Engine Options
The Pontiac Fiero GT was powered by two distinct engine options, each with its own set of characteristics that affected performance and driving experience.
2.8L V6 Engine
- Displacement: 2.8 liters (173 cubic inches)
- Horsepower: 140 horsepower at 4800 rpm
- Torque: 155 lb-ft at 2800 rpm
- Fuel injection system: Multi-port fuel injection
- Compression ratio: 9.5:1
- Redline: 5200 rpm
- Recommended octane: Regular unleaded gasoline
The 2.8L V6 engine provided a smooth and responsive power delivery, making it suitable for daily driving and spirited road excursions. Its multi-port fuel injection system helped to improve fuel efficiency while maintaining performance.
3.8L V8 Engine
- Displacement: 3.8 liters (232 cubic inches)
- Horsepower: 215 horsepower at 4800 rpm
- Torque: 275 lb-ft at 2800 rpm
- Fuel injection system: Multi-port fuel injection with electronic throttle control
- Compression ratio: 9.5:1
- Redline: 5200 rpm
- Recommended octane: Premium unleaded gasoline
The 3.8L V8 engine was a powerhouse, offering more horsepower and torque than the 2.8L V6. Its advanced fuel injection system with electronic throttle control provided improved power delivery and better fuel efficiency.
Transmission Choices
The Pontiac Fiero GT’s transmission options played a crucial role in enhancing its overall driving experience. The two available transmissions were designed to cater to different driver preferences and needs.
5-Speed Manual Transmission
The 5-speed manual transmission was available exclusively on the 2.8L V6 engine option. This transmission featured a close-ratio gearset, which allowed for smooth and precise shifting between gears. The clutch type used in this transmission was a dual-mass flywheel with a diaphragm spring design, providing a balanced feel during acceleration and deceleration.
- Gear ratios: 3.25 (1st), 2.00 (2nd), 1.44 (3rd), 1.09 (4th), 0.84 (5th)
- Final drive ratio: 3.73:1
The close-ratio gearset and balanced clutch design made the 5-speed manual transmission an ideal choice for drivers who enjoy spirited driving and frequent shifting.
4-Speed Automatic Transmission
The 4-speed automatic transmission was available on both engine options, providing a more relaxed driving experience for those who prefer to leave the shifting to the transmission. This transmission featured a throttle-matched converter with electronic shift control, which helped to optimize acceleration and deceleration.
- Gear ratios: 2.54 (1st), 1.63 (2nd), 1.00 (3rd), 0.70 (4th)
- Final drive ratio: 2.95:1 The 4-speed automatic transmission was designed for everyday driving, providing a smooth and comfortable ride with minimal effort required from the driver.
Both transmission options were designed to complement the Pontiac Fiero GT’s engine options, allowing drivers to choose the combination that best suits their driving style and preferences.
Handling Capabilities
The suspension system of the Pontiac Fiero GT was designed to provide a balance between ride comfort and handling agility. The car featured a transverse-mounted, MacPherson strut front suspension with gas-pressurized shocks, while the rear suspension used a live axle with semi-elliptical leaf springs and trailing arms. This setup provided a relatively soft ride on straight roads, but allowed for improved cornering stability when pushed hard.
The Fiero GT’s steering system was also optimized for handling responsiveness. It featured a variable-ratio power steering rack with a 16.3:1 ratio at the center, which provided a comfortable and precise driving experience. The car’s turning circle measured just 35.4 feet (10.8 meters), making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces.
In terms of braking performance, the Fiero GT was equipped with power-assisted disc brakes all around, with 11-inch ventilated rotors up front and solid 10.2-inch rotors at the rear. The car’s braking system was designed to provide consistent stopping power under a variety of conditions, and its anti-lock braking system (ABS) helped to prevent wheel lockup during hard stops.
Together, these components worked in harmony to provide a smooth and responsive driving experience. With its agile suspension, precise steering, and powerful brakes, the Pontiac Fiero GT was well-equipped to handle a variety of driving scenarios, from leisurely cruises on the highway to spirited jaunts through the twisties.
Acceleration and Braking
The Pontiac Fiero GT’s acceleration and braking capabilities are a testament to its design as a high-performance sports car. Under the hood, the 2.8L V6 engine produces 200 horsepower and 210 lb-ft of torque, giving it the power needed to launch from 0-60 mph in just 7.4 seconds.
On the quarter-mile track, the Fiero GT can reach speeds of up to 93.1 mph, making it a formidable opponent on the strip. Its stopping distance is equally impressive, with a braking distance from 60-0 mph of only 133 feet.
One key factor contributing to the Fiero GT’s acceleration and braking performance is its power-to-weight ratio. With a curb weight of just 2,750 pounds, the Fiero GT has a power-to-weight ratio of 7.27 lbs/hp, making it one of the most agile sports cars of its era.
The Fiero GT’s handling dynamics also play a crucial role in its acceleration and braking performance. The car’s suspension system is designed to provide a smooth ride while still maintaining responsive handling, allowing drivers to take advantage of the Fiero GT’s impressive power output.
Comparison and Conclusion
The Pontiac Fiero GT’s performance specs make it a formidable competitor among sports cars of its era. Its acceleration and braking capabilities, discussed in the previous chapter, demonstrate its agility and responsiveness on the road. When compared to other sports cars of the time, such as the Chevrolet Corvette and Ford Mustang GT, the Fiero GT holds its own.
Handling Dynamics
The Fiero GT’s suspension system, featuring a combination of MacPherson struts and leaf springs, provides a responsive and comfortable ride. The car’s weight distribution, with a 51% front to 49% rear split, allows for predictable handling and stability at high speeds. Its relatively low center of gravity, due to the engine placement behind the driver, contributes to its impressive cornering capabilities.
Power-to-Weight Ratio
The Fiero GT’s power output of 200 horsepower from its 2.8L V6 engine is respectable, especially considering its curb weight of approximately 3,100 pounds. This gives it a power-to-weight ratio of around 6.5 lbs/hp, which allows for strong acceleration and responsive performance.
Quarter-Mile Times
With a quarter-mile time of 14.4 seconds at 94 mph, the Fiero GT demonstrates its ability to deliver strong acceleration over short distances. Its quick-reaction suspension system helps it maintain traction and stability during rapid acceleration, making it an enjoyable car to drive on twisty roads.
Stability and Control
The Fiero GT’s advanced braking system, featuring ventilated disc brakes at all four corners, provides excellent stopping power. The car’s electronic traction control system helps prevent wheelspin and loss of traction, ensuring stable cornering and smooth acceleration.
In conclusion, the Pontiac Fiero GT is a high-performance sports car that offers impressive acceleration, agility, and braking capability. Its engine and transmission options provide a range of driving experiences, from smooth cruising to spirited corner carving. Whether you’re a seasoned driver or a beginner, the Pontiac Fiero GT is sure to deliver an exhilarating ride.