The Mid-Engine V8 Pontiac Fiero That Preceded the C8 Corvette: A Restomod Legend

A bone-stock Pontiac Fiero SE, originally a Canadian-market model, has become a legend within the enthusiast community. This unique example has been under development since 2003.

The Pontiac Fiero SE restomod project began in 2003. The builder stretched the chassis by one foot to make space. The vehicle now houses a Cadillac Northstar V8 tucked in behind the cabin. This V8 drives only the rear wheels through a Porsche 901 transaxle.

To complete the engineering, Corvette chassis and braking components were stitched in. The builder also added Dellorto carbs to the V8. This level of detail is documented from the project’s start in an online thread.

Bespoke Details and Unique Style

This Fiero stands out due to several bespoke modifications. It includes a center-exit quad exhaust and HID headlights. It also incorporates various aero bits that make this Fiero stand out even more.

Inside, the car maintains the spirit of a project. You will find bucket seats, an Audi TT shifter, and a Firebird console. The interior is complemented by an upgraded audio system. However, the odometer does not work (the car is TMU), and the idle can reportedly be temperamental.

The Fiero That Saw the Future

The original builder intended the concept to show what a DIY “Indy Fiero” could be. He even once joked that its silhouette was what the next Corvette should look like.

When the C8 Corvette debuted in 2020 as a mid-engined exotic-shaped wedge, the builder joked it was a strange moment of vindication. GM’s billion-dollar supercar now shared a concept sketch with his garage-born Fiero. This Fiero, which has traded hands a few times over 20+ years, can now be yours. It is a Corvette-Porsche mashup that runs, ideal for the brave looking for carbureted, mid-engine chaos.