 17x11.5 cobra R's wit 315 17 40 BFG drag radials in the back

The stock motors are shit. Seriously. The rods are made of powered metal that is heated to become solid. Then the ends are cracked off. This saved money in machining and was suppose to provide a better joint. Unfortunately, the cracking process create microscopic faults that grow rapidly when the strain is increased. The black itself is stronger than the old 5.0 blocks, but the pistons are another epic failure. The cranks are shit, but in the 4v blocks you can find forged cranks that are a solid base and capable of 800+ hp.

My car made 330 rwhp completely stock with nothing but he blower and an off road H-pipe. Fully built it made 430 rwhp. Worst building expierence due to the hue amount of repair cost and wrenching and the low return on performance and drive time.

Also, If he plans to run it the transmission (both auto and manual) it weak.
Suspension is not great, but I was actually pretty happy with it after some minor mods. great return on invest in the suspension on these cars.

6K I would pull the trigger and buy it. When he get the itch to make it faster a good older brother brother would guide him to a 351 swap, or transplanting a cobra setup. If he does decide to build the 2V call me and I'll show him my old credit card bills from college and he'll definately change his mind.

With the new heads it appears the ROI may not be quite so terrible. Rumor is that with just the new heads you can get over 300 RWHP without a blower or anything. I think it'll be feasible to built a 330ish RWHP reliable 2V within the next couple years. Word is the new heads cost over 2k though :o

[enkeivette]

I had a 96 with the following mods:
ATI PROCharger P1-SC (variable vane impeller, no not like porsche) 16 psi
8 rib belt
PI heads
D & D Performance short Block
JBA shorty headers
magna flow prochamber and cat bat

Fuel:
Ford racing 42 Lbm/hr fuel injectors
Walbro 255gal/hr fuel pump
aeromotive adjustable base and rise fuel pressure regulator

Tunning:
First supershit that came with the procharger
Then a diablo chip
Finally a EEC Tuner

Suspension:
ebach springs 2" drop
Steeda camber caster plates
Steeda adjustable upper and lower control arms
KYB adjustable shocks
frame rail connectors

I ditched the quad shocks and ran her on 17x11.5 cobra R's wit 315 17 40 BFG drag radials in the back

The stock motors are shit. Seriously. The rods are made of powered metal that is heated to become solid. Then the ends are cracked off. This saved money in machining and was suppose to provide a better joint. Unfortunately, the cracking process create microscopic faults that grow rapidly when the strain is increased. The black itself is stronger than the old 5.0 blocks, but the pistons are another epic failure. The cranks are shit, but in the 4v blocks you can find forged cranks that are a solid base and capable of 800+ hp.

My car made 330 rwhp completely stock with nothing but he blower and an off road H-pipe. Fully built it made 430 rwhp. Worst building expierence due to the hue amount of repair cost and wrenching and the low return on performance and drive time.

Also, If he plans to run it the transmission (both auto and manual) it weak.
Suspension is not great, but I was actually pretty happy with it after some minor mods. great return on invest in the suspension on these cars.

6K I would pull the trigger and buy it. When he get the itch to make it faster a good older brother brother would guide him to a 351 swap, or transplanting a cobra setup. If he does decide to build the 2V call me and I'll show him my old credit card bills from college and he'll definately change his mind.

You're funny, for normal people 430hp is a lot of hp. For normal people, 330hp is a lot of hp! Haha. But I get your point. They're expensive to build for what you get out of them. And yeah, 16lbs on a built V8 should damn well make more than 430whp.

[BADDASSC6]

To get to 430 I went through 3 short blocks and two tranmissions. THe best I ever ran in that car was a 12.8 at ~113 with drag radials and 3.73s.

[enkeivette]

Ouch.

[BRUTAL64]

To get to 430 I went through 3 short blocks and two tranmissions. THe best I ever ran in that car was a 12.8 at ~113 with drag radials and 3.73s.


Back in the 70s and early 80s I used to build 351 Clevelands. We had to really fight to get them into the low 12s and high 11s. BUT, the cost was nothing like today. I once put $500 dollars in a 351 and one of my port jobs and it ran a 12.90 something on the first run. This was in a 70 hardtop Mustang.
Yep, the good ole days.:smack:

[CorruptCulture]

In case you still want the carfax... better late than never.

http://www.shofstetter.com/uploads/carfax.pdf

I have 7 more that expire on 12/9 so PM me if you need a carfax.

[SeanPlunk]

In case you still want the carfax... better late than never.

http://www.shofstetter.com/uploads/carfax.pdf

I have 7 more that expire on 12/9 so PM me if you need a carfax.

