Pennock's Fiero Forum
  General Fiero Chat
  Checked out an '85 SE V6 but concerned the price is too high - thoughts?

Post New Topic  Post A Reply
Email This Page to Someone! | Printable Version


next newest topic | next oldest topic
Checked out an '85 SE V6 but concerned the price is too high - thoughts? by rednotdead
Started on: 10-13-2014 05:19 AM
Replies: 19 (382 views)
Last post by: rednotdead on 10-27-2014 07:23 AM
rednotdead
Member
Posts: 98
From: Orange County, CA
Registered: Mar 2014


Feedback score: N/A
Leave feedback

Rate this member

Report this Post10-13-2014 05:19 AM Click Here to See the Profile for rednotdeadSend a Private Message to rednotdeadEdit/Delete MessageReply w/QuoteDirect Link to This Post
After a few months I'm once again itching at the thought of picking up a Fiero finally (in part pressured by my possibly upcoming move away from the SoCal area). This morning I checked out a CL offer for an '85 V6 SE Fiero. All stock and original parts, 28k miles, and nearly perfect interior and exterior (garage parked it's whole life). The owner purchased it back in 1986, lightly used from the dealer. Everything looks good (aside from the cassette not having been installed), and he's asking $4900. Not being entirely in the know, I had initially considered this a fair price just looking at the other offers - but after consulting the 2014 Fiero price guide by it seems the car should only be worth about 2k. This seems rather low to me, but I also don't want to possibly pay more than double what the car is "worth".

Another question which would impact my search - what is the likelihood that the pool of Fiero's might "dry up" in the next couple years? I really ought to be patient, but I have this nagging feeling that the better maintained specimens may become more a rarity in the future.

Thanks
IP: Logged
PFF
System Bot
hyperv6
Member
Posts: 5995
From: Clinton, OH, USA
Registered: Mar 2003


Feedback score: N/A
Leave feedback





Total ratings: 94
Rate this member

Report this Post10-13-2014 07:01 AM Click Here to See the Profile for hyperv6Send a Private Message to hyperv6Edit/Delete MessageReply w/QuoteDirect Link to This Post
Based on low mileage cars sold of late that is not a bad price for a car if there is nothing needed to be done to it.

I know of an 88 GT with low miles just sold for 14K.

I do not see the pool drying up but as time goes we will lose more of the low mile cars and the values will go up slowly.

The key here is you could buy a car with more miles and needs work but spend more than this asking price on fixing it up and it would still not be in as good of condition. Many original parts are getting harder to get and are not getting cheaper.

This car with the V6 and WS6 suspension is pretty much a GM with out the body panels. It has the GT interior, GT engine and GT suspension from 85. So you get all the good bits less just the nose, wing and ground FX.

The price here is fair. not a bargain but more than fair if no additional work is needed.

Lets put it this way try to find another car like this for any thing less. Odds are you will not find unless it needs work and has a 4 cylinder.

[This message has been edited by hyperv6 (edited 10-13-2014).]

IP: Logged
olejoedad
Member
Posts: 17911
From: Clarendon Twp., MI
Registered: May 2004


Feedback score: (5)
Leave feedback





Total ratings: 205
Rate this member

Report this Post10-13-2014 08:29 AM Click Here to See the Profile for olejoedadSend a Private Message to olejoedadEdit/Delete MessageReply w/QuoteDirect Link to This Post
/\ /\ /\

What he said.
IP: Logged
Fiero84Freak
Member
Posts: 4787
From: AR
Registered: Feb 2002


Feedback score: N/A
Leave feedback





Total ratings: 66
Rate this member

Report this Post10-13-2014 10:43 AM Click Here to See the Profile for Fiero84FreakSend a Private Message to Fiero84FreakEdit/Delete MessageReply w/QuoteDirect Link to This Post
The 1985 bumper pad SE with the V6 was a one-year only offering. There wasn't a V6 car in 1984, and for the next year in 1986 the SE trim level with a V6 became the "aero SE" (essentially, this was the carry over of the 1985 GT styling and options, since the 1986 GT was the fastback body style). Essentially, as mentioned above, this car is for all and intensive purpose a 1985 GT, just without the GT body work. There were a little around 7,000 of these made total so it's a relatively odd car to come across in modern times.

28,000 miles is incredibly low for a 1985 car, especially considering it's not particularly a special car. You usually only see later 1988 model and some 1987 model cars with low mileage, since after Pontiac announced the Fiero would cease people snatched up low mileage cars. 1988/1989 was enough time that earlier model Fieros had accumulated a good deal of miles on them.

