The 1984 Fiero is basically a mix of GM parts, with a unique body and design. Sales took off in 1984, as the first American mid engine car ever was released. A small number of Fieros had a "fire" problem. The factory that manufactured the Fiero engine was shipped faulty connecting rods which combined with the fact that the Fiero 2.5L engine ran a quart low on oil already, made for a fire starting recipe.

The 1984 Fiero came in three model variations: the Indy Fiero, which was a replica of the Indianapolis 500 Fiero pace Car; the SE, and the base coupe. The Indy Fiero came with special emblems, seats, and the "Aero" front end. All 1984 cars were equipped with the 2.5L TBI four cylinder engine. The number one complaint of 1984 owners was the lack of power.

For 1985 the GT model was released. It sported the Chevrolet built, Pontiac tuned, multiport fuel injected 2.8L V6 engine. The high output version of GM's regular 2.8 packed 140 BHP, and a healthy 170 ft-lbs of good old American torque. This new engine perfectly suited the Fiero. Unlike most exotic sports cars, it wasn't "too much" power for the average owner, but would still get you down the quarter mile in 15 seconds.

The new V6 was teamed up with the Muncie 4 speed transmission. The four cylinder remained basically the same for 1985, except for the 5 speed Isuzu built transmission that became standard on all manual transmission cars.

The next year for the Fiero saw some huge improvements. The new "fastback" body was revealed and named the new GT. It is rumored that when first revealed, members of the press mistook the GT for a new Corvette. This new GT is perhaps the most interesting American made car ever. All GT cars were V6's and most had the 4 speed transmission. The much needed Getrag 5 speed transmission was released in the middle of the production year, therefore, a small group of 86 GT's have 5 speed transmissions.

For 1987, several subtle improvements were made to both the 4-banger and the V6. Power was boosted on the 2.5L, as well as a distributerless ignition. Other than this, and the option of blue paint, the Fiero remained basically the same.

For 1988 the Fiero recieved an entirely new independent suspension, as well as much needed vented disc brakes. The SE model was dropped in favor of the Formula, a strictly performance model, without the weight of the fastback. It was rumored that the new suspension was designed by Lotus, but it was just that, a rumor. There is no truth to the 88 Lotus suspension. Yellow paint and T-tops became available.

There was also a rare limited production Mera model, a factory replica of the Ferrari 308. 1988 was the last year for the Pontiac Fiero. Different people have different ideas why it was cancelled. GM claims it was due to lack of sales, and a predicted loss for the next year. Some people say it was that the Fiero was becoming too competitive, and quickly gaining on their flagship, the Corvette.

The 1989 prototypes were very unique, almost space age, and definitely ahead of their time. In fact, the whole Pontiac Fiero, from day one was ahead of its time. How do we know this? Well, the Fiero is as alive today as it has ever been, and although not quite "rare" yet, they will get there.

(reprinted from the Golden Gate Fieros Newsletter, Volume 1, Issue 5, February 2000)