Fiero GT
Fiero GT refers to the sport-oriented GT models of the Pontiac Fiero.
The GT was the most recognizable performance and appearance version of the Fiero. It was introduced for the 1985 model year and continued through the end of production in 1988.
Overview
The Fiero GT combined the Fiero's mid-engine layout with sportier styling, upgraded equipment, and the 2.8L V6 engine.
The GT name was used on two different body styles during Fiero production:
- The 1985 GT used the earlier notchback body style with aero-style bodywork.
- The 1986-1988 GT used the fastback body style.
Because of this, “Fiero GT” can refer to either the 1985 notchback GT or the later fastback GT, depending on context.
GT model years
The Fiero GT was available from 1985 through 1988.
Related model-year pages:
1985 Fiero GT
The 1985 Fiero GT was the first GT model.
It used the notchback body style and was based on the aero-body appearance introduced by the 1984 Indy Pace Car. It also introduced the 2.8L V6 as a factory Fiero engine option.
Important 1985 GT features include:
- Notchback body style
- Aero-style front and rear fascias
- Ground effects
- Rear spoiler, depending on equipment
- 2.8L V6 engine
- Sportier interior and trim compared with base models
The 1985 GT is visually different from the later fastback GT, even though both use the GT name.
Related topics:
1986 fastback GT
The fastback GT body style was introduced during the 1986 model year.
Because it appeared partway through the model year, enthusiasts often refer to the fastback 1986 GT as the 1986.5 Fiero GT. This is a useful enthusiast term, but it was not a separate official model year.
The 1986 fastback GT introduced the body style most commonly associated with the Fiero GT name.
Important features include:
- Fastback rear bodywork
- Flying-buttress-style roof/rear-quarter shape
- GT-specific rear clip
- Round tail lamps
- Aero-style bodywork
- 2.8L V6 engine
Related topics:
1987 Fiero GT
The 1987 Fiero GT continued the fastback body style.
The 1987 model year also introduced the second-generation headlight motor system across the Fiero line, replacing the earlier first-generation system.
Related topics:
1988 Fiero GT
The 1988 Fiero GT was the final-year GT model.
It retained the fastback GT body style but received the major 1988 chassis changes, including the redesigned suspension and improved brakes.
Important 1988 GT topics include:
- Final year of Fiero GT production
- Fastback body style
- 2.8L V6 engine
- 1988 suspension
- 1988 brakes
- Many 1988-specific parts
The 1988 GT is often considered one of the most desirable factory Fieros because it combines the fastback GT body with the improved 1988 suspension and brake systems.
Related topics:
Body styles
The Fiero GT used two body styles:
| Model year | GT body style | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1985 | Notchback | First GT model; aero-body notchback |
| 1986 | Notchback and fastback | Fastback GT introduced during the model year |
| 1987 | Fastback | Continued fastback GT production |
| 1988 | Fastback | Final-year GT with 1988 suspension and brakes |
The notchback and fastback GTs share the same general Fiero platform but use different rear bodywork and trim.
Engine
The Fiero GT used the 2.8L V6 engine.
The 2.8L V6 gave the GT more power and a more performance-oriented character than the 2.5L four-cylinder models.
Related topics:
Transmissions
Fiero GT models were available with manual and automatic transmissions, depending on year and option package.
Factory transmission topics include:
Earlier V6 GTs could use the Muncie 4-speed manual. Later V6 GTs could be equipped with the Getrag 5-speed manual.
The Isuzu 5-speed was the factory five-speed manual transmission for four-cylinder Fieros and should not be confused with the GT's V6 five-speed application.
Exterior features
Common Fiero GT exterior features include:
- Aero-style bodywork
- GT badging
- Sportier front and rear fascias
- Ground effects
- Rear spoiler on many cars
- Fastback rear bodywork on 1986-1988 GT models
- Round tail lamps on fastback GT models
Exact appearance details can vary by model year, options, restoration history, and previous-owner modifications.
Interior features
Fiero GT interiors generally included sportier trim and equipment than base models.
Common GT-related interior topics include:
- Sport seats
- GT trim
- Gauge package, depending on year and equipment
- Three-spoke steering wheel on many cars
- Model-year-specific interior colors and materials
- Optional equipment depending on the car
Interior parts may have been changed over time, so originality should be verified by inspection and documentation.
Relationship to the SE and Formula
The GT should not be confused with the SE or Formula.
The SE was available in several configurations and could include sportier equipment depending on year.
The 1988 Fiero Formula used the 2.8L V6 and 1988 chassis improvements but retained the notchback body style rather than the fastback GT body.
Related topics:
Identification
A Fiero GT may be identified by a combination of model year, VIN information, body style, trim, engine, badges, option codes, and physical inspection.
Because Fieros are often modified, repaired, repainted, or converted, identification should not rely on only one feature.
Items to check include:
- Model year
- VIN
- RPO codes
- Body style
- GT badging
- Engine
- Transmission
- Interior trim
- Rear clip and tail lamp style
- Documentation and previous history
Related topics:
Clones and conversions
Some non-GT Fieros have been converted to look like GTs.
Fastback body panels can be swapped onto other Fieros, and GT trim or badges may be added during repairs, restorations, or custom builds.
A converted car may still be valuable or enjoyable, but it should not automatically be represented as an original GT without supporting documentation.
Common problems
The Fiero GT shares many common Fiero issues, including:
- 2.8L V6 drivability problems
- Ignition module failure
- Vacuum leaks
- Exhaust manifold leaks
- Cooling-system issues
- First- or second-generation headlight motor problems, depending on year
- Brake and suspension wear
- Body panel damage
- Interior wear
- Electrical issues
- Previous-owner modifications
Related topics:
Collectibility
Fiero GT models are among the most recognizable and collectible Fieros.
Factors that can affect desirability include:
- Model year
- Fastback or notchback body style
- 1988 chassis improvements
- Mileage
- Condition
- Originality
- Documentation
- Transmission
- Color and options
- Rust or frame condition
- Quality of previous repairs or modifications
The 1988 GT is often especially desirable because it combines the fastback GT body style with the final-year suspension and brake redesign.
Notes
The GT name was used on both notchback and fastback Fieros.
When describing a Fiero GT, it is useful to include the model year because a 1985 GT and a 1987 GT are visually and mechanically different in important ways.