I'd say the price is very fair and reasonable if everything is up to date and there are no glaring issues with the car. The paint job is a bit of a turn-off for me personally, since it means that any potential touch-up or paint work is likely going to require a full repaint of sections to match. If you're fine with it though I'd say I don't see anything overly wrong with the price.
IP: Logged
TONY_C
Member
Posts: 2747
From: North Bellmore, NY 11710
Registered: May 2001


Feedback score: (2)
Leave feedback

Rate this member

Report this Post10-13-2014 11:34 AM Click Here to See the Profile for TONY_CSend a Private Message to TONY_CEdit/Delete MessageReply w/QuoteDirect Link to This Post
Beware of low mileage Fieros. The odometer on these cars is by far the easiest I have ever seen to roll back. I could roll a Fiero odometer back to any mileage you want in less than 30 minutes and that includes removing and replacing the cluster.
IP: Logged
tshark
Member
Posts: 4388
From:
Registered: Feb 2014


Feedback score:    (6)
Leave feedback





Total ratings: 68
Rate this member

Report this Post10-13-2014 01:42 PM Click Here to See the Profile for tsharkSend a Private Message to tsharkEdit/Delete MessageReply w/QuoteDirect Link to This Post
Low mileage can be checked somewhat with carfax.

If the car is in great shape, and you're willing to pay that much, it could be a nice car.

I know there are some nice '88 GTs that didn't sell for $3250 (on ebay, 52K), $5500 (in CA, 58K).
IP: Logged
hyperv6
Member
Posts: 5995
From: Clinton, OH, USA
Registered: Mar 2003


Feedback score: N/A
Leave feedback





Total ratings: 94
Rate this member

Report this Post10-13-2014 06:17 PM Click Here to See the Profile for hyperv6Send a Private Message to hyperv6Edit/Delete MessageReply w/QuoteDirect Link to This Post
For that price even if you did restoration yourself you could not do it that cheap with the same results if it is that low of mileage car.

Like I have been preaching it is often times better to save up and buy a better low mile car than to fix and weld up a $900 rust bucket. In the long run you would have a better car and often spend the same or less. This is not just Fieros but many other cars anymore.

IP: Logged
rpro
Member
Posts: 2920
From: Rockledge, FL
Registered: Jun 2006


Feedback score:    (16)
Leave feedback





Total ratings: 76
Rate this member

Report this Post10-13-2014 06:25 PM Click Here to See the Profile for rproSend a Private Message to rproEdit/Delete MessageReply w/QuoteDirect Link to This Post
It's not a bad price. I would offer him $4000 and see how he reacts.
IP: Logged
tshark
Member
Posts: 4388
From:
Registered: Feb 2014


Feedback score:    (6)
Leave feedback





Total ratings: 68
Rate this member

Report this Post10-13-2014 06:31 PM Click Here to See the Profile for tsharkSend a Private Message to tsharkEdit/Delete MessageReply w/QuoteDirect Link to This Post
Yes, my first Fiero was a learning experience. Finally sold off the rust bucket and bought a nice car. I mean, one that wasn't a rust bucket--not a showcar. I can't afford to maintain a showcar. I expect mine to remain a nice car.
IP: Logged
Raydar
Member
Posts: 40686
From: Carrollton GA. Out in the... country.
Registered: Oct 1999


Feedback score:    (13)
Leave feedback





Total ratings: 460
Rate this member

Report this Post10-13-2014 06:45 PM Click Here to See the Profile for RaydarSend a Private Message to RaydarEdit/Delete MessageReply w/QuoteDirect Link to This Post
As the others have said, if the mileage can be verified through Carfax or Autocheck, and it's otherwise in good condition, it's worth whatever you're willing to pay for it. Check the floors and inside the trunk for rust, on the sides in the upper section.
A lot of people consider this car to be the equivalent of a Formula (V6 with non-aero body) although, in reality, the SE is probably better optioned than most Formulas.
The only thing I don't care for is the paint, but then again, you can remove every body panel and replace them in a days time.

------------------
Raydar
88 Formula IMSA Fastback. 4.9, NVG T550

Praise the Lowered!

