Basic Fiero Questions

[JimC]

I'm trying to get some basic, "Fiero 101" information to determine
whether I could, or should, consider getting a Fiero at this time. I had
one of the 1984 4-cylinder models, and I enjoyed driving it more than
any other car I have owned, despite its relatively crude suspension. It
was light and low enough to have some sports-car-feel and was exciting
to drive. I particularly enjoyed taking the moonroof out, storing it in
the front trunk, and driving the car with the top open.

Could someone give me some opinions on the following:

1) Where would you look for a Fiero (probably 4-cylinder, manual,
preferably 1988) in reasonably good, drivable condition? - What sources
would you search? (I'm in Houston but seldom see any ads locally.)

2) I probably couldn't afford to pay for a full reconditioning of one
not in good condition, so I would be looking for one in which the motor,
transmission, and other mechanical systems were in reasonably good
operating condition. - What suggestions does anyone
have for checking the car out, and what problems should I look for.

3) What are they typically selling for, inspected, tagged, and in
operating condition?

4) For those who have bought a used one in the past few years, have you
been able to keep it in good running condition such that you can get it
inspected, insured, and can drive it regularly? Do you drive it on the
freeways, to work, etc.? If so, what kind of ongoing expenses have you
experienced?

5) If I don't want to spend lots of time and money on the project, would
it be better to look at something else, such as an MR-2, or Honda 2000?
Are there other cars that would have the same feel as the Fiero?


Thanks for any information or suggestions.

Jim Cate

[JimC]

Post by JimC
I'm trying to get some basic, "Fiero 101" information to determine
whether I could, or should, consider getting a Fiero at this time. I had
one of the 1984 4-cylinder models, and I enjoyed driving it more than
any other car I have owned, despite its relatively crude suspension. It
was light and low enough to have some sports-car-feel and was exciting
to drive. I particularly enjoyed taking the moonroof out, storing it in
the front trunk, and driving the car with the top open.
1) Where would you look for a Fiero (probably 4-cylinder, manual,
preferably 1988) in reasonably good, drivable condition? - What sources
would you search? (I'm in Houston but seldom see any ads locally.)
2) I probably couldn't afford to pay for a full reconditioning of one
not in good condition, so I would be looking for one in which the motor,
transmission, and other mechanical systems were in reasonably good
operating condition. - What suggestions does anyone
have for checking the car out, and what problems should I look for.
3) What are they typically selling for, inspected, tagged, and in
operating condition?
4) For those who have bought a used one in the past few years, have you
been able to keep it in good running condition such that you can get it
inspected, insured, and can drive it regularly? Do you drive it on the
freeways, to work, etc.? If so, what kind of ongoing expenses have you
experienced?
5) If I don't want to spend lots of time and money on the project, would
it be better to look at something else, such as an MR-2, or Honda 2000?
Are there other cars that would have the same feel as the Fiero?
Thanks for any information or suggestions.
Jim Cate

I see some Fieros advertised on EBay Motors. Are most buyers satisfied
with the Ebay arrangements?

Would I be able to have one serviced at a local Pontiac dealership?
Repairing headlight motors, for example.

Jim

[Robert W Hughes]

you could start by checking http://www.lonestarfieros.org/index.html

Post by JimC
I'm trying to get some basic, "Fiero 101" information to determine
whether I could, or should, consider getting a Fiero at this time. I had
one of the 1984 4-cylinder models, and I enjoyed driving it more than
any other car I have owned, despite its relatively crude suspension. It
was light and low enough to have some sports-car-feel and was exciting
to drive. I particularly enjoyed taking the moonroof out, storing it in
the front trunk, and driving the car with the top open.
1) Where would you look for a Fiero (probably 4-cylinder, manual,
preferably 1988) in reasonably good, drivable condition? - What sources
would you search? (I'm in Houston but seldom see any ads locally.)

there was one on Craig's list here in Houston or Dallas or Austin (can't
remember which) recently

Post by JimC
2) I probably couldn't afford to pay for a full reconditioning of one
not in good condition, so I would be looking for one in which the motor,
transmission, and other mechanical systems were in reasonably good
operating condition. - What suggestions does anyone
have for checking the car out, and what problems should I look for.

A V6 typically holds up better than the 4...

Post by JimC
3) What are they typically selling for, inspected, tagged, and in
operating condition?
4) For those who have bought a used one in the past few years, have you
been able to keep it in good running condition such that you can get it
inspected, insured, and can drive it regularly? Do you drive it on the
freeways, to work, etc.? If so, what kind of ongoing expenses have you
experienced?

I have been driving mine for 21 years since I bought it new with very
few problems. Cars that have suffered unknown abuse at the hand of
uncaring drivers may not do so well.

Post by JimC
5) If I don't want to spend lots of time and money on the project, would
it be better to look at something else, such as an MR-2, or Honda 2000?
Are there other cars that would have the same feel as the Fiero?
Thanks for any information or suggestions.
Jim Cate