1997 Saturn SL review from North America

The radiator was split on the driver's side near the top, which I was told is common for this car.

The fuel pump is starting to fail and will need to be replaced in the next year or so.

The right axle to transmission seal is leaking and needs to be replaced.

The anti-torque mount is worn and needs to be replaced.

The clutch slave cylinder is leaking and should be replaced.

This Car is very much the "meat and bread only" trim level of the SL. The only option (on my particular car) is air conditioning.

I am very impressed with the overall fit and finish of this vehicle.

The car drives very well, and the steering isn't too heavy despite being non-power.

The rear tires are somewhat difficult to align without a special tool available only from Saturn, but not impossible. Setting front caster sometimes requires filing to obtain more clearance for adjustment, which is annoying.

The engine has enough power to make normal driving easy, but with the air conditioner passing is somewhat of a challenge. The engine also appears to have a somewhat narrow power-band, with power coming on at 3,000 RPM and above.

The 5 speed manual transmission shifts smoothly and has no noise. The addition of a dipstick to check the fluid level is a big plus to persons that perform their own maintenance.

One thing that I must note is this vehicle was owned by a retired couple that used it as a "tow vehicle" for their Recreational Vehicle, so most of the almost 300,000 miles on the car are towed miles.