HP/weight looks good, aftermarket parts seem readily available, parts are really cheap (engines under $300 around here), repairing minor body damage just requires swapping out plastic panels, and the car is simple to work on...really simple for a modern car (my wife has a '99)

Other than the Saturn I am also considering a Civic (ITC or ITA) and an RX7 (SRX7 or ITA). I am not looking to win right away, just looking to learn how to build and race on the big tracks, and maybe not finish last

I want to build my own car (I know buying one is cheaper/easier, but I want to do it myself)