2002 Saturn SC 2 - Is it sporty?

Question

I've found a red 2002 Saturn SC 2(two door) for a decent price. This is going to be my first car, and I've read a lot of good reviews for it. Is it really as cute and sporty as they made it look in the picture? Or will it just wind up looking like some granny-mobile when I drive the whole 30 miles just to test drive it?

Answer 1

The Saturn SC-2 is a very reliable car.  Make sure it has never been in an accident - you'll have trouble later.  Also, check the following items:

1.  Valve body on the transmission - make sure it shifts into reverse when the car is warm (if it takes time to go into reverse, then the valve body is bad)

2.  Check the intake manifold for a coolant leak.  The Dex-Cool used in these cars isn't the best choice.  If the coolant is orange and the coolant tank is low (when the engine is cold), you may need work to be done.

3.  These engines vibrate a lot.  Turn the A/C on while at idle and make sure you are ok with the shaking.  This is normal and the car will drive fine, just make sure you are ok with this.

The SC-2 is a nice looking 3 door coupe.  It looks a little dated, but for a first car, its a great choice.  You can drive these cars well over 200,000 miles, as long as you do the maintenance.  The price is also a lot less than comparable Hondas and Toyotas.

Good luck!

Greg