1997 Saturn SL Base review from North America
"100% Economy Car"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
1. Crunchy sound from left front wheel (possible dirt in the CV boot?). Currently trying to ignore until Springtime.
2. Rusted gas tank retainer belt replaced @ 20K miles.
3. Numerous, free, recall-related, work done over the past seven years by local Saturn dealerships.
General comments?
Pros:
* Very economical (36-40 highway mpg).
* Room for four average-sized adults.
* Great city car, but lack of power steering make parallel parking a moderate challenge.
* A/C blows cold and the heat can't be beat.
* Dent resistant body-panels are a bonus.
* Ample storage (with rear seats folded) for groceries and IKEA furniture!
Cons:
* Armrests are solid, hard plastic. A little padding would have been nice.
* Engine is wimpy, but performance isn't the aim of the base SL.
Recommended reviews
| This is a perfect commuter car at a great price |
|
| One of the better 500 dollar beaters I've ever bought! |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Year of manufacture | 1997 |
| First year of ownership | 1997 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2004 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.8 SOHC Manual |
| Performance marks | 8 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 10 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 7 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 5 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 9 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 12 miles |
| Most recent distance | 545000 miles |
| Previous car | Chevrolet Nova |
| Date of Entry | 19th February, 2004 |