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Low-Mileage Formula: 2,500 Mile 1988 Pontiac Fiero

This 1988 Pontiac Fiero Formula has just 4,000 KMs from new, which translates to just under 2,500 original miles! Outside of the GT-spec cars, the Formula was the one to buy with its much-improved styling and ample boost in performance. This one doesn’t have the preferred manual transmission but since it’s such a time capsule, it’s likely not destined for backroads hustling. Find it here on Kijiji with an asking price of $14,000.

When Road & Track compared a new Formula against the supercharged Toyota MR2 of the same era, the MR2 was a fair bit more engaging to drive when put head-to-head. However, the Formula addressed numerous ills of the first-generation Fiero, which paired a gorgeous body with mid-engined design but used a drivetrain better suited for cheap economy cars devoid of soul and style. Check out this Formula’s interior – it’s near perfect.

The six-cylinder mill looks perfectly happy in this cramped engine bay, and certainly gave drivers something to smile about. Road test editors at the time noted that the improved performance was a welcomed change of pace, but that the Fiero was still a bit of an oxcart to drive with a balky shifter and with slow steering. Of course, many buyers likely didn’t take this into consideration, instead choosing to focus on the car’s sexy looks and smart stance over black mesh wheels.

The Fiero’s cabin, in my mind, has always been a high point, even if drivers complained of too-low seating and poor outward visibility. The fit and finish of any 80s GM product will always leave a lot to be desired, but the Fiero at least looked the part with those low-slung bucket seats and auxiliary gauges. While the asking price seems high, finding any car with mileage this low is somewhat unrepeatable – especially with a less-appreciated classic like a Fiero.

Comments

  1. Avatar Grandpa Lou

    I drove a new one at a dealership. Iron Duke 4 speed. It was a delight.

    Like 1
  2. Avatar James Schwartz

    The 1988 Fiero is BY FAR the one to have, if you’re into them. The totally redesigned suspension was a monumental improvement over the 84-87 Chevette and Citation based suspension.
    This one looks very much like my former white Formula, though mine had a lot more miles on it. It went away in favor of my current beloved ’88 GT in rare factory yellow.

    Like 6
    • Avatar Paul

      IMHO the GT looks much better, I want one with a turbo 4 out of the new Camaro :o)

      Like 2
  3. Avatar Charles Tucker Member

    When GM finally got it right it quit making the model. This Fiero, my ’93 Allante, and more.

    Like 4
    • Avatar Bobby Longshot

      Yeah what a shame! I thought at the time that the Quad 4 engine would have been a nice addition to the line. Although I heard they were pretty buzzy and not especially reliable. If they could have crammed the 3800 Series II V6 in there, that would have been something. But no! Dead…

      Like 0
      • Avatar Shane Hiers

        I had an old grand am with the quad 4 and drove it for about 10 years with no issues. The body finally gave way. I had a fiero in that time with a 2.5. That quad 4 would have been more fun! The ignition coil housing shell went bad in most of them. But they were simple to fix

        Like 0
  4. Avatar djkenny

    Automatic. Deal Breaker “Nah”

    Like 4
  5. Avatar PairsNPaint

    I presently have in my garage an ’88 Formula with factory T-Tops. Considerably more miles (150k) than this one, but still in excellent mechanical condition. I’m working on cosmetics and not particular about originality – I’ll be adding side scoops, a vented hood and non-factory wing along with a color change. I’ve already resto’d the interior with power windows and locks and custom Mr. Mike’s seat upholstery. Future plans may include a 3800 SC swap if my resources and time allow. These are amazing little cars with unlimited potential!

    Like 4
  6. Avatar Bobby Longshot

    Yes! Do a 3800 SC swap!

    Like 0

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