Saturn S-Series (3rd generation)
The dent-resistant, plastic-panelled pioneer of GM's 'different kind of car company'.
- Power
- 100 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 9.6 s
- Est. value
- $500–$3k
About the Saturn S-Series
The third-generation Saturn S-Series represented the final evolution of General Motors' ambitious 'clean sheet' project to combat Japanese imports. Built in Spring Hill, Tennessee, it retained the signature steel spaceframe and dent-resistant polymer body panels that made it virtually rust-proof. The 2000 model year introduced a significant interior redesign and updated exterior styling, though it remained mechanically similar to its predecessors. While it never quite matched the refinement of the Honda Civic, its 'no-haggle' pricing and unique construction earned it a cult following among budget-conscious American buyers.
Saturn S-Series specs
The Saturn S-Series produces 100 bhp (75 kW) and 156 Nm (115 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 9.6 seconds.
| Make | Saturn |
|---|---|
| Model | S-Series |
| Generation | 3rd Gen (3rd generation) |
| Trim | 1.9 |
| Years | 2000–2002 |
| Type | Saloon |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | United States |
| Original price | About $11,000 when new |
| Engine | 1.9-litre inline-four |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,901 cc (1.9 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 100 bhp (75 kW) at 5,000 rpm |
| Torque | 156 Nm (115 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,500 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 9.6 s |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,057 kg (2,330 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 95 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Saturn S-Series worth?
A typical Saturn S-Series is estimated to be worth $500 – $3,000 (about £373 – £2,200).
Its original price when new was about $11,000.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Saturn S-Series rarity in CarSpot
The Saturn S-Series is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 0 out of 100. Everyday cars you can spot on almost any street. A Common card is worth 10 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Saturn S-Series fun facts
- Saturn's polymer body panels were so flexible that minor impacts would simply pop back into shape, earning them a reputation for being 'dent-proof'.
- The S-Series was the only vehicle to use Saturn's dedicated Z-body platform, which was completely separate from other GM architectures.
- To ensure quality, Saturn used a 'lost-foam' casting process for the engine blocks, a high-tech method rarely used for mass-market cars at the time.