21:19 Being able to separately open the rear glass is a feature I miss in modern SUV's. The utility isn't for throwing small stuff in, it's so you can fill the ENTIRE TRUNK with crap and then open the glass and continue to fill it up to the roof without all your stuff falling out of the back of the car. It also works in reverse, when all your stuff in the trunk has shifted around during the trip you can open just the glass and take out the stuff that was going to fall out if you opened the whole hatch. Without this feature you have to open the hatch and try to catch the avalanche of groceries, luggage etc. that then falls out or try to reach over from the back seats to get these items first.
My first car was a 97 Tahoe with the tailgate style rear hatch and not the standard barn doors most had, i loved the back, it worked like a truck to sit on too on top of the better cargo access
I worked at a Ford dealership changing oil and tires in the late 90's and a guy had a Saleen Mustang and it had nitrous on it. The bottle was located in the center console but the switch was located under the gas pedal so that when the bottle was opened, all he had to do was mash the gas pedal to get a shot of nitrous. I was maybe 18 and thought that was the coolest thing I had ever seen!
@@baronvonslambert no, it won't necessarily. It's up to you whether you want to install a WOT switch with nitrous. You guys don't have any idea what you're talking about. Tell me you've never turned a wrench in your life without telling me you've never turned a wrench in your life
One note about the headrests - they do lift up. They have a HUGE gap between the headrest and the main seatback, with the two spindly little poles holding it up, but they do raise to "headrest" height. They also rotate/tilt forward, so the largest face faces forward to the back of the seat occupant's head. In this video, they are shown in the "almost fully lowered" state to improve rear visibility. The mechanisms are stiff, though. It takes quite a bit of force to lift/lower or to tilt up/down. That was unique to the leather seats. The cloth seats of that era Explorer had no headrests at all in back. (I've had both types at various times.)
I love that you mentioned the Typhoon.. Along with the Syclone, Lightning, and this Explorer, they make up a really unique subset of vehicles for the time. I still want a Syclone, in particular. Probably as much nostalgia as anything, but I love 'em. A turbo V6 AWD compact truck is awesome to me!
Doug, I just watched this and am a HUGE Saleen fan and once owner of many Saleens. The picture you showed of the 89 SSC was once mine. I sold it through that car dealership out of Scottsdale, AZ. What a small world! and I am crying HUGE tears...😥
Doug, I’ve owned an AWD Pontiac 6000 and an Achieva SCX W41. I’ve driven a Dodge Spirit R/T and a Pontiac Tempest Sprint. I’ve seen both the 1990 Fiero prototype and 1 of the 8 Marlboro GMC Syclones in person. I’ve been in the IMS museum basement and in the back office and shop of Lingenfelter Performance Engineering. I’m a walking encyclopedia of weird and unusual cars, especially from the 80s and 90s. But my friend, you’ve finally done it. You’ve reviewed something that I’ve never frackin’ heard of. And that is an accomplishment. 👏
@@purwantiallan5089 Rivaling it in terms of what? Obscurity maybe. A straight line performance SUV vs a limited production coupe that was made for SCCA eligibility. Not really much to compare.
Great review! A few notes: it's pronounced "Suh-leen" not "Saline", at least when I met Steve and his daughter Molly, they pronounced it that way (btw, I think Molly's signature is on the passenger airbag cover in the video, Steve signed mine!) the supercharger was a dealer installed option and not a Roots style like the X-Charger of this truck but a centrifugal Powerdyne unit, so no whine but a subtle whistle at idle. I believe the Speedlines were recalled due to cracking under the Explorer's much heavier weight versus the Mustangs and really only on the 98's. The lugnuts have an aluminum sleeve that cracked on mine. I was able to find new versions from a Ferrari aftermarket company as the F355 had similar factory Speedline wheels during this era. The hood is made of carbon fiber and very rare since it was an expensive option. I found mine on a clone years ago, along with the brake/gas pedals that many XP8's don't have. The steering wheel is also very rare, on only the 98's I believe. The interior pieces on this XP8 isn't on all examples, some might be aftermarket in this truck. In the tan interiors, Saleen had a faux wood grain instead of the carbon fiber. Yes, the Recaros are super rare as well, the last piece I've been searching for! As to be expected, XP8 specific parts are insanely rare. Along with the challenges of maintaining a 25 year old grocery-getter, there are headaches but it's so worth it. I was 12 when I saw my first one at my neighbor's Ford/Saleen dealer here in Minnesota. They sold the XP6 pictured in this video, 98-0060. I knew I had to have one so I purchased my 1998 XP8 10 years later from the original owner with 162k miles. Now at 194k, I have no plans to ever sell. Increasingly I've noticed it gets more attention than my '02 Saleen S281E ever has. My first car was a 1995 Explorer Sport (I still own at 312k miles) and like Doug said, the XP8's handling is a huge contrast!
I came here just for this. It was very painful to watch between his excessive use of the word "say-leen" and all of his incorrect commentary. His buddy must not be very knowledgeable either. Oh, and my XP8 has over 200k on it. Still kicking. AWD SC.
I've owned both a first gen Sport Trac and a first gen Eddie Bauer. Explorers don't really scream "Enthusiast car" to most, but to those understand, it certainly is.
Doug, your content is second to none. I never used to find it very enjoyable when I was younger, always wondering why you didn't create the same type of content as Top Gear of the day (the OG presenters). Oh how naive I was... The new found appreciation I have for your channel is a blessing, now I have almost a decade of your content to binge on 😍 Thanks for existing and keep up the awesome work 😁
I had a 1999 Mercury Mountainer V-8 AWD that I really enjoyed. I put dual exhausts with Thrush glasspack mufflers on it, and it sounded only a little meaner than this Saleen model. One thing I noticed was that the 8-Inch gap for the cargo cover was because the back seats (at least in my Mountaineer) reclined. In the reclined position, there was only about an inch and a half gap.
@tenpoundburrito, wow, first of all, how do you ever eat a burrito that is that large? Second, did you give all of the performance upgrades that you could to the engine and transmission of that SUV of yours? Third, if the engine and transmission both could not be upgraded, then did you ever consider a Coyote swap on it, out of curiosity?
I was obsessed with Saleen as a kid. a Saleen s7 was my dream car ever since i saw it on the movie Bruce Almighty. I loved every car they made including the xp8 and the focus N20. Had always planned on owning a Saleen mustang, but then i got heavy into the import scene. A Saleen is still on the bucketlist of cars though!
