How much horsepower does a 1986 Ford Mustang Saleen have?
The 1986 Ford Mustang Saleen did not have a single fixed horsepower figure; horsepower varied by package, typically ranging from about 230 horsepower in base configurations to around 300 horsepower for the most aggressive upgrades.
To understand why, it's helpful to note that Saleen offered limited-production performance packages in 1986 that altered the engine tune, intake and exhaust, suspension, and aerodynamics. The horsepower you observed depended on the exact configuration installed by the dealer or owner.
Horsepower ranges by Saleen package
The following illustrates typical horsepower ranges for 1986 Saleen Mustangs, based on the upgrade level and tuning common to the period:
- Base Saleen upgrade (engine tune, exhaust, suspension, aero): approximately 230–240 horsepower.
- Mid-range performance package (enhanced intake/exhaust and calibration): about 250–270 horsepower.
- Top-tier/high-performance configurations (more aggressive cam, higher RPM tuning, upgraded exhaust): roughly 280–300+ horsepower on select cars.
Figures above are approximate and reflect the era's typical ranges; actual output could vary by specific build, condition, and measurement method.
Measurement context and variability
Horsepower numbers from the mid-1980s can differ depending on how the measurement was taken (SAE net vs. gross), as well as modifications and dyno testing conditions. Because Saleen cars were individually tuned, two examples from the same year could show different results even with similar packages.
Summary
In short, a 1986 Saleen Mustang didn’t have one universal horsepower rating. Dealers offered several upgrade levels that typically yielded between roughly 230 and 300 horsepower, with the precise figure depending on the exact package, components, and condition of the car.
How much horsepower does a 1986 Mustang 5.0 have?
The 1986 Mustang 5.0L V8 engine produced 200 horsepower and 285 lb-ft of torque, a slight decrease from the previous year's 210 horsepower due to the introduction of electronic fuel injection (EFI) and more restrictive cylinder heads. Although the horsepower dropped slightly, the torque increased, resulting in a significant improvement in acceleration time.
This video shows a dyno run of a 1986 Mustang GT: 1mLate Model Restoration (LMR)YouTube · Oct 28, 2024
- Horsepower: 200 hp @ 4,000 RPM
- Torque: 285 lb-ft @ 3,000 RPM
- Transmission: Available with a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic
- Key Change: The 1986 model year saw the switch from a carburetor to a sequential electronic fuel injection (SEFI) system.
How much is a 1986 Saleen Mustang worth?
Typically, you can expect to pay around $41,350 for a 1986 Ford Mustang Saleen in good condition with average spec. The highest selling price of a 1986 Ford Mustang Saleen at auction over the last three years was $43,350.
How many 1986 Saleen Mustangs were made?
200
After transforming just three factory stockers into Saleen Mustangs in 1984, production increased to just over 200 by 1986, well over 700 by 1988 and nearly 900 for 1989.
How much HP does a Saleen Mustang have?
Horsepower in a Saleen Mustang varies significantly by model and year, but the current 2024 302 models range from 490 horsepower for the White Label to 850 horsepower for the Black Label. Older models like the 2007 S281 SC produced 465 horsepower, and some custom or limited editions from different eras could have even higher outputs.
2024 Saleen 302 Models
- White Label: 490 hp (naturally aspirated V8)
- Yellow Label: 775 hp (supercharged V8)
- Black Label: 850 hp (supercharged V8)
Examples from Other Years
- 2007 S281 SC: 465 hp (supercharged)
- 2008 Sterling Edition: ~650 hp (supercharged)
- 2015 S302 Black Label: 750 hp (supercharged)
- 2024 302 Black Label: Over 800 hp (supercharged)