Sounds good, when is he getting it Adam?

[enkeivette]

Thanks Steven! I gave it my mechanical a ok. So now it's on my brother to push my parents to get it. If he gets lazy he still might find a Yaris in the driveway this christmas. It's on him now.

[enkeivette]

BTW I would totally drive a Yaris. 38 mpg... yeah.

[BADDASSC6]

Back in the 70s and early 80s I used to build 351 Clevelands. We had to really fight to get them into the low 12s and high 11s. BUT, the cost was nothing like today. I once put $500 dollars in a 351 and one of my port jobs and it ran a 12.90 something on the first run. This was in a 70 hardtop Mustang.
Yep, the good ole days.:smack:

Wow, Huge difference. I paid $450 for the 42lb/hr ford racing fuel injectors (green tops). Not only that, but the asshole at chuck hawk auto performance in Tucson, AZ gave me the 32 lb/hr frd racing injectors (blue top) and I had no idea until a year later when I upped the boost and started having fuel issues:censored:. The 32lbm/hr injectors go for $250.

And all the other cost associated with it:
Lightning 90mm MAF ~$200
Continous Dyno tunning $125/hr
replacing the plastic stock manifold $250
Countless serpentine belts $39 bor 8 rib per belt


The operating cost just exploded. This is why I went the HCI route witht he vette. I was debating on going wth a magnacharger because of the added power and torque, but was worried about the reliability after my last SC expierience.

[enkeivette]

I actually like driving this car a lot more than the Camaro. The Camaro, albeit faster, was too damn big. Well guys we're giving Ford a try, hope it doesn't let us down!

http://i36.tinypic.com/wvco6t.jpg
http://i37.tinypic.com/neep9e.jpg
http://i34.tinypic.com/30jspqs.jpg

[SeanPlunk]

I actually like driving this car a lot more than the Camaro. The Camaro, albeit faster, was too damn big. Well guys we're giving Ford a try, hope it doesn't let us down!

http://i36.tinypic.com/wvco6t.jpg
http://i37.tinypic.com/neep9e.jpg
http://i34.tinypic.com/30jspqs.jpg

Sweet! Is it a real Saleen(did we ever figure that out)? When do I get to see it?

[enkeivette]

If you want to drive by my house you can see it tonight. :D But I have to go to bed, need to get in the habit of waking up early for the LSAT.

Not sure if it's a Saleen. Carfax wouldn't specify I'm pretty sure since all Saleens start life as GTs. It has the number on the front bumper but the paint doesn't look good enough IMO to be a Saleen. But someone might have done an aftermarket paint job on a Saleen... who knows. There is nothing embroidered in the head rests, not sure if Saleen did that for this gen. But it does have a nice cold air intake and exhaust, and that's all that Saleen did for the S281s. This also says S281 on it.

So I don't really know. Wouldn't be surprised either way.

[enkeivette]

I'll make sure to have my brother drive it to the first Motorgen get together that he can.

[SeanPlunk]

I'll make sure to have my brother drive it to the first Motorgen get together that he can.

Yeah, have him come to our event on the 13th. Also, if he wants to come hang this Sunday with the OCHP guys and go to the John Force Car Show he's welcome.

[BlacknBoostn]

If you want to drive by my house you can see it tonight. :D But I have to go to bed, need to get in the habit of waking up early for the LSAT.

Not sure if it's a Saleen. Carfax wouldn't specify I'm pretty sure since all Saleens start life as GTs. It has the number on the front bumper but the paint doesn't look good enough IMO to be a Saleen. But someone might have done an aftermarket paint job on a Saleen... who knows. There is nothing embroidered in the head rests, not sure if Saleen did that for this gen. But it does have a nice cold air intake and exhaust, and that's all that Saleen did for the S281s. This also says S281 on it.

So I don't really know. Wouldn't be surprised either way.

If you paid 6k for it I highly doubt its a Saleen... Looks good though. Ask Kera :huh: she knows more about mustangs than I do

[BRUTAL64]

I actually like driving this car a lot more than the Camaro. The Camaro, albeit faster, was too damn big. Well guys we're giving Ford a try, hope it doesn't let us down!

http://i36.tinypic.com/wvco6t.jpg
http://i37.tinypic.com/neep9e.jpg
http://i34.tinypic.com/30jspqs.jpg


Nice stang. I've been a FORD guy all my life. Good call. :bigthumbsup::thumbs_up::drink:

[94cobra69ss396]

Real Saleen's have plaques on the dash and in the engine compartment that will match the number on the front bumper. Also, there were only 57 S281 coupes built in 1998.

