Driving Impressions

The SC1 is not quick. Its 100 horsepower does a decent job of moving the little coupe down the road at a moderate pace, but just isn't up to anything much more demanding. The SC1 trails the competition in the horsepower column. The Neon has 132 horsepower, the Cavalier 120 horsepower, the Escort ZX2 130 horsepower. According to Saturn, the SC1 will accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in a leisurely 10.5 seconds. The question is, of course, do you want to go more quickly than that? If you do, and you want a Saturn, then you should immediately proceed to the SC2. Because of this, we recommend against ordering an SC1 with an automatic transmission. You should move up to the SC2 if you want an automatic. Otherwise, you'll be severely lacking in the acceleration department, which can make passing and merging onto busy freeways a bit challenging. The five-speed manual transmission, clutch and 100-horsepower engine made a happy threesome on our SC1, however. The shifts were smooth and the clutch was linear in its operation, which means there was no sudden engagement point. And the engine delivered its power in an even flow. Handling is one of the areas where the Saturn coupes excel. The suspension seems happy over almost any surface. Bumpy corners will not upset the handling balance. We enjoyed driving the SC1 over a favorite twisty Connecticut road; it took on a more aggressive personality when we shifted into third and squirting from corner to corner, using only the throttle and steering wheel. At other times, the SC1 easily settles into a satisfying motoring rhythm. It feels light and compact, the engine sounds are muted and wind noise is low. Its nimbleness makes the SC1 fun to drive.

Final Word

The design of the SC1 is a stunning success and we can't fault a curve or a crease. The interior, while simple, is also well executed. Our only complaint there is with the seats. The SC1 is built for drivers who do not attach much importance to horsepower figures. It's for value-conscious drivers who appreciate all the SC1 delivers in the way of features for a good price, as well as one of the best-looking small coupes on the road. However, the SC1 shines in the handling department and is more than a match for its competitors. Those who want a Saturn coupe, but would like to have more power than what's offered in the SC1 should consider stepping up to the SC2.