IP: Logged
rednotdead
Member
Posts: 98
From: Orange County, CA
Registered: Mar 2014


Feedback score: N/A
Leave feedback

Rate this member

Report this Post10-13-2014 11:15 PM Click Here to See the Profile for rednotdeadSend a Private Message to rednotdeadEdit/Delete MessageReply w/QuoteDirect Link to This Post
Thanks for the helpful replies everyone - roughly confirms my thoughts. Apart from the paint scheme (which I thought I liked at first but upon seeing it in person it's just a bit too contrast-ey) and a couple minor quibbles this really is an ideal Fiero for me. But seeing as it's an entirely frivolous purchase for me, I might just have to wait a bit longer to scratch that itch while I accumulate some more savings. In the meanwhile I'll toss him that 4k offer and see what happens (but I doubt he'll take it).
IP: Logged
PFF
System Bot
mmeyer86gt/gtp
Member
Posts: 3851
From: galt, ca
Registered: Sep 2001


Feedback score:    (161)
Leave feedback





Total ratings: 73
Rate this member

Report this Post10-13-2014 11:42 PM Click Here to See the Profile for mmeyer86gt/gtpSend a Private Message to mmeyer86gt/gtpEdit/Delete MessageReply w/QuoteDirect Link to This Post
i love that paint job if you want to trade for an 87 maroon gt body i would be down.

[This message has been edited by mmeyer86gt/gtp (edited 10-13-2014).]

IP: Logged
Fieroseverywhere
Member
Posts: 4242
From: Gresham, Oregon USA
Registered: Mar 2006


Feedback score:    (14)
Leave feedback





Total ratings: 89
Rate this member

Report this Post10-14-2014 07:41 PM Click Here to See the Profile for FieroseverywhereSend a Private Message to FieroseverywhereEdit/Delete MessageReply w/QuoteDirect Link to This Post
The 85 SE v6 is an awesome car. I believe they are the fastest stock fiero built. The 85V6 was rated at 140Hp (later ones 135hp) and the body is lighter then other fieros. I drove mine for many years and still miss it sometimes. I'm thinking that car might have been white at first. Just like Ferris Beuler's sister! Ha!

[This message has been edited by Fieroseverywhere (edited 10-14-2014).]

IP: Logged
rednotdead
Member
Posts: 98
From: Orange County, CA
Registered: Mar 2014


Feedback score: N/A
Leave feedback

Rate this member

Report this Post10-15-2014 01:30 AM Click Here to See the Profile for rednotdeadSend a Private Message to rednotdeadEdit/Delete MessageReply w/QuoteDirect Link to This Post
 
quote
Originally posted by Fieroseverywhere:

The 85 SE v6 is an awesome car. I believe they are the fastest stock fiero built. The 85V6 was rated at 140Hp (later ones 135hp) and the body is lighter then other fieros. I drove mine for many years and still miss it sometimes. I'm thinking that car might have been white at first. Just like Ferris Beuler's sister! Ha!



Damn, you make it all the more tempting. I didn't realize the body was lighter as well (by how much)? I must admit one of the drawbacks is the weight - even with the V6 you feel it a bit.
IP: Logged
sardonyx247
Member
Posts: 5032
From: Nevada, USA
Registered: Jun 2003


Feedback score:    (88)
Leave feedback





Total ratings: 218
Rate this member

Report this Post10-15-2014 04:49 AM Click Here to See the Profile for sardonyx247Click Here to visit sardonyx247's HomePageSend a Private Message to sardonyx247Edit/Delete MessageReply w/QuoteDirect Link to This Post
In my opinion, yes a low mile car, but why was it repainted?
Not original paint, drops the value of being low mile, thus not authentic.
Not coming as it did from the factory makes the low miles mean a whole lot less.
Collector value is gone, go from there.
IP: Logged
rednotdead
Member
Posts: 98
From: Orange County, CA
Registered: Mar 2014


Feedback score: N/A
Leave feedback

Rate this member

Report this Post10-15-2014 05:15 AM Click Here to See the Profile for rednotdeadSend a Private Message to rednotdeadEdit/Delete MessageReply w/QuoteDirect Link to This Post
 
quote
Originally posted by sardonyx247:

In my opinion, yes a low mile car, but why was it repainted?
Not original paint, drops the value of being low mile, thus not authentic.
Not coming as it did from the factory makes the low miles mean a whole lot less.
Collector value is gone, go from there.


Yes, perhaps this is true. But I wouldn't be purchasing it to make a buck for resale: perhaps I'm being naive, but I'd like to imagine I would keep the car "forever".

The paintjob was described as "Original custom paint" - is it possible that the dealership may have painted it for the original customer?
IP: Logged
hyperv6
Member
Posts: 5995
From: Clinton, OH, USA
Registered: Mar 2003


Feedback score: N/A
Leave feedback





Total ratings: 94
Rate this member

Report this Post10-15-2014 07:01 AM Click Here to See the Profile for hyperv6Send a Private Message to hyperv6Edit/Delete MessageReply w/QuoteDirect Link to This Post
My impression the paint looks like it was something done in the 80's.

This is LA and back in the 80's it was not odd for people to ad paint like this.

I would speculate the white is original paint and the rest is 29 year old stripes.

