I don't know why you guys are saying handling vs. performance, price vs. car model. However, I do know that "stock for stock" the s281 gets its *** handed to it by the cobra. But, the s281-E will probably kill the cobra. The s281-E is rated at 445 hp and 450 ft/lbs (correct me if i am wrong). I would also rather buy the cobra, too. $35,000 vs. $60,000 sounds good to me. I would take the extra 25K and get a nice turbo kit (if and when they design one for the newer cobras) ,the procharger setup or a Kenne Bell done to push around 750-800 rwhp. Sound good? I thought so..

 

Like it was stated before the "stock" vs "stock" question leans favorably to the SALEEN camp.

The 03/04 Cobra is a great platform to build on but each SALEEN trim is a completed package. The fairest comparision is a 03/03 Cobra against the SC S281. Remember the goal for FORD is a sell a more refined and compliant riding mustang. Although, the IRS is an advancement is doesn't compare to other automaker's IRS set-ups. It needs to improve, hence the 03/04 Cobra is hamstrung vs the live axle SALEEN variants.

Now which would I buy? A Cobra, because in total value of upgrades you can push a SALEEN off the road.

 

stock vs stock, an E wont kill a cobra...somone said it has 445 hp? well the cobra has 420-430. so it wont be to bad. and the saleen is a 2v, while the cobra is a 4v. the cobra has alot more potential. the saleen is just a tuner gt, and you are paying for the name. wht not just get the cobra, put a procharger on it, and be happy with 650 rwhp on pump gas?

 

i love this guyz avatar [sm=smiley20.gif]

 

Wow, that's cool. I was never aware the Cobra had that much power. So the under-rating of the Cobra is true, then? But truthfully, in terms of "stock vs. stock, as is" comparison.. without money involved, the s281E takes it. It may not not "smoke" the Cobra, but it beats it fair and square. And of course, out-handles it. I don't mean to sound biased, either. The new Cobra mustang is an excellent vehicle. It's more of a consumer car. Built for people who want more "umphf" in there everyday life while driving. The Saleen to me is sort've like a "show-stopper." And by all means, I DO NOT mean that is a bad way. It's got the power AND the looks to go with it. Catch my drift?

 

The 04 Cobra has got my vote. I just think the Saleens are overpriced compared to the Cobra's

Matt

 

Wow, I forgot how old this thread is...

 

Ummm...wtf? Cobra's dont come near 420...even at the crank, we're talkin 30-50 off.

 

If you didn't know what is said that the 03-04 cobras are the fastest production mustang ever built until the new cobra.

 

The 99-04 Saleen S281's have 425hp, and the 03-04 cobras have 390hp... so stock vs. stock the saleen is a little bit quicker. Saleens go for about $45-50 grand new and cobras I've seen for $30-35g's. With a few mods on a cobra you could take a saleen but saleens look better! But the new saleens only have 400hp, so the new 2007 cobra's will kick A$$!!