1997 Saturn S-Series Reviews, Pricing & Specs
Overview
After some noticeable changes in 1996, Saturn took some time off in 1997 to focus on the exterior with the S-Series. The 7 trims remain...
After some noticeable changes in 1996, Saturn took some time off in 1997 to focus on the exterior with the S-Series. The 7 trims remain the same: the SC1 and SC2 coupes, SW1 and SW2 wagons, and the SL, SL1, and SL2 sedans. Exterior updates included a rear spoiler for the coupes, standard fog lamps for the SC2, and a longer wheel-base for the coupes to match the sedans and wagons. Interior changes included optional black for the sedans, gray for coupes, and an optional cd player in the dash as an alternative to the changer in the trunk. The coupes seat 4 while the sedans and wagons seat 5. Trunk space comes out to 10.9 cubic feet in the coupes, 12.1 in the sedans, and 24.9 in the wagons. Gas mileage across trims averages out to 25 mpg in the city to 38 mpg on the highway. The SC1, SW1, SL, and SL1 use the same 1.9 L, 100 hp I4 engine while the SC2, SW2, and SL2 use a 1.9 L, 124 hp engine. All trims use standard 5 speed manual transmission or optional 4 speed automatic except for the SL, which only uses 5 speed manual. Air conditioning comes as an option in all trims. Consumers generally say that the 1997 Saturn S-Series provides solid performance for the price. However, durability, interior design, and engine noise remain a concern. The S-Series has also gained a reputation as an oil guzzler, especially the coupe. Word on the street says that Saturn needs to pick up the pace if it wants to expand its following in the competitive compact market.
What owners say
"Overall, owners of the 1997 Saturn S-Series have a positive view of their cars, praising them for their reliability and great gas mileage. Many enjoy the sporty feel and lightness, which make for fun driving experiences. However, some drivers pointed out downsides like a lack of power, poor performance in winter conditions, and some issues with build quality, including noise and general wear over time."
My SC2 gets great gas mileage, and I like the fun, sporty feel. With the sunroof open and windows down it is reminiscent of a convertible! It has been extremely reliable for years. Requires very little maintenance. I love it!
June 26, 2009Very good car reliable cheap on gas great mileage, this is just an all around great 4 cylinder engine very reliable like a Toyota but is a GM product.
March 12, 2023My mom bought this car new and gave it to us with 60,000 miles on it. It now has nearly 190,000 on it and burns only about 1/2 qt of oil every 3000miles and still gets 34mpg. The car has been pretty much trouble free and is easy to work on when necessary.
June 5, 2008What owners say
My SC2 gets great gas mileage, and I like the fun, sporty feel. With the sunroof open and windows down it is reminiscent of a convertible! It has been extremely reliable for years. Requires very little maintenance. I love it!
June 26, 2009Very good car reliable cheap on gas great mileage, this is just an all around great 4 cylinder engine very reliable like a Toyota but is a GM product.
March 12, 2023My mom bought this car new and gave it to us with 60,000 miles on it. It now has nearly 190,000 on it and burns only about 1/2 qt of oil every 3000miles and still gets 34mpg. The car has been pretty much trouble free and is easy to work on when necessary.
June 5, 2008I never really looked at these cars before but after buying this one to flip, I'm pretty impressed with the style. It doesn't have much for power but it is still fun to drive. Nice and low to the ground. If it doesn't sell I won't be upset and will likely end up driving it. Better gas mileage than my truck.
July 21, 2013Smooth running car for being an economy car. Have had problems with exhaust system recently, find hangers get loose and exhaust rattles pretty bad. Car is great on fuel, with fuel prices where they were I found it was a great car to own.
December 12, 2008Loved the car, my favorite that I've owned in fact. Only qualm was that the axle broke for some strange reason, other than that, great gas mileage, and a sporty look and ride. No complaints, would own another in a heartbeat. I wish I had never sold it. I miss that car.
August 7, 2008I guess the great thing about Saturns is that even though they have issues and cause a plethera of headaches, they stay running indefinitely. My valve cover gasket was worn out and the plugs were flooded with oil; it stayed running. The water pump went out; it stayed running. I had absolutely no oil and no coolant (female chromosomes allow that to happen to cars); it still stayed running. My SL2 is 10 years old and no matter what its woes I'll drive it for another 10 so long as it stays running.
July 15, 2007I bought this car to replace my girlfriend's 89 mercury topaz. I liked my s series so much that I thought I would get another one almost identical to it. This one has over 100,000 more miles than mine, but appears to have nearly all original parts(starter, alternator, p/s pump, exhaust system) it is not a fast car, but it does get excellent fuel mileage. typically see around 40 mpg hwy and 35 city. automatic transmission works well, although it saps out what little power the 100hp 1.9L sohc engine can make and makes acceleration lazy at best, similar to any 4 cylinder economy sedan. cruise control and power door locks with key-less entry are worth it if you can find one that is equipped.
January 28, 2013Great Gas Mileage, about 34 mpg. Fun to drive, but governor kicks in at about 107 and kicks the car around. Very small, easy to maneuver. Build Quality is alright, for being over a decade old, things are just starting to break and need replacing.
March 5, 2009Best car I've owned thus far. Quick, handled well, looked sexy, got 32mpg. If you can find one with under 100k miles, pick it up. Mine was one of the "factory freaks", which means something went terribly right with the engine. I was able to keep pace with Mustang GTs even before I modded her.
December 25, 2008Trims & specs
Base MSRP $11,995 | Seating 5 |
Engine N/A | Cargo Capacity 12.1 cu ft |
Combined MPG N/A | Drivetrain N/A |
Base MSRP $12,895 | Seating 5 |
Engine N/A | Cargo Capacity 12.1 cu ft |
Combined MPG N/A | Drivetrain N/A |
Base MSRP $12,595 | Seating 5 |
Engine N/A | Cargo Capacity 24.9 cu ft |
Combined MPG N/A | Drivetrain N/A |
Base MSRP $12,895 | Seating 4 |
Engine N/A | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG N/A | Drivetrain N/A |
Base MSRP $14,095 | Seating 4 |
Engine N/A | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG N/A | Drivetrain N/A |
Base MSRP $10,995 | Seating 5 |
Engine N/A | Cargo Capacity 12.1 cu ft |
Combined MPG N/A | Drivetrain N/A |
Base MSRP $13,495 | Seating 5 |
Engine N/A | Cargo Capacity 24.9 cu ft |
Combined MPG N/A | Drivetrain N/A |
