Saturn Curve

April 1, 2004
Finally, a sports car for Saturn, or at least an idea for one. Taking the engine and transmission from the Saturn Ion sedan, the Curve carries a supercharged 2.2-liter four-cylinder engine said to provide 230 hp and 220 lb-ft of torque.

The powerplant features variable-valve timing to help keep the Curve's fuel sipping at a minimum. A Getrag five-speed manual transmission links to the supercharged engine. The rear-wheel-drive Curve rides on a hydroformed frame rail chassis and carries independent front and rear suspensions. Twenty-inch wheels are wrapped with Continental performance tires, and 14-in. brake rotors with twin-piston calipers up front and single-piston rear calipers provide stopping power.

A glass canopy serves as the roof, while a front-hinged clamshell hood balances the rear-hinged trunk. Curved wood covers the center console, which is accented with aluminum. Interior lighting changes color. For example, when the doors open, lighting on the door panels changes to orange-red, acting as a warning light. One thing for certain: This is definitely not your typical Saturn.

 
Click the car below to view the article
 
Ford Shelby Concept
Saturn Curve
Volkswagen concept T
Chevy Nomad
Dodge Sling Shot
Lincoln Mark X
Hyundai HCD8
Mitsubishi Eclipse Concept-E
Chrysler ME Four-Twelve
Subaru B9SC
 

Sponsored Recommendations

Customizations to Get Standard Motors to Mars

Jan. 10, 2025
Clearly, the Martian environment can be harsh and unaccommodating to systems made to operate on Earth. Through a combination of standard industrial motors and creative collaboration...

No Access for Bacteria: An Inside Look at Maxon's Cleanroom

Jan. 10, 2025
Tiny drive systems for use in the human body have to be built in a clean environment, free of microbiological contamination. Welcome to the GMP cleanroom of maxon, where discipline...

High-Efficiency, Precision Drive Systems for Every Robot

Jan. 10, 2025
Robots assemble devices, explore space, and perform surgeries. To achieve human-like motion and accuracy they need powerful and highly precise drives. Learn about custom-made ...

The Importance of Motors in Transportation

Jan. 10, 2025
As we progress toward more efficient and automated systems, the need for robust and reliable motors in the transportation industry has become more critical than ever. Explore ...

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Machine Design, create an account today!