veryslow5point0,
A hearty congratulations on your "new" Saleen -- she sounds like a beaut!
The lower-case "c" on the bumper, as I understand it, would be the 8th car for that model year built by the now-defunct Saleen of Canada -- the "c" on the bumper does not mean an S281 Cobra. However, it sounds like you may indeed have an S281 Cobra built in Canada, that is, if you also have an SVT instrument cluster and Independent Rear
Suspension. I don't remember if you might still have the SVT Cobra emblem on the fender, but there's probably a "C" script on the rear decklid to the right of the S281 decal to indicate S281 Cobra.
To some, the S281 Cobra offers a nice balance between the Supercharged and the Extreme, plus the benefit of the IRS. Another benefit is exclusivity. Total production in S281 Cobra Convertibles in 2004 was only 10; 8 additional vehicles were coupes, as depicted here:
Saleen Owners and Enthusiasts Club - SOEC - Mustang Production -- so you've got a pretty rare model.
With your Ford VIN, you should be able to get its authenticity verified, build information, order a Letter of Authenticity, or a reproduction window sticker by calling Michigan at 800-888-8945 option 2 during regular business hours, Monday-Friday. Prices are about $40 and $75, respectively.
The build specs should be pretty spot-on from its U.S. counterparts, and you can research these details in our archives of U.S. literature:
Saleen Owners and Enthusiasts Club - SOEC - Vehicle Specification Sheets -- though the S281 Cobras were not prominently listed in in the public literature.
In brief, an S281 uses a slightly tuned Mustang GT powertrain. An S281 Supercharged adds a supercharger and a more aggressive tune. An S281 Cobra gets the additional standard tuning from SVT (a fabulous powertrain, by the way) plus an IRS. Then there's an S281 Extreme which is basically an S281 Supercharged but adds a built motor with forged internals and a 6-speed gearbox.
We do have photo posting capabilities on our forum, and we'd love to see your ride.
If you ever get out to the Seattle area in the summer, please consider joining us and Steve Saleen for the
Saleens at Mustangs Northwest Roundup, Thursday-Sunday, July 15-18, 2010. We regularly have several Canadian-built Saleens participate in the festivities, including an autocross, pony run, MCA show and the SOEC-sponsored People's Choice show on Sunday featuring autograph sessions with Steve -- it would be a great opportunity to have Steve sign your car!
Again, Congratulations, and we hope to see you in July!