Image of 1985 Pontiac Fiero, Note: These illustrations use artistic license and may differ from actual historical models.

Introduction

The 1985 Pontiac Fiero is not just a car; it's a bold statement of innovation and American engineering. Born from the creative minds at General Motors, the Fiero was a departure from conventional design, introducing the masses to a mid-engine sports car experience without the exotic price tag. As Pontiac's first two-seater since the 1930s, this vehicle marked a significant moment in automotive history, capturing the hearts of enthusiasts with its unique blend of style and performance. One of the most intriguing facts about the Fiero is that it was initially conceived as a fuel-efficient commuter car, but it quickly evolved into a sports car icon.

Design and Innovation

The exterior styling of the 1985 Pontiac Fiero was nothing short of revolutionary for its time. With its low-slung profile and sharp, angular lines, it exuded an aggressive yet sleek presence on the road. The pop-up headlights and aerodynamic shape contributed to its futuristic appeal. Inside, drivers were greeted with a cockpit that prioritized ergonomics and driver engagement, featuring well-bolstered seats and tactile controls. Materials ranged from durable plastics to optional leather upholstery, reflecting both practicality and sportiness.

Technologically, the Fiero boasted features such as electronic fuel injection and optional four-wheel disc brakes, showcasing GM's commitment to modernizing their fleet. Color options varied from vibrant reds to subtle silvers, with Bright Red being a particularly popular choice among enthusiasts. The Fiero was available in different trim levels including the base Coupe, Sport Coupe, SE, and the high-performance GT model.

Historical Significance

The Pontiac Fiero's introduction was more than just another car launch; it represented a shift in American automotive design philosophy. The mid-engine layout was typically reserved for high-end sports cars, but the Fiero made this configuration accessible to a wider audience. Its impact rippled through the industry, prompting other manufacturers to consider more daring designs in their lineups.

Performance and Handling

Underneath its striking bodywork, the 1985 Fiero featured a 2.5-liter "Iron Duke" four-cylinder engine as standard, capable of propelling it to respectable speeds for its time. The GT model's 2.8-liter V6 engine offered improved performance with a top speed nearing 125 mph and an acceleration from 0-60 mph in about 8 seconds. Handling was one of the Fiero's strong suits; its mid-engine layout provided excellent balance and weight distribution, allowing it to tackle corners with confidence. Drivers often praised the communicative steering and how well the car responded to inputs.

Ownership Experience

The Pontiac Fiero found its niche among those looking for an everyday sports car experience. It served as a daily driver for many while also being cherished as a weekend showpiece or even used in amateur racing circuits. Maintenance is generally straightforward due to its shared components with other GM models of the era, making parts relatively easy to come by.

Fun Facts

The Fiero has its share of quirks and accolades. It was once used as an Indy Pace Car in 1984—a testament to its sporty image—and has been featured in numerous films and TV shows over the years. While some criticized its initial powertrain options as underwhelming for a sports car, these criticisms were largely addressed with later performance improvements.

Collector's Information

Today, the 1985 Pontiac Fiero enjoys a cult following among classic car enthusiasts. While production numbers were substantial—with over 370,000 units built during its entire run—the best-preserved examples or GT models can fetch higher prices on the collector market. Values range significantly based on condition and originality but expect well-maintained specimens to command anywhere from $5,000 to $20,000 or more.

Conclusion

The 1985 Pontiac Fiero stands as a testament to an era when bold ideas could turn into reality on four wheels. It encapsulates a period of ingenuity within General Motors and continues to be celebrated for breaking molds and setting trends in automotive design. Whether you're behind the wheel or admiring from afar, the Fiero remains an unforgettable piece of American automotive history.

1985 Pontiac Fiero Automatic brake pedal pad fits '78-88 GM A, Spec A, G Body-CB 101-DCB 101-D replaces the automatic brake pedal pad on many 1978-1988 General Motors A, Spec A and G body models. Also fits many 1982-1991 GM J, L, N and P body models. 4-1/2" wide X 2-1/2" long. Each

1985 Pontiac Fiero Trunk Liner. Loose weave, jet black. 50" wide-M 30Trunk Liner. Loose weave, jet black. 50" wide. Sold by the foot