While it’s not typically a producer of exotic cars, Saturn has been making regular vehicles since 1990. Now it’s the latest casualty in what has been a difficult few years for the auto industry.
(Photo by Josh Davis, exotic car photographer Fort Worth, TX. All rights reserved. Used with permission.)
Originally founded as a “different kind of car company,” Saturn became part of General Motors and went on to be a popular brand of automobile. However, the actual vehicle sales never met the aggressive targets, and the last Saturn vehicles were produced on Thursday.
As part of its general restructuring plans, GM will be ceasing production on Saturn vehicles. In 2004, the automaker stopped making Oldsmobile vehicles, and the Pontiac brand will also be eliminated in 2010.
It was originally thought that Saturn would be purchased by the Penske Automotive Group, but when that sale fell through, the brand was slated for a 2010 shutdown. Saturn dealerships will be closing in 2010, and Saturn factories in Michigan, Kansas, and Mexico have ceased production.
“2008 and 2009 have been hard years for the auto industry,” says Ron Sturgeon, owner of a Dallas exotic car rental business. “No one’s sure when things will turn around, but hopefully it will be soon.”
Sturgeon’s business offers a way for exotic car fans to drive their dream vehicle without dealing with an astronomical car payment. Exotic car rental is becoming a popular alternative to owning an exotic vehicle.
“One thing that I like about it is that you don’t have to be a millionaire to drive a Ferrari,” says Sturgeon. “You can just be a regular guy or girl.”
Beside exotic car rental, there are other alternatives for driving your dream car. You can join an exotic car sharing club or participate in a dream tour. Exotic car clubs offer members access to a wide selection of luxury and sports cars. Dream tours provide a one-day adrenaline-fueled driving experience.
Exotic car fans may be saddened to learn that the Saturn Sky Roadster will be affected by the demise of the car brand. While it wasn’t exactly considered exotic, the Sky Roadster was an affordable convertible sports car.
Kate Miller-Wilson is a professional freelance writer living near the Twin Cities.