This makes me want to get another second gen explorer as a daily to keep miles off my '16 F-150. Lots of good memories in my 2nd gens driving to our local ski resort with my friends. Seeing the interior again was a blast from the past. Thank you, Doug!
As the former owner of XP8 #27 in 1999 I’ll tell you it was amazing handling wise. Massive sway bars and Bilstein “tuned by Saleen”shocks… it’s an absolute riot to drive. Mine didn’t have the cheesy stick on carbon stuff. It was, from Saleen hydro dipped carbon. None of those stick on carbon pieces were Saleen parts. Mine was AWD, V8 no recaros, no carbon hood, no SC and no sunroof. The current owner has completely restored it and I can’t say enough good things about it.
The ball joints on those (non Saleen) were the death trap. I mechanic-ed for a Lincoln Mercury dealer 97-04. Practically every ball joint on those was broken. The only reason they didn't completely fall apart was the pinch bolt.
Imagine if the hidden gem was that the XP6 was available with a supercharged 6 with a proper manual. That’d be the desirable package. Thanks for the video.
As a nephew of a former 2nd gen explorer owner, I had no clue that the clunking was a common problem, although hers would also make a funny metallic squeaking sound when you slammed the doors (which I get the feeling came from the suspension)
Just when I thought I’ve heard of every vehicle from the 90’s?! This thing came out 3 years after I graduated high school! I actually owned a 93 Ford Probe GT in 98 that I thought was so bad ass 😂 Thank you Doug🤜🏼
The exploder worth having... I miss my 06' Exploder with a manual transmission. It was what I learn to drive manual with and it was very fun in the winter.
Back in 2000 I used to play Test Drive: Off Road 3 on PC a lot. I would always choose the white Saleen XP8 as my vehicle of choice. It just looked so cool and I suppose it didn't hurt that my parents drove a base XLT Explorer at the time.
I honestly didn't remember Saleen ever doing anything with the explorer. Back then the S281 and S351 Mustangs were the only Saleen models that got any pub. This was a really cool car for its time and a great review as always. Hoping there will be a S351 review in the near future.
This video really brought out the inner child in me and really threw me for a throwback moment. My Grandfather had a 94 XLT, 98 XLT and a 99 EB which I loved to drive. So much so that I bought a 98 Sport as my first car back in 2010. I currently drive a 16 XLT that I love. Cars were so much simpler back in the day that is for sure.
1998 I was working for a Law Firm doing customer service I answered calls and did filing, one of the Attorneys was looking at one of these and was figuring out the costs and wait time, Saleen was only about 20 or so miles away so he went down there every weekend, he ended up buying a new 1998 Porsche Boxster Cabriolet.
My wife had a 98 mountaineer with the 5.0,awd,4r70w. Used it as a mail truck. I installed a transgo shift kit and cooler. That thing was great. Being a 5.0 guy I really wanted to take some of My leftover mustang stuff and install in on it. Unfortunately it was a work truck sold it with 150,000k. Had 100k in hard rural mail route driving. Never left her down. It also never got stuck. Always loved these. Great review.
There was a black one with white emblems in my town for years. But it was and NA model. The fact that I played Test Drive Off Road 2 and could see this almost weekly in my town was such a joy as a kid. I didn't realize they were so rare. The SyTy will always be the originals to me. But this is right up there with them and even more rare.
90% of the reason is so he can take a percentage of money on every car sold, and since the site specializes in mostly expensive and cool cars, the cuts he gets are bigger
It's always sad to see these without their big brake kits that Ford recalled because the caliper brackets were aluminum and they were getting broken. I ended up with a Baer kit that was put out to replace them. It's incredible the difference they make. I don't think there are many of those around either though since I've never heard of anyone else having them, even on the explorer forums.
The Alcon brake upgrade did have bracket failures, but Ford didn't recall them because that was put on by Saleen and was an option at that. Not many came with them to begin with and they are definitly rare to find today. Plus you can't get rotors for them anymore.
Fun fact. Because of the wing, the original gas struts for the rear glass had to be replaced by shorter ones so the glass wouldn't hit it. Thus, the glass became a nice head knocker when left open.
I actually wondered about that …. Back in the days when glass window openings were popular…i was thinking the addition of the spoiler would cause issues to the function of the rear glass.
This is true, I have an xp8 wing. Just looking for the rest of the parts. Mostly wanting to get the rear bumper cause I already have a custom front bumper side skirts fenders and hood. Just need a nice rear bumper and I love the way the xp8 one looks. Not trying to make a clone btw. But I may make a mold to have a wing for my other explorer
Doug has helped to revive interest about so many great vehicles that do deserve much more attention and love from enthusiasts! thank you for hard work and amazing wholesome content! P.S: There are so many more vehicles made by Saleen that ought to be talked about :)
As a lifetime Ford fan (yes, I do like other cars including GMs, lol), I just wanna say that I think Doug, for the most part, has done right by Ford products over the years with his reviews, and I'm all here for it! (Of course I'm referencing this video, the 2nd gen Taurus SHO, 1st gen Navigator, Blackwood, SVT Lightning, Raptor, Terminator, Marauder, etc....) I do have a couple challenges for you, Doug! A Contour SVT, SVT Focus ZX3, 3rd gen Taurus SHO (1st gen, too, but the 3rd gen is quirkier) and the big one.......a running, driving Ranger EV (bonus points if you happen to find one with the original batteries). I know you've already explained over the years your process with how you come to temporarily possess the cars you review, but I'm just saying it would be pretty damn cool to see your take on any or all of these! Great review, as always! Thanks for the content!
Thank you for making a video with this absolute GEM! These have been on my list of dream cars for 15 years. I’ll keep an eye on this auction… maybe one day!
@@malibuconv1968yeah I owned a 97. I lived in the Ozarks. Very curvy hilly roads. Regularly drove 70-80 down those roads. Never rolled it. Just gotta know how to drive and how to control them.
@@MTNorville It was both. The reason the tires failed is because they were underinflated, which was done to prevent rollovers. Firestone had said this was fine for the tires, but it turned out to lead to overheating and sudden catastrophic delamination. Since the Explorer was already so marginal for rollovers, the loss of control from a blowout could easily end in a violent high speed rollover crash. 90s vehicles didn't have good rollover protection, so this would be very bad for the occupants of the vehicle. Both Ford and Firestone were complicit in making that generation of Explorer particularly dangerous, even for its era. It very badly damaged the Explorer brand, and it's surprising that it was able to survive and remain successful. That said, the Saleen XP8 probably solved the rollover issues (albeit probably not intentionally) with its Racecraft Suspension setup, lowered ride height, and larger wheels with lower profile performance tires.
