Full Breakdown
Saleen Opens Reservations for the Long-Delayed S1 Sports Car
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event
Saleen Automotive announced that reservations are now open for the S1 Street, the company’s first new mid-engine sports car since the S7. A fully refundable deposit of $1,000 secures a spot on the waiting list, with the street-legal version priced from $160,000. A race-only variant is also offered, starting at $250,000 with a $2,000 refundable reservation.
Background & Context
The S1 was first unveiled at the 2018 Los Angeles Auto Show, where Saleen projected a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine delivering 350 lb-ft of torque. Over the ensuing eight-plus years the project stalled, partly due to a failed venture into China that forced the company to “put the brakes” on development. The renewed launch arrives amid a broader industry trend of reviving long-delayed models, a pattern highlighted by Tesla’s scheduled Roadster reveal on October 15.
Data & Statistics
- Engine & Power – Saleen-designed 2.5-liter inline-four producing 450 hp and 425 lb-ft of torque.
- Performance – 0-60 mph in 3.2 seconds (street); race trim claims 2.9 seconds. Top speed is listed at 171 mph for the road version and 180 mph in race configuration.
- Weight & Construction – Carbon-fiber body over an aluminum chassis, curb weight 2,685 lb.
- Dimensions & Wheels – 20-inch wheels fitted with 255/30 ZR20 front and 335/25 ZR20 rear Continental tires; independent wishbone suspension.
- Transmission – Choice of a six-speed manual or a paddle-shift automatic.
- Pricing & Reservations – Street model $160,000 (plus options); race model $250,000. Reservations: $1,000 (street) and $2,000 (race), both fully refundable.
- Production Plan – Initial build at Saleen’s Corona, California facility, with a target of 1,500 units in the first production year. Delivery dates have not been confirmed.
Official Statements & Responses
The company also references its motorsport heritage, noting that Saleen-prepared vehicles have entered 383 races, securing 119 wins and 13 championships. While the S1 is not intended to replace the earlier S7, Saleen positions it as a modern competitor to cars such as the McLaren Artura, focusing on lightweight agility rather than sheer displacement.
What’s Next
Saleen has indicated that the reservation period is open, but it has not disclosed when manufacturing will commence or when customers can expect delivery. Prospective buyers will need to monitor future communications from the automaker for updates on production start-up and any potential changes to pricing or specifications.