I'm looking to get rid of my fairy unreliable 94 Pontiac Trans Sport. I want something smaller and (much) more fuel efficient and best of all made of polymer, which is about the only feature I still enjoy about my van.
I have my eyes set on a 2001 Saturn SC1 with 5 speed and approx. 70,000 km (or 43,000 miles) that I see at my local dealer lot. It seems to be priced right. I want to know if there is anything specific I should look out for? Mechanically and cosmetically what can (and does) typically go wrong with such car that I may be able to spot? I plan on taking the car to my mechanic, so if there are some problem areas you can point out to me, I'll ask him to check it. Also, I have been told to stay away from twin cam engines in Saturns (actually GM cars in general). Is there tany ruth to that? Is SC1 a better choice than SC2 as far as reliability is concerned?
My dad (honda-owner-who-says-he-will-never-buy-american-again) is laughing at me for even considering a Saturn. I have owned many imports before, but don't want to go there again. Please help, and thanks in advance.