[SeanPlunk]

If you paid 6k for it I highly doubt its a Saleen... Looks good though. Ask Kera :huh: she knows more about mustangs than I do

It's possible it's a Saleen (given the miles and economy I could imagine the guy just dumping it), but I think agree with you that it's a little bit of a long shot. I

[SeanPlunk]

Real Saleen's have plaques on the dash and in the engine compartment that will match the number on the front bumper. Also, there were only 57 S281 coupes built in 1998.

LOL, probably not a real one then.

[enkeivette]

Real Saleen's have plaques on the dash and in the engine compartment that will match the number on the front bumper. Also, there were only 57 S281 coupes built in 1998.

There's out answer!

Too bad, so instead of this car having 240hp??? now it only has like... 240hp. :sm_laughing: S281s are a waste of money IMO. I had a friend that was deciding between a Cobra and an S281 (Sean's gen), brand new (about the same cost). He went with the S281. Sure was the best way to give up 100hp for some nice leather and pretty fiberglass.

[94cobra69ss396]

There's out answer!

Too bad, so instead of this car having 240hp??? now it only has like... 240hp. :sm_laughing: S281s are a waste of money IMO. I had a friend that was deciding between a Cobra and an S281 (Sean's gen), brand new (about the same cost). He went with the S281. Sure was the best way to give up 100hp for some nice leather and pretty fiberglass.

But because of the production number the Saleen will hold or increase in value. If he made the purchase as an investment I say he made the right choice. If he bought it to drive and make faster your friend needs some help.

[BRUTAL64]

Wow, Huge difference. I paid $450 for the 42lb/hr ford racing fuel injectors (green tops). Not only that, but the asshole at chuck hawk auto performance in Tucson, AZ gave me the 32 lb/hr frd racing injectors (blue top) and I had no idea until a year later when I upped the boost and started having fuel issues:censored:. The 32lbm/hr injectors go for $250.

And all the other cost associated with it:
Lightning 90mm MAF ~$200
Continous Dyno tunning $125/hr
replacing the plastic stock manifold $250
Countless serpentine belts $39 bor 8 rib per belt


The operating cost just exploded. This is why I went the HCI route witht he vette. I was debating on going wth a magnacharger because of the added power and torque, but was worried about the reliability after my last SC expierience.


True story.

I spun 2 rod bearings on my LT1 motor in the vette racing a 650 Ninga on the 22 FWY and had to jump on the brakes at 120+ because of traffic.

That was in 1988. Well got in a argument with some guys that said the 400 sb was no good. So instead of building the 350 LT1 motor I put together a 400 sb with 5.7 rods.
I put it together with ALL USED parts (laying around the shop) except for paint and freeze plugs. We are talking bearings, rings, gaskets...etc. I even cut the CAST pistons down (by hand) .135 for the long rod and balanced the engine with a UPS scale. Compression ended up 11 to 1. I had $12.00 in the whole motor with used parts. I figured I'd built the LT1 in a couple of months. Remember this was in 88.

Well, the motor ran so good that I kept running it until a year ago when the cast pistons finally broke.

Well, the BEST run with that motor was 11.93.


Not bad for a $12.00 dollar motor.:laugh:

BTW; The LT1 motor (shortblock) I bought for $250 in 1974. This was a over the counter replacement shortblock for a 70 LT1.

[SeanPlunk]

True story.

I spun 2 rod bearings on my LT1 motor in the vette racing a 650 Ninga on the 22 FWY and had to jump on the brakes at 120+ because of traffic.

That was in 1988. Well got in a argument with some guys that said the 400 sb was no good. So instead of building the 350 LT1 motor I put together a 400 sb
with 5.7 rods.
I put it together with ALL USED parts (laying around the shop) except for paint and freeze plugs. We are talking bearings, rings, gaskets...etc. I even cut the CAST pistons down (by hand) .135 for the long rod and balanced the engine with a UPS scale. Compression ended up 11 to 1. I had $12.00 in the whole motor with used parts. I figured I'd built the LT1 in a couple of months. Remember this was in 88.

Well, the motor ran so good that I kept running it until a year ago when the cast pistons finally broke.

Well, the BEST run with that motor was 11.93.


Not bad for a $12.00 dollar motor.:laugh:


LOL, you're like the McGyver of engines or something. I think you could make an engine out of paperclips and it would run for at least a little while :hail:

[enkeivette]

But because of the production number the Saleen will hold or increase in value. If he made the purchase as an investment I say he made the right choice. If he bought it to drive and make faster your friend needs some help.

