1997 Saturn SL review from North America
"Cheap and reliable transportation for a person without a lot of money to spend"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Before I bought the car the radiator needed to be replaced (a common problem on these cars) and the dealer replaced it for free before I picked it up. The only other thing I have had to do besides oil changes is replace the upper motor mount, which took 10 minutes and only cost $40. I would classify the motor mount as a regular maintenance item.
General comments?
Great little car, awesome gas mileage. Last tank averaged 37.7 mpg, with the worst tank of fuel coming in at 31.1 mpg and the best at 38.5 mpg. I think on a all-highway trip it would have no problem getting an even 40 mpg. Handling and performance aren't much to speak of, but it is an economy car so don't expect much. I would definitely get the manual transmission for the better fuel economy and performance, as well as the fun to drive factor.
The interior is about average for the class of budget compact cars, and the seats are comfortable for long trips. Everything is easy to reach and accessible, and the inside trunk release is very handy.
Recommended reviews
| This is a perfect commuter car at a great price |
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| One of the better 500 dollar beaters I've ever bought! |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model year | 1997 |
| Year of manufacture | 1997 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.9 SOCH Manual |
| Performance marks | 5 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 10 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 7 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 10 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 122093 miles |
| Most recent distance | 127215 miles |
| Previous car | Chevrolet C10 |
| Date of Entry | 12th September, 2004 |