There were at least two different ratios on steering in the 84-87 models one is about 2 1/2 turns of the steering wheel and one is 3 or 3 1/2. My 88s has a much tighter turning radius than any of my pre 88s.
The reason behind it on the pre 88s could be because of liability and cost constraints along with the econo commuter car image of the Fiero. The short wheelbase of the car with the parts bin chevette style LSA suspension along with the tied off steering of the citation style rear cradle known for bump steer all worked against the Fieros sports car like image. They probably didnt want the car to be too quick at steering especially at speed. There is a noticable amount of understeer which is better for the inexperienced masses to correct in an emergency situation than oversteer would be. I've owned Porsche's and they have oversteer with a quick steering ratio and are known to be very tail happy. Once the tail of a Fiero starts coming around it is very hard to stop it from doing so.
In 88 they completely changed the Fiero suspension both front and back, giving it better stability and a tighter steering radius. The 88 car has better handling and sportier feel to it, more true to the cars image as a sports car. Too bad they canned it. Thanks alot Corvette guys!!
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[This message has been edited by Erik (edited 10-27-2003).]
spin it through the turn 