It was not due to the tyres. People only think that because Ford's fix was just to raise the tyre pressures so high it didn't have enough grip to rollover anymore.
I purchased a 2000 mercury mountaineer for my wife with the Premier edition just a few years ago what a nice rare gem. It is the all-wheel-drive version with the 5.0 L engine. 136k and cherry shape. And it has many of the same features as far as the XP 8. Has the rear door lock button the rear gate opens the same has the glass that opens. Has the backseat controls and the rear vents for the backseat. Also came with a sunroof which is nice. And it also comes factory amp and subwoofer. Steering wheel controls as well. I'm sad to be losing the steering wheel and the rear radio controls because I'm changing out the head unit to something more modern. My wife wants bluetooth. Going to find out if the amp runs any front stage speakers. Thanks for the video about the XP 8.
I saw one of these now and then in Michigan (I lived in Dearborn) and it stuck with me. Saleen was the pinnacle of names in the Ford aftermarket world as a teen and this thing was and still is a unicorn.
Ok after that supercharged Lincoln Towncar, I thought Doug out did himself looking for a car that had been on the market for years, BUT THIS?! I met a guy at a Dairy Queen in 2000-2001 that did all of the XP8 mods to a Mercury Mountaineer. True sleeper, very stylish, the idle and acceleration was not expected. That "car" is the only reason why I consider any Performance SUV today. Thank you Doug.
Normally, whenever Doug or any car you tuber says a car "that you've never heard of or seen before", I laugh. I've seen most things, but this actually surprised me, never saw one before
His score system, despite appearance, is completely non empirical. Because based it based on whatever opinion he comes up with at the moment, I'm sure scores are also adjusted relative to other comparable vehicles to make sure they fall in line with whats expected. For example a score is adjusted up if a vehicle being reviewed falls beneath another that he knows is inferior (or adjusted down if it lands above a vehicle he knows is superior). With so many vehicles it's a necessity.
I've only seen these Saleen Explorers in magazines back in the 90s. Saleen, imo, makes the best looking body kits for mustangs and other Ford products, but it takes some skill to make those body kits fit correctly. Not what you expect for the money you pay for those kits and Saleen won't give you any support to get your kit fitting correctly (ask me how i know). Doug, can you find and review a Ford GT90?
My neighbour had one in 06, an ontario truck. I never could understand it then why an explorer was so crazy sounding and looking until now. Makes all the sense and brought back a memory I forgot I had lol
@@Briggleton Doug claims to do research on the cars before he makes a video, but he makes an awful lot of mistakes like this. Admittedly, this is not the sort of thing that would be mentioned in a news article or review, but it's not an uncommon type of error for him.
Not original. Not humorous. Save your limited brainpower for your career as a roadkill chef. Make millions happy by refraining from sharing your inane comments.
Wow 161,000 miles. Kinda surprised they hadn’t switched over to the 4.6 modular by ‘98. The coolest explorer I remember were the 2 door sport models, I remember seeing a few with 5 speed manuals on the lot
I wondered how long it would take for one of these to show up on your channel. I almost bought one of these in Cincinnati back in 2010. Ive always really liked the Explorer, mine are all first gens. I remember reading about these when they were new. I really wanted one when they came out, as i turned 16 in 1998. I settled for a free Lincoln Mark 7 through high school and bought a 92 explorer 2 door XL with a 5 speed and 4 wheel drive. It was fun off pavement! Id actually be curious to see what you would think of a Mark 7 LSC. Just a streamlined Thunderbird with GT mustang underpinnings.
@@honestyisthegucci They were pretty cars. They were the first American car to have the plastic headlights. They were referred to as Euro head lights at the time. I smoked many an unsuspecting honda in that car! I think 83-84 models you could option a BMW diesel in them too. Ive only ever seen one that way.
@@geoffpranger4002 You don't want the diesel. It is still of the smoky and slow variety. 114hp sounds like a lot, but it's not. Later Mark VIIs had better interiors, too, like later Thunderbirds.
I had a 96 Explorer for my first car and stumbled upon these on accident while looking for parts. I have wanted one so bad ever since and will die happy when I can get one in my garage
I had a Ford Taurus LX 1st generation, it was loaded, had great little features everywhere and lasted 290K miles. Ford made great cars in the 80s and 90s.
It's pretty incredible how far interior car quality has come in the past 25 years. Cars like this one are where the jokes about American cars being terrible come from. Those jokes were also well founded.
Thinking about it..that awd had to be a beast in 98…and probably came with the seats…those explorers were always light and quick-and they lowered it..very cool suv to own..
Had a 2000 Explorer V8. Went to the Orange County Saleen Open House in 2002 and was able to pick up the Explorer Saleen parts on super discount. Picked up the Saleen fiberglass hood, 18" speedline wheels (silver), Carbon fiber mirrors (they were real CF), sway bars and rear spoiler for 90% off (it was dead by then). Changed the XLT rear emblem to say XLR. I was set. Was still a pig though. .
A Saleen Windstar would have needed a professionally-built transmission. Given that the 3.8 had already been made by Ford with a supercharger, a functional hood scoop would have been necessary for clearance, but I think I'd like to see somebody try. Maybe Taurus SHO CV joints and an all-forged AXOD could get you a really quick van. Then again, a metal head gasket on that lazy Essex and a few more forged internals might be necessary. I remember the seats were comfortable, but the omnipresent smell of coolant reminded you that your engine would be troubling you again soon.
That does seem very expensive for the day, although the cool/prestige factor is huge on this unit. My grandparents bought a fully loaded Mercury Mountaineer 5.0 AWD back in 1997 for $27k. And I thought that was a ton of money back then lol
I had a 1998 Limited with the 5.0 AWD and two things Doug failed to mention is the headrests are extendable (they’re in the lay flat mode for folding down the seats) also the reason there’s such a large gap is because the back seats recline extremely far (making up the 8” gap). I had no idea they had a supercharged V8 Saleen though!
