I don't own a Fiero (yet), but I've been doing quite a bit of Fiero research over the past year or so. In doing so, I've test-driven a 160k '87 coupe 4-cyl. auto, which was more responsive than I expected, and later a 110k '88 Formula 5-speed, which I REALLY wish I could have bought.
I've been lurking around the forum here for a few months now, and finally decided to ask an interesting question. Everything else being equal, which original Fiero combination would you prefer to live with: the V-6 3-speed auto or a 4-cyl. 5-speed?
My own answer for now would be the V-6 auto, if only for the fact that I'm more used to automatics. But I also realize that a small car with a 5-speed is a great combination.
Anyway, from my many fiero experiences if at all possible go with a V6, I am not down grading a 4 cyl any, but the v6's have been so much fun, wiether it was an auto or a stick for me, even though I currently own a 4 speed V6 and love every minute of it, and if you need stereo help always feel free to drop me a line! thanks Kent
My '86 GT is 4spd. '87 GT is auto. '84 Indy is a 4sp '85 Convertable is auto. All of them are fun to drive, but I prefer an auto only because I like to EAT and drive! it's to hard to shift and hold a cheeseburger!!!!
In the fun department, go with the 5 speed. Any car is more fun when you are running through the gears manually, even a 4 cyl.
On a practical note, if you outgrow the 4 cyl then you will be well equiped to swap it out for a high performance V6 or a V8. Since then you will have a good engine and the manual transmission.
------------------ If you find my advice useful, then please give me a positive rating, thanks...
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12:50 AM
Czar Member
Posts: 88 From: Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada Registered: Jun 2003
I prefer the manual, don't really care if the auto is faster, flyin' delta is even faster than the auto but neither is as fun as the M/T in my opinion. If I want to go fast I'll throw a big block in a Vega! I somehow manage to hold a drink, eat a cheeseburger, and talk on the cell phone all at the same time and never miss a gear! LOL
V6 with a 5 speed is over all a great driving experiance, my V6 4 speed is the weekend warrior racer. Many here will back me up when I say that the 4 speed is by far the most fun you can have with the V6, but the moment you have to do any highway driving you will regreat ever having the car. Constant shifting, any gear you choose you feel you still need to shift to the next grear (not any fun when you are already in 4th) and plan on frequent stops to a gas station, even light driving that 4 speed seems to suck a tank dry. Just my opinion.
thanks Kent 
