Key Highlights of the Saturn S-Series Compact Cars
Discover the key features and design elements of the Saturn S-Series, a durable, dent-resistant compact car from the 1990s. Known for its plastic body panels, reliable performance, and affordability, the S-Series remains a popular choice for budget-conscious drivers. The vehicle offers spacious interior, safety features, and a variety of trims, making it both practical and stylish. Learn more about what made this car a standout in its era and its enduring appeal for collectors and everyday drivers alike.
Key Highlights of the Saturn S-Series Compact Cars
Saturn, a division once owned by General Motors, specialized in designing vehicles that combined innovation with affordability. The Saturn S-Series, a lineup of small cars, gained popularity for their durable, dent-resistant plastic bodies, offering owners low maintenance needs. These vehicles featured a unique spaceframe design with plastic panels that prevented rust and dents, making them a practical choice in the 1990s and early 2000s.
Overview of the S-Series
The S-Series includes models built with a lightweight plastic shell and a robust frame. Side panels, including doors, are made of plastic, providing extra protection against dents and corrosion. This design contributed to their reliability and longevity.
Notable Features
The Saturn S-Series is a five-passenger vehicle with refined wheel covers and dent-proof panels. It features front-wheel drive, advanced airbags, and is available in four exterior colors, providing options for different tastes.
Exterior Characteristics
Models underwent minor exterior redesigns to stay contemporary. The overall length measures 178.1 inches, with a wheelbase of 102.4 inches. The lower body panels are made from rust-resistant polymer, while the steel roof, hood, and trunk add structural security. Its durable materials help keep the car looking new with minimal upkeep.
Interior Comfort
Inside, the vehicle comfortably seats five, with front bucket seats covered in cloth and sufficient headroom (39.3 inches) and legroom (42.5 inches). Features include a combined instrument panel, standard stereo system, theft alarm, and rear-window defogger. The driver’s seat offers height and lumbar adjustments, enhancing comfort for long drives. Additional interior amenities include cupholders, door pockets, a vanity mirror, and seatback storage.
Performance and Engine Options
The SL and SL1 trims are powered by a 1.9-liter engine producing 100 horsepower, while the higher-trim SL2 offers 124 horsepower. Transmission choices include a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic. Fuel economy stands at approximately 22 mpg city and 32 mpg highway.
Safety Features
Optional safety features include anti-lock brakes and traction control, with curtain airbags available across models. Safety also includes child seat anchors, rear door child safety locks, an emergency trunk release, and a rear center lap belt.
Entertainment Options
The vehicle's entertainment system includes an AM/FM stereo with cassette and CD, with a six-disc changer option for higher trims, ensuring enjoyable drives.
Storage Capacity
The S-Series offers 12.1 cubic feet of trunk space, expandable by folding down rear seats for larger cargo needs.
Trim Levels and Cost
Starting at approximately $10,500, the S-Series comes in multiple trims, with prices rising to about $13,500 depending on features and configurations.