Oh, man! I had forgotten all about the Saleen vehicles. I think there was a kid in high school who had one of these, unless my memory is a bit off, haha!…couldn’t they have at least added black headlight and taillight covers, just to enhance the exterior look?…no moonroof, either? Come on, man!
I'd take this over a new Explorer ST. I was in high school when first heard of Saleen. First it was archival footage I saw on his fox body Mustangs, then it was 50 Cent driving an S7 in the video for candy shop.
One of these with a 3rg gen Coyote swap and a 10 speed auto..it would be cooking. I've always like Saleens, I think the coolest looking cars ever made were the Calypso green 92-93 Saleen Mustangs. These are pretty good looking vehicles.
This is EXACT why I love this channel. Doug presents some real hidden gems of the automotive world. Keep 'em coming...PLEASE 🙏
Amen
I’d rather have this ‘98 XP8 than any suv made after 2020
Yes, I need a break from all these EV crossovers and Porsches.
@@ziggamonWhy Porsche's though? 🙁
@@PaulAllen786even a Quad Turbo Fastergini???
Doug the kind of guy who makes racing car sounds when pushing a shopping cart.
*vroom vroom*
@@TheLiamsternice pfp man
Lol I'm not gonna lie I be letting the back swing out and doin clutch kicks
Aren't we all though
And tries to do a burnout in the parking lot
Normally when Doug says “…. Is a cool car you never heard of” it’s almost always something I heard of. This time it wasn’t. Well played sir.
for me it is ALWAYS , this time was no exception but to be honest I always know that it exist and that's pretty much it so I always enjoy Doug video
@@TheQuirkyGarage1999yeah cause you’re from 99 ya zoomer trash 😂
Especially when you're not from the US when it comes to this one
Yup. I did NOT know this was a thing.
Carbon on the center info looks real. Yea it’s just stuck over the plastic but it’s real carbon.
21:19 Being able to separately open the rear glass is a feature I miss in modern SUV's. The utility isn't for throwing small stuff in, it's so you can fill the ENTIRE TRUNK with crap and then open the glass and continue to fill it up to the roof without all your stuff falling out of the back of the car. It also works in reverse, when all your stuff in the trunk has shifted around during the trip you can open just the glass and take out the stuff that was going to fall out if you opened the whole hatch. Without this feature you have to open the hatch and try to catch the avalanche of groceries, luggage etc. that then falls out or try to reach over from the back seats to get these items first.
BMW has it
I like it too. My highlander has that
The new Denali has it
4 runner has the roll down window, I like that better. But it’s definitely a nice feature to be able to reach in through the window
My first car was a 97 Tahoe with the tailgate style rear hatch and not the standard barn doors most had, i loved the back, it worked like a truck to sit on too on top of the better cargo access
It's so so cool to see this. I did NOT know this existed and I'm very glad to know it does. It just seems like a polished, 90's SUV experience.
Wow, the Saleen Explorer! Aka the only way I was able to beat Test Drive Off-Road 2 back in the day, ha. Haven't thought about this thing in ages.
I didn't know you were into cars that was odd or absolete 😂
that's funny and the fact this was the meta
I have to watch a review on that game now
LGR in the wild!!!
Please do a collab with Doug!
I worked at a Ford dealership changing oil and tires in the late 90's and a guy had a Saleen Mustang and it had nitrous on it. The bottle was located in the center console but the switch was located under the gas pedal so that when the bottle was opened, all he had to do was mash the gas pedal to get a shot of nitrous. I was maybe 18 and thought that was the coolest thing I had ever seen!
Wow!
All nitrous systems use a WOT switch.
@@fcguy2778no they don't. You can run it off a button which is how people used to always do it.
@@baronvonslambertnot everyone was that smart. I personally knew people that didn’t wire a redundant pedal switch.
@@baronvonslambert no, it won't necessarily. It's up to you whether you want to install a WOT switch with nitrous. You guys don't have any idea what you're talking about.
Tell me you've never turned a wrench in your life without telling me you've never turned a wrench in your life
One note about the headrests - they do lift up. They have a HUGE gap between the headrest and the main seatback, with the two spindly little poles holding it up, but they do raise to "headrest" height. They also rotate/tilt forward, so the largest face faces forward to the back of the seat occupant's head. In this video, they are shown in the "almost fully lowered" state to improve rear visibility. The mechanisms are stiff, though. It takes quite a bit of force to lift/lower or to tilt up/down.
That was unique to the leather seats. The cloth seats of that era Explorer had no headrests at all in back. (I've had both types at various times.)
Thank you, came here to comment this
Massive gap between headrest and the seatback actually.
Not true about the cloth headrests. I have a 1997 Explorer XLT with cloth interior and it has rear headrests of the same type.
@@Ruskaga Ah, our ‘96 didn’t. Must have been new for ‘97. (I’m pretty sure we had an XLT, may have been only an XL.)
I love that you mentioned the Typhoon.. Along with the Syclone, Lightning, and this Explorer, they make up a really unique subset of vehicles for the time.
I still want a Syclone, in particular. Probably as much nostalgia as anything, but I love 'em. A turbo V6 AWD compact truck is awesome to me!
Syclone and F-150 Harley Davidson are considered to be highly sought after cars for sure.
Doug, I just watched this and am a HUGE Saleen fan and once owner of many Saleens. The picture you showed of the 89 SSC was once mine. I sold it through that car dealership out of Scottsdale, AZ. What a small world! and I am crying HUGE tears...😥
Reviews with cars that are not usually talked about is why I subbed to doug❤
Likewise
@@nobodysfavourite6953I did too, it also gave me something to do in December of '13 when we had a huge ice storm.
Same
Yeah fuck the brand new SUV reviews no one will ever want, these oddities are where it’s at
Remember being obsessed with this thing when it came out, but completely forgot about for the last 20+ years. Very satisfying video!
Doug, I’ve owned an AWD Pontiac 6000 and an Achieva SCX W41. I’ve driven a Dodge Spirit R/T and a Pontiac Tempest Sprint. I’ve seen both the 1990 Fiero prototype and 1 of the 8 Marlboro GMC Syclones in person. I’ve been in the IMS museum basement and in the back office and shop of Lingenfelter Performance Engineering. I’m a walking encyclopedia of weird and unusual cars, especially from the 80s and 90s. But my friend, you’ve finally done it. You’ve reviewed something that I’ve never frackin’ heard of. And that is an accomplishment. 👏
Achieva SCX W41? Seems like that car was also ever rivalling Saleen XP8.
