Re: Measuring Up to the Competition
Had several Fieros mainly because that was my Pontiac period but the real predecessor was the FIAT X1/9 (Which may be why the Fiero was a 2M4). Simultaneously there was the Toyota MR2 which was probably a better car but then I found it hard to take 1290ccs seriously. All three were small, mid-engine 2 seaters and relatively low priced
Also the mid-80s was a high point for GM with the perennial Corvette, Pontiac Fiero, Cad Allante, and Buick Reatta all overlapping (Olds got the Bravada). Each an entirely different concept and most are showing up on Craigslist these days.
I like my Reattas but they fill a different niche in my life, more lux-o-cruisers and satisfy my need for a 'vert so can appreciate a Crossfire coupe which is more of a toy/electronics test bed. Do believe the 88 Coupe a bit of a landmark car with the 6.5" touch screen CRT in the console.
Did consider a Solstice/Sky at one time but don't like 4s and they look, well, a bit broad in the beam. Coupe did steal a bit from the Crossfire though I do like the wheels.
So the Crossfire is more of a logical evolution of a 2 seat coupe or Grand Touring car stretching back to the fifties than something that sprang up by itself. Do wish the dash was a bit less, well, last century.
Oh well, have decided that the best place for the tablet is in landscape mode on the left side of the glove box. Just need to build a slide-in docking station from some .190 sheet aluminum. RSN.
Do agree, the stainless grille is a definite improvement.
ps Fiero problem was they were originally shipped with a three quart oil pan. Since Americans often let it get 2 quarts low this became a warrenty issue, the fires were incidental. For the recall GM went to a larger oil filter (PF52 instead of a 47) and trmarked the dip stick. They also added a shield over the starter wires. Is also the reason many cars added a "low oil level" sensor. (Reattae have one).
pps what does a Fiero have in common with a Trabant ? When they burn both produce toxic gasses.
Last edited by Padgett; Jan 2, 2014 at 11:09 PM.