The Saturn's generally mediocre engine performance has kept it off theenthusiasts' radar screens. For 1996, the rather noisy engine has been refined
somewhat, reducing the noise levels to something approaching acceptable.
Two engines are available for the Saturn. The SL2 we drove, which is the sporty
model, comes standard with the 124-hp double-overhead cam 16-valve 4-cyl. The SL and
SL1 feature a 100-hp sohc version of the same engine.
Neither engine provides anything resembling compelling or spirited performance. We
prefer the 124-hp version on the general principle that more power is better than
less, especially when the cost differential is minor ($900 in this case). The engine
has proven quite reliable over the years. It won't get you around with verve, but it
will get you around.
Ride and handling are essentially unmemorable, which is not necessarily a bad
thing. The steering is reasonably tight and precise; the ride is neither harsh nor
soft. Although the car's handling is crisp and predictable, it doesn't coax the Mario
Andretti out of anyone's soul.
One area in which Saturn has been ahead of the curve is in offering traction