Image of 1987 Pontiac Fiero, sourced from www.classicautomall.com , Image Link.

1987 Pontiac Fiero: A Mid-Engine Marvel

The 1987 Pontiac Fiero not only turned heads with its mid-engine layout but also marked a significant chapter in American automotive history. As the first and only mass-produced mid-engine sports car by a major American manufacturer, the Fiero was Pontiac's bold foray into a market segment typically dominated by European marques. This two-seater, plastic-bodied sports car was a departure from traditional American automotive design, and it brought a fresh perspective to the roads of the 1980s.

Introduced in 1984, the Fiero was designed to help Pontiac shed its staid image and attract younger buyers. By its final year of production in 1987, it had evolved significantly from its initial offering. A notable moment in the vehicle's history was when it served as the official pace car for the Indianapolis 500 in 1984, solidifying its place in Americana.

Design and Innovation

The exterior of the 1987 Fiero featured sleek lines and a low-slung silhouette that were quite futuristic for its time. The pop-up headlights and well-defined wheel arches contributed to an aggressive stance that promised performance and excitement. Inside, the cabin was snug but sporty, with bucket seats and an array of gauges that gave drivers a cockpit-like feel. The use of plastics and other materials in the interior reflected a cost-conscious approach but maintained a look that resonated with the era's high-tech aspirations.

Technologically, the Fiero showcased innovation with its space frame design and use of composite body panels, which were resistant to rust and dents. Color options ranged from vibrant reds to subtle silvers, with bright red being a particularly popular choice among enthusiasts. The most iconic body style was undoubtedly the GT model with its fastback roofline that epitomized the sports car ethos of the time.

Historical Significance

The Pontiac Fiero's impact on automotive design cannot be overstated. It challenged conventional wisdom about American car manufacturing capabilities and showed that innovation could come from within Detroit's Big Three automakers. The Fiero's mid-engine design set it apart from nearly every other domestic vehicle on the road, influencing future designs in both aesthetics and engineering.

Performance and Handling

In terms of performance, the 1987 Fiero GT featured a 2.8-liter V6 engine capable of producing 135 horsepower, allowing it to reach 60 mph from a standstill in about 8 seconds—a respectable figure for its time. Its top speed hovered around 125 mph. The mid-engine layout provided excellent weight distribution, which translated into nimble handling around corners and stability at speed. Drivers often praised the visceral driving experience—the hum of the engine just behind their shoulders and the responsive feedback from the steering wheel made for an engaging ride.

Ownership Experience

The Fiero found use in various roles: as a daily driver for those attracted to its sporty image, as a show car for enthusiasts looking to showcase this unique piece of automotive history, or even occasionally as an amateur racing vehicle due to its balanced handling characteristics. Maintenance was relatively straightforward given its domestic origins, though some parts specific to the Fiero became harder to find over time.

Fun Facts

A little-known fact is that there were plans for a turbocharged version of the Fiero which never came to fruition due to its untimely discontinuation. Despite common criticisms over initial engine reliability issues and some ergonomic quirks, the Fiero has developed a cult following among collectors and classic car aficionados.

Collector's Information

Today, values for well-maintained or restored Fieros can range widely based on condition, mileage, and model year—with GT models generally commanding higher prices. While exact production numbers vary by source, it is estimated that over 370,000 Fieros were produced during its four-year run. As for appreciation potential, well-preserved examples have seen modest increases in value over recent years as nostalgia for '80s icons grows stronger.

Conclusion

The 1987 Pontiac Fiero stands as a testament to innovation within America's automotive industry during an era of change. Its distinctive design and engineering make it an important piece of history for collectors and enthusiasts alike—a symbol of what happens when convention is left behind in pursuit of something truly exciting.

1987 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

1987 Pontiac Fiero Trunk Liner. Loose weave, jet black. 50" wide-M 30Trunk Liner. Loose weave, jet black. 50" wide. Sold by the foot