@@purwantiallan5089 Rivaling it in terms of what? Obscurity maybe. A straight line performance SUV vs a limited production coupe that was made for SCCA eligibility. Not really much to compare.
Great review! A few notes: it's pronounced "Suh-leen" not "Saline", at least when I met Steve and his daughter Molly, they pronounced it that way (btw, I think Molly's signature is on the passenger airbag cover in the video, Steve signed mine!) the supercharger was a dealer installed option and not a Roots style like the X-Charger of this truck but a centrifugal Powerdyne unit, so no whine but a subtle whistle at idle. I believe the Speedlines were recalled due to cracking under the Explorer's much heavier weight versus the Mustangs and really only on the 98's. The lugnuts have an aluminum sleeve that cracked on mine. I was able to find new versions from a Ferrari aftermarket company as the F355 had similar factory Speedline wheels during this era. The hood is made of carbon fiber and very rare since it was an expensive option. I found mine on a clone years ago, along with the brake/gas pedals that many XP8's don't have. The steering wheel is also very rare, on only the 98's I believe. The interior pieces on this XP8 isn't on all examples, some might be aftermarket in this truck. In the tan interiors, Saleen had a faux wood grain instead of the carbon fiber. Yes, the Recaros are super rare as well, the last piece I've been searching for! As to be expected, XP8 specific parts are insanely rare. Along with the challenges of maintaining a 25 year old grocery-getter, there are headaches but it's so worth it.
I was 12 when I saw my first one at my neighbor's Ford/Saleen dealer here in Minnesota. They sold the XP6 pictured in this video, 98-0060. I knew I had to have one so I purchased my 1998 XP8 10 years later from the original owner with 162k miles. Now at 194k, I have no plans to ever sell. Increasingly I've noticed it gets more attention than my '02 Saleen S281E ever has.
My first car was a 1995 Explorer Sport (I still own at 312k miles) and like Doug said, the XP8's handling is a huge contrast!
I was glad to find to this post! I've always said it this way too. Like Celine Dion, which is also extremely 90's. 😅
Bingo!!!! After Doug said Saline 5x, I just can’t watch. Call me what you will. But the person who comments probably says Porsche incorrectly.
I had to mention the same thing. Nails on a chalkboard every time. I just couldn't take it anymore. 🥴
I came here just for this. It was very painful to watch between his excessive use of the word "say-leen" and all of his incorrect commentary. His buddy must not be very knowledgeable either. Oh, and my XP8 has over 200k on it. Still kicking. AWD SC.
I've owned both a first gen Sport Trac and a first gen Eddie Bauer. Explorers don't really scream "Enthusiast car" to most, but to those understand, it certainly is.
Doug, your content is second to none. I never used to find it very enjoyable when I was younger, always wondering why you didn't create the same type of content as Top Gear of the day (the OG presenters). Oh how naive I was... The new found appreciation I have for your channel is a blessing, now I have almost a decade of your content to binge on 😍
Thanks for existing and keep up the awesome work 😁
YOU GOT A SALEEN EXPLORER!!!! I have never clicked so fast
I had a 1999 Mercury Mountainer V-8 AWD that I really enjoyed. I put dual exhausts with Thrush glasspack mufflers on it, and it sounded only a little meaner than this Saleen model. One thing I noticed was that the 8-Inch gap for the cargo cover was because the back seats (at least in my Mountaineer) reclined. In the reclined position, there was only about an inch and a half gap.
Re Gap; Was what I was thinking. Have a cargo cover, which is positioned in the same manner to the back seat.
You are correct the mercury mountaineer was fully equipped. Leather seats sunroof cd player and powerful engine 💪💪💪
This guy missed a lot of obvious thinhs and also attributed standard stuff, like the rear lock button/seperate back glass, to it being a Saleen
Same engine just with a blower
@tenpoundburrito, wow, first of all, how do you ever eat a burrito that is that large? Second, did you give all of the performance upgrades that you could to the engine and transmission of that SUV of yours? Third, if the engine and transmission both could not be upgraded, then did you ever consider a Coyote swap on it, out of curiosity?
I'm glad that Doug is reviewing cars I've never heard of
I was obsessed with Saleen as a kid. a Saleen s7 was my dream car ever since i saw it on the movie Bruce Almighty. I loved every car they made including the xp8 and the focus N20. Had always planned on owning a Saleen mustang, but then i got heavy into the import scene. A Saleen is still on the bucketlist of cars though!
I miss these kinds of reviews. I forgot all about this era of Ford and of course I want this one 😍
I'm still high off this era
me too especially since i own two 1998 Explorers!
Saleen is one of the coolest companies of all time. And the XP8, along with the SR, the S7 and a lot of other cars are a huge proof of that
Yes! The SR is so bad ass. Would love to see a review on one
They also did a XP6 version explorer which was a supercharged V6
*Saleen is a person, he made a company named after himself, and it is pronounced SUH-LEAN.*
Are they still around ?
@@gfgranjayes
I know about basically every vehicle make especially in the 80s/90s but have never seen this one before. That’s why I love this channel.
This makes me want to get another second gen explorer as a daily to keep miles off my '16 F-150. Lots of good memories in my 2nd gens driving to our local ski resort with my friends. Seeing the interior again was a blast from the past. Thank you, Doug!
As the former owner of XP8 #27 in 1999 I’ll tell you it was amazing handling wise. Massive sway bars and Bilstein “tuned by Saleen”shocks… it’s an absolute riot to drive. Mine didn’t have the cheesy stick on carbon stuff. It was, from Saleen hydro dipped carbon. None of those stick on carbon pieces were Saleen parts. Mine was AWD, V8 no recaros, no carbon hood, no SC and no sunroof. The current owner has completely restored it and I can’t say enough good things about it.
The ball joints on those (non Saleen) were the death trap. I mechanic-ed for a Lincoln Mercury dealer 97-04. Practically every ball joint on those was broken. The only reason they didn't completely fall apart was the pinch bolt.
People usually bought superior custom/aftermarket ball joints to replace the factory ones that Ford made.
Nobody in the 90s could make a small truck ball joint. GM’s S10 platform was the same way. They were basically a 30K mile maintenance item.
THIS is why I love this channel-never heard of this SUV before, and loved every minute of learning about it.
Imagine if the hidden gem was that the XP6 was available with a supercharged 6 with a proper manual. That’d be the desirable package. Thanks for the video.
