Need Advice

[Project86FieroSE]

I have 2 86 Fieros. One is an SE and the other is an SE with GT panels. (some previous owner did this at some time, not a very good conversion) The "GT" has a good motor, but many other issues. The Original SE has the better body (except for the rear clip) but the engine is bad. Since the "GT" is only a "GT" because of the rear clip, tail lights, and GT rims, would the SE be the car to restore since it is an original SE? I do not know if the "GT" is worth fixing if it is not a true 86 GT.

 

[tucsonsean]

If you're going to do a true restoration, it won't matter which one you choose, because you'll be taking it down to the frame, and can just use the best parts from each as you rebuild it.

But if you're talking about putting it back on the road in a generally stock condition (but not fully restored)--and you're on a budget--I'd pick the one that's closest to driving down to the DMV for tags. (One of the virtues of the Fiero is that the body panels don't rust, and they bolt on and off fairly easily.)

I'm not restoring my '85 2m4 notchie, but when I bought it, it had been painted '88 Bright Yellow and had '88 black honeycomb 15" GT wheels on it. I liked the paint job (my favorite car color), but I promptly traded the GT wheels to a buddy for the 14" Turbos that were stock in '85.

It's old and it's your car and there'll never be more of them made. After 20-some years, it can comfortably be however it pleases you. Good luck!