Parts or Project Car? 1985 Pontiac Fiero GT

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The Pontiac Fiero remains an accessible, entry-level classic car that has plenty of fans who are committed to keeping these sporty, mid-engined coupes on the road. The Fiero has long been overlooked by the broader classic car market, cast aside as a cheap runabout versus a platform that commands respect from enthusiasts whether it is restored as a preservation-class specimen or a hot-rodded example with a powerful engine transplant. Whichever way you go, there’s a robust network of enthusiasts that stand ready to support you, so consider grabbing this 1985 Pontiac Fiero GT listed here on eBay with one bid to $500.

Somewhat shockingly, there’s a reserve on this car, which I would have advised the seller against. While this is fortunately a later car with the desirable factory upgrade to a 2.8L V6 that made 140 horsepower and 170 lb-ft of torque, this example is in fairly tired shape. The seller recounts how it has been in and out of indoor storage over the years, which has done the paint zero favors that is now heavily weathered; a respray is in order if you wish to bring it back to life. The listing also notes that the Fiero was partially restored in the late 90s, making it even more of a tragedy that it now looks like this.

The seller says several times in the listing that he will not part it out, so clearly that question has already been asked. And really, it looks too complete for a part-out, even with its relatively low value in mind. The transmission was supposedly replaced with a “5 speed Getrag” which was done when it was refreshed back in the 90s. The Fiero was apparently parked due to an overheating incident so it seems likely you’re going to have to pull the head and see if it stayed hot long enough to warp it. The interior is in very nice shape, and I’ve noticed over the years that every junkyard Fiero interior still seems to be in pretty good nick, which suggests the materials are fairly durable.

When the Fiero first rolled out with the Iron Duke four-cylinder, its fuel efficiency wasn’t considered a highlight due to the fact most car shoppers expected this sporty runabout to be somewhat quick. The V6 was a much-needed improvement if solely for image alone, but it also made the Fiero way more fun to drive. The seller’s car could be a worthwhile project if you can simply swap in a known good motor and find a paint job on the cheap, but it starts to make less sense if the reserve is higher than $1,000 or so. What do you think the future should hold for this once-sharp Fiero GT?

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Comments

  1. MarkyMark

    Bought a new ‘85 with the V6 and stick shift but it wasn’t the GT as I didn’t like the body cladding. Red with gray cloth interior. It was quick and a lot of fun to drive. As a young single guy at the time who played a lot of golf, it wasn’t really practical with the tiny trunks as my only car. Didn’t keep it long. This one has potential provided the engine is ok but any restoration needs a strict budget as the upside is limited. GLWTS.

    Like 1
  2. Mark F.

    Well I would have to say right now neither parts or restore. You can get a really nice one for 10k, and you would have more in this than what it’s worth. The only way this car is worth fixing up is if it holds some kind of sentimental value.

    Like 1
  3. Steve

    The bucket seats have become very desirable in that there are speakers in the headrest and easily fit in most sports cars, especially MGBs.

    Like 1
  4. Robbo

    Kit car builders are always on the lookout for Fieros especially V6 cars,so the market is getting more sparse than a few years ago.I helped a friend build one and he replaced 2.8 with a 4.3 V6 build to the old NASCAR specs,also replaced trans with a Getrag 5 speed,and updated suspension for street,or track day was great little car that drew many a complement, from competitors, and people on street and local car shows.He retired to Florida and car was backed over by a delivery truck less than 6 months later,he was devastated,and sold it to someone never to be seen again.Now he drives a minivan,and not sure how much longer he’ll be doing that,old age creeping up on us all.

    Like 1
  5. Paul

    Being in MA myself I’d want some seriously good underside shots of that car unless I was just buying it for parts.

    Like 0
  6. ken

    these suck to work on. been sitting for 18yrs due to an overheat issue it can’t be good. it’s a mass car you can bet there is rust on the underside but know way to know with no pics. make a good parts car for somebody with a Fiero

    Like 1
  7. Frank TA

    Did not sell with the high bid at $700.00. This was one of those sellers with the “I know what I got” attitudes. If he doesn’t part it out, it will probably be taken by a scrap yard.

    Like 2

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