I've been hanging around this forum for a while now because there'* an 02 SSEi in the family. I've been looking into replacing my 92 Saturn before winter, and there'* this car for sale in my neighborhood.

98 SSEi (White)
180k on it
Claims no engine/tranny problems (I'll drive it Tuesday)
Junk (but still functioning) power steering pump

$1500.

I also don't know what kind of condition the tires are in. Body looks fine, assuming for now that title is clean, guy says he has to sell it because he'* moving to Texas (I live in Michigan).

Any thoughts on this? On a side note - if I do buy this, can one get away with mild modding of the engine (drop one pulley size and supporting mods at most) on a motor with 180k?

Where in Michigan do you live? We have many members her in Michigan, and one of them might be able to look at if with you if you are unsure what to look for

Bay City. I know you're pretty near in Sanford. As far as mechanical things, I know a decent bit, but I'll be bringing my dad and his friend along before any final deal, and they have quite extensive histories when it comes to this. Just asking for ideas or things to maybe watch out for.

If it'* just a bad PS pump and nothing else that inhibits the car from moving, for 1500 clams I'd take it. You should be fine with doing a little light modding without worry of breaking stuff. But with 180k on the clock and a car almost 10 years old, then add into what past maintainence(or lack of) has been done, a few things may need attention.

If the 98 looks decent,keep the Saturn for the winter beater and the Ei for the summer ride

I drove by it today on my way home, and man that thing looks clean from what I saw. I looked at the driver'* side from a 20mph roll, looks decent at absolute worst, assuming the passenger side isn't torn up. I'm really looking forward to possibly buying this. Still wouldn't mind comments on specific things to check for from the Bonneville experts, or opinions on modding possibilities.