If you're buying something like this, just manual swap it at that point
Great idea! Cheers.
Why would you desire V6 over V8 when the supercharged V8 doesn’t even break 300hp
One word…. Manual. Cheers.
@@kellingtonlink956 oh. Sure I guess? Would be pretty slow though.
As a nephew of a former 2nd gen explorer owner, I had no clue that the clunking was a common problem, although hers would also make a funny metallic squeaking sound when you slammed the doors (which I get the feeling came from the suspension)
THIS… is the kind of video I love with Doug. As a French suscriber, this is a complete discovery for me, never heard about this SUV. Thank you Doug
a very enjoyable video. this is what it's all about: Doug reviewing hidden gems!
Tuning in the 90s was just awesome! But it's weird that they got only about 60hp and 50nm after adding the supercharger.
Yes a tune and filter will make that.
You probably didn't want more power in that boat. They were top heavy and would probably flip.
@@sdlausen1 firestones...
@@mistersecret88 HAHA! I totally remember that Firestone debacle as a kid!
You mean the Ford Exploder tire issue….
I saw one of these at a car show about a decade ago, and I had no idea what this was. And now I do.
Thanks, Doug.
Just when I thought I’ve heard of every vehicle from the 90’s?! This thing came out 3 years after I graduated high school! I actually owned a 93 Ford Probe GT in 98 that I thought was so bad ass 😂 Thank you Doug🤜🏼
Can the 1993 Ford Probe GT done an engine swap?
Always great to learn about a car I didn't know existed. Thanks Doug!
You won a package 🎁🔝
This is the ultimate quirky sporty suv I would want!
The exploder worth having...
I miss my 06' Exploder with a manual transmission. It was what I learn to drive manual with and it was very fun in the winter.
Back in 2000 I used to play Test Drive: Off Road 3 on PC a lot. I would always choose the white Saleen XP8 as my vehicle of choice. It just looked so cool and I suppose it didn't hurt that my parents drove a base XLT Explorer at the time.
I played with it on TDOR2. Along with the T-Rex
I’ve got the 98 5.0 explorer. That Saleen one is CLEAN
Wow, you stumped me on this one, Doug. Can’t believe I never heard of this one. What a find.
If I took a drink every time Doug said SAY-leen, I'd put a bullet in my head. So much for being detail oriented. Way to go De(m)uro.
This just shows how nuts Saleen were
I honestly didn't remember Saleen ever doing anything with the explorer. Back then the S281 and S351 Mustangs were the only Saleen models that got any pub. This was a really cool car for its time and a great review as always. Hoping there will be a S351 review in the near future.
This is why Doug is the king of car reviews. Everyone else reviews new or popular cars. Doug reviews, new, popular and cars nobody even knew existed.
Bill from Curious Cars is better and funnier than Doug.
@@paulie-Gualtieri. Who?
@@zone1hearing
Look it up
@@paulie-Gualtieri.lol I love his long cynical rants about the car company for 20 mins before he gets to reviewing the car.
@@ziggamon
Bill is a cool cat
I’ll never see a 98 explorer this clean again lol
This video really brought out the inner child in me and really threw me for a throwback moment. My Grandfather had a 94 XLT, 98 XLT and a 99 EB which I loved to drive. So much so that I bought a 98 Sport as my first car back in 2010. I currently drive a 16 XLT that I love. Cars were so much simpler back in the day that is for sure.
I ALWAYS wanted one of these. Had a Mercury mountaineer 5.0 in highschool and was obsessed with these weird XP8s
1998 I was working for a Law Firm doing customer service I answered calls and did filing, one of the Attorneys was looking at one of these and was figuring out the costs and wait time, Saleen was only about 20 or so miles away so he went down there every weekend, he ended up buying a new 1998 Porsche Boxster Cabriolet.
I am proud to say that I absolutely remember this bad boy. Awesome vehicle.
My wife had a 98 mountaineer with the 5.0,awd,4r70w. Used it as a mail truck. I installed a transgo shift kit and cooler. That thing was great. Being a 5.0 guy I really wanted to take some of
My leftover mustang stuff and install in on it. Unfortunately it was a work truck sold it with 150,000k. Had 100k in hard rural mail route driving. Never left her down. It also never got stuck. Always loved these. Great review.
There was a black one with white emblems in my town for years. But it was and NA model. The fact that I played Test Drive Off Road 2 and could see this almost weekly in my town was such a joy as a kid. I didn't realize they were so rare. The SyTy will always be the originals to me. But this is right up there with them and even more rare.
I'm convinced that Doug created a website just so he can review the most obscure cars ever
90% of the reason is so he can take a percentage of money on every car sold, and since the site specializes in mostly expensive and cool cars, the cuts he gets are bigger
doug's smart move
It's always sad to see these without their big brake kits that Ford recalled because the caliper brackets were aluminum and they were getting broken. I ended up with a Baer kit that was put out to replace them. It's incredible the difference they make. I don't think there are many of those around either though since I've never heard of anyone else having them, even on the explorer forums.
The Alcon brake upgrade did have bracket failures, but Ford didn't recall them because that was put on by Saleen and was an option at that. Not many came with them to begin with and they are definitly rare to find today. Plus you can't get rotors for them anymore.
@@05Saleen0705 , how about you build better ones with a more modern manufacturer?
@@paxhumana2015 actually working on that.
Fun fact. Because of the wing, the original gas struts for the rear glass had to be replaced by shorter ones so the glass wouldn't hit it. Thus, the glass became a nice head knocker when left open.
I actually wondered about that …. Back in the days when glass window openings were popular…i was thinking the addition of the spoiler would cause issues to the function of the rear glass.
yes, and good luck finding the correct replacements because no one made notes as to what they used originally. Ugh!
This is true, I have an xp8 wing. Just looking for the rest of the parts. Mostly wanting to get the rear bumper cause I already have a custom front bumper side skirts fenders and hood. Just need a nice rear bumper and I love the way the xp8 one looks. Not trying to make a clone btw. But I may make a mold to have a wing for my other explorer
Doug has helped to revive interest about so many great vehicles that do deserve much more attention and love from enthusiasts! thank you for hard work and amazing wholesome content! P.S: There are so many more vehicles made by Saleen that ought to be talked about :)
Lucky winner 🎁🔝
for real
As a lifetime Ford fan (yes, I do like other cars including GMs, lol), I just wanna say that I think Doug, for the most part, has done right by Ford products over the years with his reviews, and I'm all here for it! (Of course I'm referencing this video, the 2nd gen Taurus SHO, 1st gen Navigator, Blackwood, SVT Lightning, Raptor, Terminator, Marauder, etc....)
