1993 Saturn SW SW2 review from North America
"A good solid little car, worth the price, but nothing fancy"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
The alternator has gone out twice, four years ago and just now.
A few age-related problems, leaky hoses and the like.
One short bit of overheating.
Replaced the battery once.
Pump croaked once.
Sounds like a lot, but it's been nearly eight years. Thinking of getting a new one about now, since things are going bad a little more rapidly, and I have a long commute.
General comments?
In general, it's been a great car (our only one, for several years). Nothing fancy at all; a fair bit of wind & road noise inside at higher speeds, a rougher ride than more expensive cars.
For such a small car, you can fit an amazing amount of stuff in it. I've had five people in the car, the back full of gear, and a canoe on the top all at once, and while there isn't much acceleration with all that weight, it still goes along fine.
The gas mileage is great; I must admit that I gloat every time I'm at a gas station and fill up next to a suburban assault vehicle. On a ten-gallon tank, I get 300 miles of highway driving, sometimes more. I'm seriously considering getting another one.
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  | An economical, trustworthy vehicle for the long haul |
| 1995 - SW SW2 1.9L 4 cylinder DOHC 16v When properly maintained, an excellent choice! |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 1993 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2000 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.9 4 cyl Automatic |
| Performance marks | 9/10 |
| Reliability marks | 8/10 |
| Comfort marks | 7/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 9/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 9/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 0 miles |
| Most recent distance | 108000 miles |
| Previous car | Toyota Cressida Wagon |
| Date of Entry | 18th September, 2000 |