2001 Ford Mustang Saleen S281-SC
VIN 1FAFP45X41F148241
What’s special about this listing
This 2001 Ford Mustang Saleen S281-SC represents a high point of the New Edge Mustang era. Produced from 1999 to 2004, the S281-SC was a factory-supercharged performance variant engineered by Saleen to transform the Mustang GT into a far more capable machine. Unlike typical aftermarket builds, Saleen vehicles left the factory with thoroughly re-engineered suspensions, sport-tuned exhaust systems, and distinctive aerodynamic bodywork designed to improve both handling and high-speed stability. The S281-SC specifically denoted the supercharged iteration of Saleen's S281 line, making it considerably rarer and more powerful than the naturally aspirated base models.
According to the seller, this particular example is finished in Silver Metallic over a Black leather interior and features a power-operated convertible top, letting drivers enjoy open-air motoring with a supercharged 4.6-liter V8 and a 5-speed manual transmission. The seller notes that the car retains a host of comfort and convenience features—including air conditioning, power windows, power locks, power seats with lumbar support, anti-lock brakes, traction control, and dual airbags—making it a usable performance machine. With just 45,074 miles showing, this is a relatively low-mileage example for its age.
The 1999–2004 Saleen Mustangs occupy a special place in Mustang history as some of the most thoroughly developed factory-authorized performance cars of their generation. Recent activity in the Ford Mustang Saleen S281-SC market shows transaction prices ranging from roughly $19,000 to over $59,000, indicating that well-preserved examples command significant collector interest. As enthusiasts continue to rediscover the New Edge generation, the supercharged Saleen variants are widely viewed as the pinnacle of this era—blending limited-production exclusivity with genuine performance pedigree.
Key characteristics:
- Factory-supercharged S281-SC variant: Saleen's supercharged New Edge Mustang, featuring a 4.6L V8 with forced induction for substantially more power than a standard GT
- Comprehensive Saleen engineering: According to the seller, upgrades include a retuned suspension, sport exhaust, and unique aerodynamics for sharper handling and road presence
- 5-speed manual convertible: An enthusiast-spec combination of drop-top freedom and a direct-shift gearbox
- 45,074 miles: Relatively low mileage for a 2001 performance vehicle, suggesting careful use
- New Edge collectibility: The 1999–2004 Mustangs are rapidly gaining collector attention, with the supercharged Saleen models widely considered the performance peak of the generation
Specs
Details about this vehicle - decoded from the VIN & CLASSIC.COM curators. Contact the seller for specifics about this listing.
- Year
- 2001
- Make
- Ford
- Model Family
- Mustang
- Model Generation
- 4th Gen / SN-99
- Model Variant
- Saleen
- Model Trim
- S281-SC
- VIN
- 1FAFP45X41F148241
- Mileage
- 45,074 mi
- Originality
- Original & Highly Original
- Engine
- 4.6L Supercharged V8
- Transmission
- Manual
- Drive Type
- Rear Wheel Drive (RWD)
- Vehicle Type
- Automobile
- Body Style
- Convertible
- Driver Side
- LHD
- Doors
- 2 Doors
- Color Group (Ext)
- Silver
- Color Group (Int)
- Black
Media
Vehicle History
A timeline of events that we've detected for this vehicle.
About this Seller
Gateway Classic Cars - St. Louis
Gateway Classic Cars of St. Louis specializes in a large, curated inventory of classic and collector vehicles spanning a wide range of eras and styles. As the flagship location and corporate headquarters, their hand-selected selection emphasizes variety, quality, and vehicles that appeal to both serious collectors and enthusiasts alike.