Saleen S7

   The Saleen S7 was produced between 2000 and 2006. It was available only as a coupe. It is on of the fastest production cars in the world. Production of the Saleen S7 ended in 2004 with 400 cars built, while the S7 Twin Turbo was produced until 2006.

   The original Saleen S7 (2000 - 2004) was powered by a 7.0-liter V8 engine, developing 550 hp. In 2005 the Saleen S7 Twin Turbo was introduced. It comes with the same engine, that was turbocharged and now develops 750 hp. If it is not enough there are factory upgrades available for 850 and 1 035 horsepower. The Saleen S7 surges forward effortless ease and acceleration in any gear is outrageous. Engine is mated with a 6-speed manual gearbox.

   The Saleen S7 comes with a race-derived chassis and suspension. Steering is very sharp and responsive, as well as the brakes. Unfortunately the unlike some other supercars the Saleen S7 is not easy to drive as it needs a very experienced and dedicated driver. It also demands a lot of care driving in a city traffic.

   With a push of a button Saleen S7 bursts to life with a raucous rumble. Interior is noisy.

   The Saleen S7 Twin Turbo is the most expensive production car built in USA. However most of it's competitors, such as the Ferrari FXX or Bugatti Veyron are twice the price and built in significantly smaller numbers.

   Interior of the Saleen S7 has a racy touch. All the surfaces are leather and Alcantara.

   This car is difficult to enter, but driving position is good. Supportive seats are bolted to the floor and driver's legroom is unusually adjusted by bolting the pedal cluster. Unfortunately the rear view is limited and driver has to rely mainly on large exterior mirrors and an LCD screen connected to a TV camera pointed rearward.

   There is plenty of head- and legroom for both occupants, but shoulder room is tight. This supercar has two trunks - one in the front and one in the back, but both of them are tiny.

   The Saleen S7 hasn't got anti-lock brakes or other electronic driving aids, so everything depends on the drivers experience. However it is worth noticing that this supercar has braking distance from 100 km/h only a foot longer than the Ford GT.

   The Saleen S7 is fitted with an air conditioning, electric windows and stereo system, but that's about it. Options include satellite navigation and polished wheels.

   Advantages: Similar performance for half the price of the Bugatti Veyron.

   Disadvantages: The Saleen S7 is more track-orientated rather than for everyday use. Considering it's price equipment could be more generous.

   Verdict: One of the fastest production cars in the world.

   Also consider: Ford GT, Koenigsegg CCX, Pagani Zonda.