1984 Pontiac Fiero Sport Coupe review from North America

Clutch went out at 30,000 miles (2 years old)

Parking brake failed at 60,000 miles (4 years old)

Alternator belt broke at 60,000 miles.

Thermostat went bad at 70,000 miles.

1-3 shift cable broke at 75,000 miles.

Wiper motor failed at 80,000 miles.

Two starter motors, at 100,000 miles and 115,000 miles.

Passenger's side headlight motor went bad at 110,000 miles.

The left edge of the driver's side seat started to wear at about 110,000 miles.

Water pump failed at 126,000 miles.

I bought this car brand new in April of 1984, after waiting 6 months for delivery (that's how popular these cars were that first year.

It's been a blast to drive, and extremely reliable, but it is definitely not forgiving of poor maintenance or shoddy repairs, and let me tell you, sloppy dealer repairs were a huge part of this car's bad reputation. The other part was that it was just inexpensive enough to be bought by people who could afford the car note and gas, and little else, especially quality repairs.

The first 3 years I had it, it went 50,000 miles. It's now at 126,000 miles, so it's had a much easier life since then. Even so, the plastic body panels were pure genius; my car looks almost as good as the day I drove it home from the dealer.

The original Eagle GT tires had absolutely no traction; my present set of Eagle GT II's are ten times better in terms of handling.

The Iron Duke 4 lives up to its name; with regular oil changes, it runs like a top even after 21 years. And if you know how to work the 4-speed stick, it's fast enough. Plus, 28mpg on the highway.