I do have a couple challenges for you, Doug! A Contour SVT, SVT Focus ZX3, 3rd gen Taurus SHO (1st gen, too, but the 3rd gen is quirkier) and the big one.......a running, driving Ranger EV (bonus points if you happen to find one with the original batteries). I know you've already explained over the years your process with how you come to temporarily possess the cars you review, but I'm just saying it would be pretty damn cool to see your take on any or all of these!
Great review, as always! Thanks for the content!
Thank you for making a video with this absolute GEM! These have been on my list of dream cars for 15 years. I’ll keep an eye on this auction… maybe one day!
Not to mention, that generation explorer had a crazy high rollover rate. I was actually a passenger in one that my friend rolled.
They only rolled over when you drove them like an idiot.
That was due to the tires, not the chassis. Which was resolved.
@@malibuconv1968yeah I owned a 97. I lived in the Ozarks. Very curvy hilly roads. Regularly drove 70-80 down those roads. Never rolled it. Just gotta know how to drive and how to control them.
@@MTNorville It was both. The reason the tires failed is because they were underinflated, which was done to prevent rollovers. Firestone had said this was fine for the tires, but it turned out to lead to overheating and sudden catastrophic delamination. Since the Explorer was already so marginal for rollovers, the loss of control from a blowout could easily end in a violent high speed rollover crash. 90s vehicles didn't have good rollover protection, so this would be very bad for the occupants of the vehicle. Both Ford and Firestone were complicit in making that generation of Explorer particularly dangerous, even for its era. It very badly damaged the Explorer brand, and it's surprising that it was able to survive and remain successful.
That said, the Saleen XP8 probably solved the rollover issues (albeit probably not intentionally) with its Racecraft Suspension setup, lowered ride height, and larger wheels with lower profile performance tires.
It was not due to the tyres. People only think that because Ford's fix was just to raise the tyre pressures so high it didn't have enough grip to rollover anymore.
loved these when they came out. nice to see a well preserved one
While this wasn't theost modern SUV that was built today I love It Even though it's not stock and standard.
I've never seen one in person
@@kevincollins8620 I know they don't make these abymore.
@@LuisUrbieta Bruh I still see Buick GNX and Old GTO and they don't make them. The Saleen SUV is rare.
@@kevincollins8620 True, It was not "mass produced" or sold in the millions But love it.
Love it. My dad had a 99 ford Explorer for basically my whole childhood and it’s cool to see this. Never knew they did this.
I purchased a 2000 mercury mountaineer for my wife with the Premier edition just a few years ago what a nice rare gem. It is the all-wheel-drive version with the 5.0 L engine. 136k and cherry shape. And it has many of the same features as far as the XP 8. Has the rear door lock button the rear gate opens the same has the glass that opens. Has the backseat controls and the rear vents for the backseat. Also came with a sunroof which is nice. And it also comes factory amp and subwoofer. Steering wheel controls as well. I'm sad to be losing the steering wheel and the rear radio controls because I'm changing out the head unit to something more modern. My wife wants bluetooth. Going to find out if the amp runs any front stage speakers. Thanks for the video about the XP 8.
Makes me think about my 92 thunderbird SC. My second car and one of my favorites. If you could review one of those I’d find that super neat
Yes a very cool car, I had an 87 turbo coupe they are both great
I had a 95, pearl white, 5-speed. It was totaled in an accident. RIP.
Those were super cool, real sleeper. Not talked about enough at all
I know Doug must be excited about this one lol let's go!
Never of guessed, I mean, he's jumping around like an excited kid who's had too much candy.
Can you review the fx35? It was the coolest and futuristic suv of the 2000’s. Even came with a V8 too
I saw one of these now and then in Michigan (I lived in Dearborn) and it stuck with me. Saleen was the pinnacle of names in the Ford aftermarket world as a teen and this thing was and still is a unicorn.
Ok after that supercharged Lincoln Towncar, I thought Doug out did himself looking for a car that had been on the market for years, BUT THIS?! I met a guy at a Dairy Queen in 2000-2001 that did all of the XP8 mods to a Mercury Mountaineer. True sleeper, very stylish, the idle and acceleration was not expected. That "car" is the only reason why I consider any Performance SUV today. Thank you Doug.
I have a package for you 🎁🔝
They were 20 years to early, this thing would sell like crazy now with people so fixated on SUVs and performance numbers.
Saleen is lowkey underrated
The s7 specifically
Normally, whenever Doug or any car you tuber says a car "that you've never heard of or seen before", I laugh. I've seen most things, but this actually surprised me, never saw one before
Very good looking suv!
Those white magnesium wheels are
🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Doug: “This is actually a really fun car to drive!”
Fun Factor score: 4 out of 10.
His score system, despite appearance, is completely non empirical. Because based it based on whatever opinion he comes up with at the moment, I'm sure scores are also adjusted relative to other comparable vehicles to make sure they fall in line with whats expected. For example a score is adjusted up if a vehicle being reviewed falls beneath another that he knows is inferior (or adjusted down if it lands above a vehicle he knows is superior). With so many vehicles it's a necessity.
I never knew this existed. This is awesome! Thanks, Doug!
I had a 1998 Mercury Mountaineer and it is insane how much nicer this looks. Makes me a little nostalgic...
I've only seen these Saleen Explorers in magazines back in the 90s. Saleen, imo, makes the best looking body kits for mustangs and other Ford products, but it takes some skill to make those body kits fit correctly. Not what you expect for the money you pay for those kits and Saleen won't give you any support to get your kit fitting correctly (ask me how i know). Doug, can you find and review a Ford GT90?
Oh my GOD I forgot about the GT90! Talk about some deep cuts lol
@@gsmegaphone the GT90 is still dope and i still want one since it came out
My neighbour had one in 06, an ontario truck. I never could understand it then why an explorer was so crazy sounding and looking until now. Makes all the sense and brought back a memory I forgot I had lol
The Saleen XP8 SUV looked very gorgeous as it has similar look to modified Hummer H2.
