Pontiac Fiero History

The Fiero (1984–1988) was the first mass-produced, rear-mid-engine car from an American manufacturer — a two-seat sports car with non-load-bearing composite body panels bolted to a steel space frame. About 370,168 were built.

Early cars used a modest four-cylinder; the 1985 GT added a V6 with roughly 43 more horsepower and better suspension. The Fiero's reputation was damaged by an engine-fire problem on early 1984 four-cylinder cars (traced to defective connecting rods and oil leaks), and despite real improvements by 1988, GM ended production over slumping, unprofitable sales — just as the chassis was coming good.