There are few cars that are smart investments. A 2004 S281 is not one of them.

[SeanPlunk]

There are few cars that are smart investments. A 2004 S281 is not one of them.

Agreed.

[enkeivette]

LOL, you're like the McGyver of engines or something. I think you could make an engine out of paperclips and it would run for at least a little while :hail:

Haha, he didn't tell you about that time? :sm_laughing:

Cheers to you Glenn, my first thought was 5.7 rods on a 400? But f*ck! For $12... that ain't bad! :drink:

[BRUTAL64]

Haha, he didn't tell you about that time? :sm_laughing:

Cheers to you Glenn, my first thought was 5.7 rods on a 400? But f*ck! For $12... that ain't bad! :drink:

Remember 400 sb rods are shorter than all other SB rods. By using the 5.7 rod you decrease piston side loading and move the torque curve up the rpm range some.

My current 400sb uses the same STD bore block as the 88 built 400 used (same 2 bolt block). But I went to a 6 inch Scat rod. Yep, it did improve the revs and torque some. But I used to rev the 88 built 400 to 7,200 rpm.:nuts:

[94cobra69ss396]

There are few cars that are smart investments. A 2004 S281 is not one of them.

So you think with only 187 produced the car is going to loose value? Then do you think my Cobra with a production number of just over 4900 was a bad investment too?

[SeanPlunk]

So you think with only 187 produced the car is going to loose value? Then do you think my Cobra with a production number of just over 4900 was a bad investment too?

Honestly, as an INVESTMENT probably. Taking into account depreciation and everything else, I doubt you'll ever make money on it. I feel the same way on my Cobra. I LOVE my car. It's a rare color, so someday it could be worth something. I'm certainly not counting on it though. I have my car because I love it, not because I think it will be a collector's item someday or make me money. Just my opinion :bigthumbsup:

[94cobra69ss396]

Honestly, as an INVESTMENT probably. Taking into account depreciation and everything else, I doubt you'll ever make money on it. I feel the same way on my Cobra. I LOVE my car. It's a rare color, so someday it could be worth something. I'm certainly not counting on it though. I have my car because I love it, not because I think it will be a collector's item someday or make me money. Just my opinion :bigthumbsup:

Agreed, but if you bought your car and then enjoyed it for 10 years then were able to sell it for the same amount you paid for it would you not consider that a good investment?

I bought a 1980 Corolla years ago for $1000 to use as a daily driver instead of driving the Chevelle all the time. A year later I sold it for the same amount that I paid for it. I consider that a good investment.

[SeanPlunk]

Agreed, but if you bought your car and then enjoyed it for 10 years then were able to sell it for the same amount you paid for it would you not consider that a good investment?

I bought a 1980 Corolla years ago for $1000 to use as a daily driver instead of driving the Chevelle all the time. A year later I sold it for the same amount that I paid for it. I consider that a good investment.

I would agree, breaking even on any car you drive is pretty impressive.

[BADDASSC6]

:bang:Wow, $12 dollars.

[enkeivette]

So you think with only 187 produced the car is going to loose value? Then do you think my Cobra with a production number of just over 4900 was a bad investment too?

Yes, I do. Do you really believe that a NEW S281 is not going to lose any value off the sticker price? Your used Cobra is not an appropriate comparison. Because it is far more likely that you would be able to buy a used car, turn it around and sell it for more.

To entertain, without knowing anything else about your Cobra I can't say. Although, if you paid something close to the market value at the time for the used newer model Mustang Cobra, then it's a safe bet that without having invested any money or service into the car (having improved its condition) then I would say, no, the car would not now be worth more than what you paid for it. Going once again on the assumption that the market value of the Cobra from then, has not increased for the same car in similar condition today (adjusted for inflation).


Agreed, but if you bought your car and then enjoyed it for 10 years then were able to sell it for the same amount you paid for it would you not consider that a good investment?

I bought a 1980 Corolla years ago for $1000 to use as a daily driver instead of driving the Chevelle all the time. A year later I sold it for the same amount that I paid for it. I consider that a good investment.

An investment is defined as a gain, a profit. Not losing anything is not a profit, it is simply not a loss. Assuming of course that you didn't pay for any service or any parts for the car (such as oil), otherwise it would have been a loss.

You could make the argument that the transportation provided by the vehicle had financial value and that value exceeded the cost of the gas/ oil/ parts and value of your mechanical service (if any). But you have not done that.

[enkeivette]

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