Review: 2000 Saturn SL

In 2002, when my husband and I were engaged, we began the search for a reliable vehicle. We were definitely on a budget with only $5000 to spend on a car. After visits to dealerships, researching on the internet and talking to knowledgeable friends, we settled on a 2000 Saturn SL. It had 25,000 miles on it and had been previously leased by a businessman. The price was right and time was closing in, so we bought it.

5 years and 75,000 miles later we are still driving and appreciating this car. In the way of luxuries, this car has little, if anything to offer. However, in the way of practicality, economy and dependability, it has met and exceeded all of our expectations. Here are several things I love about this car:

1. Manual transmission. Though I wasn't crazy about buying a stick shift, I was persuaded that the manual transmission would save on gas mileage, and possibly be less expensive to fix. Though at times I have bemoaned the fact that I can't drink coffee, talk on the cell phone and drive, I think it has saved us money over time.

2. Plastic body and steel frame. The steel frame by Saturn holds up very well in crash tests. Also, the plastic body looks nice, while we never have to deal with rust or chipped paint. I had been warned that living in a very cold climate (Northern Minnesota) that if the body was hit or bumped, it could cause a crack. This has never happened.

3. Gas mileage. This car has saved us so much money, especially since oil prices have gone through the roof. In the city we get about 30 miles per gallon, and on the highway, 35 and more. We have been able to make trips from Minnesota to Indiana for $60, which is nothing to complain about. Though we have considered buying a minivan several times, the gas mileage factor always keeps us with this car.

4. Dependability and mechanical soundness. Aside from routine maintenance (oil changes, new tires, etc.) this car has only needed one trip to a mechanic because of a cracked radiator cap. It cost us about $100. We have had absolutely no engine or transmission problems whatsoever.

What would I change? Well, if we would have had a little more money to work with, I would have liked to have some extras, such as cruise control and a CD player. Also, though the car is accommodating enough for routine commuting, it is not very comfortable for long road trips. However, for the money we had to invest in a car, the 2000 Saturn SL gave us excellent value for our money.