This is why when I get someone wanting to do something real trendy with a car that they plan on keeping I try to get them to think what it will look like in 20 years. I too often have seen regret. I too have come close to doing something like that but later was glad I did not do it. Things like this are like getting that party till you puke tattoo that looked real cool when you were 21 but now look real stupid when you are 50 years old. Nothing wrong with modifications or tattoos but just consider how it will age with time.
IP: Logged
johnyrottin
Member
Posts: 5453
From: Northwest Florida
Registered: Oct 2007


Feedback score:    (8)
Leave feedback





Total ratings: 85
Rate this member

Report this Post10-15-2014 09:22 AM Click Here to See the Profile for johnyrottinSend a Private Message to johnyrottinEdit/Delete MessageReply w/QuoteDirect Link to This Post
More than I would pay for it. However, what you need to ask is "Is it worth $4500 to me?" If it is worth it to you then the value is there. Heck, for $4500 I would sell you my 84 Indy Pace Car which is original (but with an over roof scoop, new dew wipes, plus all parts replaced have been AC Delco) and fully functional. I drive it a few days a week back and forth the 7 miles to work. Runs perfectly and gets 34 mpg. 8 is too many Fieros! I need to thin my herd!!!
IP: Logged
rednotdead
Member
Posts: 98
From: Orange County, CA
Registered: Mar 2014


Feedback score: N/A
Leave feedback

Rate this member

Report this Post10-27-2014 07:16 AM Click Here to See the Profile for rednotdeadSend a Private Message to rednotdeadEdit/Delete MessageReply w/QuoteDirect Link to This Post
Update: to avoid junking up the boards I'll just post here - The asking price has been lowered to 4k, I'm going to see if I can bring it down a couple hundred more. The only issue I see so far (apart from arguably the paint-job) is the lack of a cassette player in the stock radio.

Something I didn't mention but bothers me from my last visit: I tried to test drive the car on my visit earlier, but I very embarrassingly was unable to properly operate the clutch/gears shift. Unlike my current Civic gearstick which has a distinct "two-part" action to select the gear (side->up/down), the Fiero's I've encountered are far more difficult to get into the right gear. This issue was greatly worsened by a miscommunication I had with the owner who had mistakenly told me to push straight forward to engage first, when instead I should have pushed slightly to the side. Thus I kept trying to start in 4th and we didn't determine the issue until killing the engine multiple times; eventually the clutch smelled a bit. I was too shaken to drive the car any further, and didn't get the chance to do any serious testing (the owner was very good natured about it but I truly felt terrible). Did anyone else have a similar issue getting used to the Fiero manual transmission? I've driven only a couple stick shifts (Civic and Escort) and this really caught me by surprise.

Another question (much more general but maybe someone could offer their 2 cents) - the owner has never replaced any parts on the car. Even though it's only 28k on the odometer, which components might have gone bad merely due to advanced age (and not through wear and tear)? I'm thinking hoses and gaskets, possibly, but really I'm too inexperienced to know...

[This message has been edited by rednotdead (edited 10-27-2014).]

IP: Logged
rednotdead
Member
Posts: 98
From: Orange County, CA
Registered: Mar 2014


Feedback score: N/A
Leave feedback

Rate this member

Report this Post10-27-2014 07:23 AM Click Here to See the Profile for rednotdeadSend a Private Message to rednotdeadEdit/Delete MessageReply w/QuoteDirect Link to This Post

rednotdead

98 posts
Member since Mar 2014
 
quote
My impression the paint looks like it was something done in the 80's.

This is LA and back in the 80's it was not odd for people to ad paint like this.

I would speculate the white is original paint and the rest is 29 year old stripes.

This is why when I get someone wanting to do something real trendy with a car that they plan on keeping I try to get them to think what it will look like in 20 years. I too often have seen regret. I too have come close to doing something like that but later was glad I did not do it. Things like this are like getting that party till you puke tattoo that looked real cool when you were 21 but now look real stupid when you are 50 years old. Nothing wrong with modifications or tattoos but just consider how it will age with time.


I agree, in principle. But actually while it's not entirely my cup of tea (and unequivocally dated) this particular paintjob isn't that bad to me. At least it's not airbrushed flames or anything like that. And after all, the car itself unabashedly 80s, so it's not out of place. But if I do decide to get it, I would consider a black paintwrap.
IP: Logged

next newest topic | next oldest topic

All times are ET (US)

Post New Topic  Post A Reply
Hop to:

Contact Us | Back To Main Page

Advertizing on PFF | Fiero Parts Vendors
PFF Merchandise | Fiero Gallery | Ogre's Cave
Real-Time Chat | Fiero Related Auctions on eBay



Copyright (c) 1999, C. Pennock