1996 Saturn SL (55-Type) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the 1996 Saturn SL (55-Type) ranges from 1058 kg to 1088 kg (2333 to 2399 lbs). This relatively low weight for a sedan helps improve fuel efficiency and handling agility. A lighter curb weight generally means better acceleration and braking responsiveness, as well as potentially lower tire and brake wear over time.

The Saturn SL sedan from 1996 offers 343 liters (12.1 cubic feet) of luggage capacity, which is sufficient for everyday grocery shopping, small luggage, or light cargo. While not as spacious as some larger sedans, it provides practical storage space for daily commuting and weekend trips.

Yes, the Saturn SL (55-Type), with its length of 4524 mm (178.1 inches), width of 1687 mm (66.4 inches), and height of 1397 mm (55 inches), easily fits into a standard single-car garage. Most residential garages are approximately 6000 mm (236 inches) long and 3000 mm (118 inches) wide, so this sedan leaves ample room for maneuvering and additional storage.

The 1996 Saturn SL comes with rim sizes of 14 or 15 inches, paired with tires sized 185/65 R14 or 185/65 R15 T. These tire dimensions provide a balance between ride comfort and handling. The relatively narrow 185 mm width helps improve fuel efficiency and reduces road noise, while the sidewall height (65% of tire width) offers sufficient cushioning for typical driving conditions.

With a width of 1687 mm (66.4 inches), the Saturn SL falls comfortably within the typical range for compact sedans produced in the mid-1990s. It is neither overly narrow nor exceptionally wide, making it easy to maneuver in tight city spaces while providing adequate interior shoulder room for passengers. This width dimension helped the SL compete favorably with rivals in ease of parking and urban usability.

The 1996 Saturn SL (55-Type) maintained a compact size similar to the original Saturn SL introduced in the early '90s, with minor refinements. The length and width remained within close range, but improvements focused more on design and interior ergonomics. This generation continued offering a low curb weight and modest dimensions, emphasizing fuel efficiency and practicality over significant size changes.

Standing at 1397 mm (55 inches) tall, the Saturn SL has a relatively low profile height which contributes to a lower center of gravity, helping enhance stability and handling. Ground clearance, although not specified exactly here, typically aligns with compact sedans of the era, balancing comfort and the ability to clear common urban obstacles. The moderate height aids aerodynamic performance and reduces wind resistance.

Compared to contemporary compact sedans such as the Honda Civic or Toyota Corolla from the mid-1990s, the Saturn SL (55-Type) offers similar exterior dimensions and curb weight. Its 4524 mm length, 1687 mm width, and sub-1100 kg curb weight make it competitive, providing a balance of compactness with enough interior and cargo space for practical daily use. The SL is slightly lighter, which may contribute to better fuel economy, but overall sizes and weights remain broadly aligned with competitors in this segment.

The 1996 Saturn SL focuses on practicality and comfort within its compact form. While exact interior dimensions vary, the car typically provides comfortable seating for up to five passengers, with adequate headroom and legroom considering its size. The design emphasizes simple, functional ergonomics and durable materials common to the era, making it a reliable and user-friendly choice for commuters or small families. Though not luxurious, the SL offers sufficient interior space for everyday driving needs.