Saturn people: What is there to know about the LW200?

http://columbiamo.craigslist.org/cto/4693072668.html

I am thinking that this might be a $1500 car. I would probably source a manual trans for it and some other fun Ecotec goodness but this looks like it could be a fun little wagon to add to the stable. Anyone know anything about handling or support on these?

I haven't a clue about the L-series, but I am working on a manual swap into a '99 SW2 right now. I fully approve of this idea.

Some friends of mine have a LW200. It's their "family truckster" they use for dirty jobs and snow commutes when they don't want to risk their newer Volvos. It's been very reliable for them which is why they still have it - it doesn't cost them enough in upkeep to be worth selling.

I'm not sure a manual swap is common, but has probably been done. Next time I see them I'll try to remember to ask. I think he's still active on Saturn forums.

Did a little reading up on the L series and trans swaping. Apparently, you need all new everything. Like axles, all the motor and trans mounts, ECU (figured this one), etc... Not saying that I won't get it for $1500 and wait for a $500 donor but it is something to consider. It may just get a built 2.4L Ecotec running a hacked ECU and I tell the BCM to go berkeley itself.

I know that the L200 logo always looks like it says "LEGO" to md