For what it's worth, the rear headrests could indeed be adjusted
Yup, they're in the stowed position for visibility
I feel like doug really should have known that one. You can tell exactly what's up with them just by looking at it
@@Briggleton Doug claims to do research on the cars before he makes a video, but he makes an awful lot of mistakes like this. Admittedly, this is not the sort of thing that would be mentioned in a news article or review, but it's not an uncommon type of error for him.
Lol I’m glad someone else noticed. It has to be intentional….
Doug the type of guy to make some great and wholesome content
Not original. Not humorous. Save your limited brainpower for your career as a roadkill chef. Make millions happy by refraining from sharing your inane comments.
Screw the Cobra R, the Typhoon, and the srt 8, I WANT THIS!!!
Doug the kinda guy to call a Saleen XP8 a Sport Sports Utility Vehicle
I remember these... my parents bought a Limited V8 AWD in 96.. drove from NYC to Florida that summer... so many memories
Wow 161,000 miles. Kinda surprised they hadn’t switched over to the 4.6 modular by ‘98. The coolest explorer I remember were the 2 door sport models, I remember seeing a few with 5 speed manuals on the lot
Exploders had the good ol 5.0 until the mid 2ks
2002 was the Modular's first year.
Mazda Navajo 2dr we’re pretty sharp
@@jaubuchon28not all of them, and most were awd. Mine is 2wd with super 88 rear end 31 spline axles. Quick for what it is.
I wondered how long it would take for one of these to show up on your channel. I almost bought one of these in Cincinnati back in 2010. Ive always really liked the Explorer, mine are all first gens. I remember reading about these when they were new. I really wanted one when they came out, as i turned 16 in 1998. I settled for a free Lincoln Mark 7 through high school and bought a 92 explorer 2 door XL with a 5 speed and 4 wheel drive. It was fun off pavement! Id actually be curious to see what you would think of a Mark 7 LSC. Just a streamlined Thunderbird with GT mustang underpinnings.
The just looked up the Mark 7 LSC. Seems like a great looking luxurious car
@@honestyisthegucci They were pretty cars. They were the first American car to have the plastic headlights. They were referred to as Euro head lights at the time. I smoked many an unsuspecting honda in that car! I think 83-84 models you could option a BMW diesel in them too. Ive only ever seen one that way.
@@geoffpranger4002 You don't want the diesel. It is still of the smoky and slow variety. 114hp sounds like a lot, but it's not. Later Mark VIIs had better interiors, too, like later Thunderbirds.
This… is an actual death machine.
Why
I had a 96 Explorer for my first car and stumbled upon these on accident while looking for parts. I have wanted one so bad ever since and will die happy when I can get one in my garage
I had a Ford Taurus LX 1st generation, it was loaded, had great little features everywhere and lasted 290K miles. Ford made great cars in the 80s and 90s.
I love Daddy Dave's car reviews......... you could make almost anything seem amazing
especially when he gets a percentage of the selling price
My dad bought a brand new 1996 corvette back in the day for $37,500. So… yeah. I’d rather have a corvette.
It's pretty incredible how far interior car quality has come in the past 25 years. Cars like this one are where the jokes about American cars being terrible come from. Those jokes were also well founded.
Pretty much every company from any country has had awful interiors past the 50’s and 60’s to save costs, well besides luxury and sports cars that is.
Tho I will say American cars around this time even in comparison had awful interiors lol
Thinking about it..that awd had to be a beast in 98…and probably came with the seats…those explorers were always light and quick-and they lowered it..very cool suv to own..
Had a 2000 Explorer V8. Went to the Orange County Saleen Open House in 2002 and was able to pick up the Explorer Saleen parts on super discount. Picked up the Saleen fiberglass hood, 18" speedline wheels (silver), Carbon fiber mirrors (they were real CF), sway bars and rear spoiler for 90% off (it was dead by then). Changed the XLT rear emblem to say XLR. I was set. Was still a pig though.
.
Imagine a Saleen Windstar. Those rear axles would not stand a chance
A Saleen Windstar would have needed a professionally-built transmission. Given that the 3.8 had already been made by Ford with a supercharger, a functional hood scoop would have been necessary for clearance, but I think I'd like to see somebody try. Maybe Taurus SHO CV joints and an all-forged AXOD could get you a really quick van. Then again, a metal head gasket on that lazy Essex and a few more forged internals might be necessary. I remember the seats were comfortable, but the omnipresent smell of coolant reminded you that your engine would be troubling you again soon.
There is one that was owned by Tim Allen
Doug, this is how you get my attention. 90s oddball cars
That does seem very expensive for the day, although the cool/prestige factor is huge on this unit. My grandparents bought a fully loaded Mercury Mountaineer 5.0 AWD back in 1997 for $27k. And I thought that was a ton of money back then lol
Doug is the kinda guy who sponsors himself and thanks himself for the business
286 horsepower in a rare tuner vehicle. Soccer moms today would drive that and complain that it's too slow. What a time to be alive!
I had a 1998 Limited with the 5.0 AWD and two things Doug failed to mention is the headrests are extendable (they’re in the lay flat mode for folding down the seats) also the reason there’s such a large gap is because the back seats recline extremely far (making up the 8” gap). I had no idea they had a supercharged V8 Saleen though!
Oh, man! I had forgotten all about the Saleen vehicles. I think there was a kid in high school who had one of these, unless my memory is a bit off, haha!…couldn’t they have at least added black headlight and taillight covers, just to enhance the exterior look?…no moonroof, either? Come on, man!
I'd take this over a new Explorer ST. I was in high school when first heard of Saleen. First it was archival footage I saw on his fox body Mustangs, then it was 50 Cent driving an S7 in the video for candy shop.
@@bobhill3941 I was never a big fan of Explorers in general, so I’m with you: I’d rather have THIS model compared to the newer stuff.
@@bobhill3941I would take a brand new ST over this any day. It's just an old used explorer with a cheap looking body kit and 60 more horsepower.
@@watchesandcaps2566 Interesting point of view.
Pretty sure it's pronounced suh-leen...like Steve's last name. I owned a couple Saleen Mustangs and always said it that way.
Not to be that guy, but yeah, always makes me cringe to hear it like Saline
One of these with a 3rg gen Coyote swap and a 10 speed auto..it would be cooking. I've always like Saleens, I think the coolest looking cars ever made were the Calypso green 92-93 Saleen Mustangs. These are pretty good looking vehicles.
Doug, thanks for not ruining this gem with a co-host.