Facts Every Supercar Lover Should Know About The Saleen S7 – SlashGear

The S7 set its mark as one of the fastest cars ever produced in the U.S. at its introduction in 2001. However, within three years, improvements in automotive engineering made 550 horsepower much easier to attain, giving Saleen significant competition from other supercars. Not satisfied to rest on his laurels, in 2005, Steve and his engineering staff upgraded the 7.0-liter engine in the street version S7 with twin Garrett turbochargers producing 5.5 psi of boost. 

The upgraded engine, including replacing the original hydraulic lifters with solid lifters, generated 750 horsepower at 6,300 rpm and 700 lb-ft of torque at 4,800 rpm. It met emissions requirements and remained compliant with OBD-II (Onboard diagnostics) standards using a state-of-the-art emission control system.

However, there were more changes to the S7 than just the addition of turbochargers. The already exceptional aerodynamic properties were improved with modified front fenders, front and rear diffusers, and a rear spoiler. The result was a 60 percent increase in downforce and a 40 percent decrease in drag. Saleen revised the S7 Twin-Turbo’s suspension, making it firmer for acceleration, turning, and braking. Dual-stage shock absorbers enabled variable spring rates at different speeds. Saleen and Brembo co-developed brakes consisting of 15-inch discs in the front and 14-inch discs in the rear, improving braking ability.