The 1987 Pontiac Fiero GT is a mid-engine American sports coupe, known for its V6 performance, distinctive styling, and collectible status among classic car enthusiasts.
Specifications and Performance
The 1987 Pontiac Fiero GT came standard with a 2.8-liter GM V6 engine, producing 135 horsepower and 165 lb-ft of torque, paired with either a five-speed manual or a three-speed automatic transmission. The model features a mid-engine layout that contributes to balanced handling and sporty performance. Manual-equipped models have a 3.61:1 axle ratio, enhancing acceleration and driving dynamics. This GT version could accelerate from 0-60 mph in about 7.9-8.1 seconds for manual models, with a top speed around 120 mph.
The suspension system was finely tuned, incorporating adaptations from contemporary GM front- and rear-wheel-drive units, with independent front and rear suspensions, unequal-length control arms, coil springs, shock absorbers, and anti-roll bars. This setup provided precise handling for a small sports car.
Standard safety and convenience features include four-wheel disc brakes, power brakes, tilt leather-wrapped steering wheel, power windows, air conditioning, and pop-up headlights. Optional extras often included sunroof and premium stereo systems.
Design and Interior
The 1987 Fiero GT is recognizable by its aero nose, fastback roofline, flip-up doors, and rear spoiler, often with two-tone paint schemes such as red/silver or the 1987-exclusive Bright Blue Metallic. Inside, it had bucket seats, a driver-oriented cockpit, and modern conveniences for the era like air conditioning, power locks, and a center console.
The car’s space-frame chassis was innovative for General Motors, supporting removable and repairable panels without compromising structural integrity.
Market and Collectibility
Originally priced at $13,489 in 1987, the Fiero GT has largely gained collector status due to its rarity, mid-engine layout, and distinctive 1980s styling. Only 15,968 GTs were made in 1987, making well-preserved examples highly sought after. Used models range from $3,500 to above $16,000, depending on condition, mileage, and originality. Low-mileage, one-owner cars with complete documentation are considered among the nicest survivors.
Maintenance and Common Observations
While the 2.8-liter V6 is generally reliable, it is sensitive to low oil pressure and requires monitoring to prevent engine damage. Common issues include aging engine and transmission mounts, exhaust leaks, minor rust in the battery or trunk area, and problems with pop-up headlamps. Many parts, including body panels and mechanical components, remain available through specialist suppliers and aftermarket vendors, making restoration and upgrades feasible.
Notable Modern Examples
Examples listed on collector sites highlight features such as low mileage, clean CarFax reports, restored mechanical systems, manual transmissions, 5-speed gear ratios, two-tone exteriors, and modern comfort touches like A/C and aftermarket warranty support. These attributes contribute to their standing as classic, fun, and collector-oriented American sports cars.
In summary, the 1987 Pontiac Fiero GT remains a unique blend of mid-engine sports performance, collectible appeal, and 1980s American automotive innovation. Enthusiasts prize it for its handling, design, and rarity, and the GT specifically offers an enhanced driving experience compared to base Fiero models.
1987 Pontiac Fiero GT Specs
| General | |
|---|---|
| Model Year | 1987 |
| Body Style | 2-door fastback coupé |
| Layout | Rear mid-engine, rear-wheel drive |
| Seating | 2 |
| Manufacture | Pontiac, Michigan, USA |
| Body Construction | Steel space frame, composite body panels |
| Base MSRP | $13,490 |
| 1987 GT Production | 15,968 units |
| Engine | |
| Type | 2.8L V6 OHV 12-valve (LB6) |
| Displacement | 2,838 cc (173 cu in) |
| Bore × Stroke | 3.50 × 3.00 in (89 × 76 mm) |
| Compression Ratio | 8.9:1 |
| Block / Head | Cast iron / Aluminum |
| Fuel System | Multi-port fuel injection (MPFi) |
| Engine Position | Transverse, rear mid-mounted |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Power & Torque | |
| Horsepower | 135 hp (101 kW) @ 4,500 rpm |
| Torque | 160 lb-ft (217 Nm) @ 3,600 rpm |
| Power-to-Weight | ~19.3 lb/hp |
| Transmission | |
| Standard | 5-speed manual |
| Optional | 3-speed Hydra-Matic automatic (THM-125C) |
| Final Drive Ratio | 3.65:1 |
| Performance (estimated) | |
| 0–60 mph | ~8.1 sec (manual) |
| Quarter Mile | ~16.3 sec |
| Top Speed | ~125 mph (201 km/h) |
| Dimensions | |
| Length | 165.8 in (4,211 mm) |
| Width | 69.0 in (1,753 mm) |
| Height | 46.9 in (1,191 mm) |
| Wheelbase | 93.4 in (2,372 mm) |
| Front Track | 58.4 in (1,483 mm) |
| Rear Track | 59.3 in (1,506 mm) |
| Ground Clearance | 5.3 in (135 mm) |
| Weight & Capacity | |
| Curb Weight | ~2,672 lbs (1,212 kg) |
| Fuel Tank | 10.2 gal (38.6 L) |
| Suspension | |
| Front | Independent, coil springs, anti-roll bar |
| Rear | Independent, MacPherson struts, coil springs |
| Package | WS6 performance-tuned |
| Steering | |
| Type | Rack and pinion (manual, no power assist) |
| Turns Lock-to-Lock | 3.0 |
| Brakes | |
| Front | Power disc |
| Rear | Power disc |
| ABS | Not available |
| Wheels & Tires | |
| Wheels | 14-inch alloy (crosslace design) |
| Tires | P215/60R14 |
| Standard / Notable Equipment | |
| Exterior | Aero cladding, rear spoiler, fastback roof, flip-up headlights, dual exhaust tips |
| Interior | Cloth buckets, tachometer, 120 mph speedo, full gauges, console |
| Comfort | AM/FM stereo, power brakes, tinted glass, rear defroster |
| Available Options | A/C, power windows, power mirrors, cruise control, leather trim |
FAQ
What engine is in the Pontiac Fiero GT?
The Pontiac Fiero GT is powered by a 2.8L V6 petrol engine with a displacement of 2,835 cc (173 cubic inches). It is an overhead valve, 12-valve design featuring multi-port fuel injection, a cast iron block, and aluminum cylinder heads. The engine is mounted transversely in a rear mid-engine position.
How many horsepower (hp) does a 1985 Pontiac Fiero GT have?
The 1985 Pontiac Fiero GT produces 140 bhp (142 PS / 104 kW) at 5,200 rpm and generates 169 lb-ft (230 Nm) of torque at 3,600 rpm.
What is the top speed of a Pontiac Fiero GT?
The Pontiac Fiero GT has a top speed of approximately 112 mph (180 km/h). With the 5-speed manual transmission, it can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in roughly 8.1 seconds and completes the quarter mile in about 16.3 seconds.
How much does a Pontiac Fiero GT weigh?
The Pontiac Fiero GT weighs approximately 2,672 lbs (1,212 kg) at the curb. Its lightweight construction is achieved through a steel space frame chassis combined with non-load-bearing composite body panels.
Is the Pontiac Fiero GT All Wheel Drive (AWD)?
The Pontiac Fiero GT is not All Wheel Drive. It is a rear-wheel drive vehicle with a mid-engine layout, meaning the engine sits behind the passenger cabin and drives the rear wheels only. This configuration was inspired by exotic European sports cars and made it the first mass-produced rear mid-engine car built by an American manufacturer.