1994 Saturn SC SC1 1.9 SOHC from North America
Summary:
Very underrated car
Faults:
Leaks oil... the gasket.
C/v joint replaced.
General maintenance issues.
Overheats unless I have the A/c turned on; something has never been right with the computer and/ or thermostat.
Factory installed window tint is coming undone... very unsightly.
The clear coat is peeling off off my spoiler. Also very unsightly.
I had to have an upper engine mount replaced... the car does not handle speed bumps all that well.
General Comments:
Low power is annoying. You really need that boost to get you through an intersection when it's crucial.
Mountain passes are a challenge for the small engine.
I've put in a K & N Air Filter and platinum spark plugs for enhanced power, but I'm under no illusions that this thing could beat a Honda Prelude VTEC. :-)
It's fun to drive, which is why I wish this thing had been given an awesome engine in the first place. It really handles amazingly well on turns and cloverleafs, and at high speeds you can hardly tell you're going that fast. I've gotten it over 105 mph many times in Arizona.
3rd gear at times is like a kick in the pants.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No
Review Date: 31st July, 2004
30th Sep 2003, 11:39
It is encouraging to hear your Saturn has covered 430,000 miles without any major problems. I own a 1993 SC2 that has done 102,000 miles and has behaved fine so far, hopefully mine will turn out to be as good as yours.
Simon, England.