Italy vs USA — 1989 vs 1986
| SZ ES-30 Sprint Zagato | Fiero GT V6 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 210 hp | 140 hp |
| Torque | 181 lb-ft | 175 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,959 cc | 2,837 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 6.8 sec | 8.3 sec |
| Top Speed | 152 mph | 120 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.9 sec | 16.4 sec |
| Weight | 2,778 lbs | 2,750 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,510 mm | 2,377 mm |
| Length | 4,058 mm | 4,063 mm |
| Units Produced | 1,036 | 83,974 |
| Original MSRP | $80,000 | $11,999 |
| Value (Excellent) | $200,000 | $22,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 6/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 5/10 |
On balance, the 1989 Alfa Romeo SZ ES-30 Sprint Zagato makes a stronger case on paper with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. However, the 1986 Pontiac Fiero GT V6 counters with better value, and its appeal extends beyond mere numbers. Choose the 1989 Alfa Romeo SZ ES-30 Sprint Zagato for outright capability, or the 1986 Pontiac Fiero GT V6 for a more distinctive ownership experience.
The rivalry between Italy and USA automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1989 Alfa Romeo SZ ES-30 Sprint Zagato versus 1986 Pontiac Fiero GT V6 is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 1989 Alfa Romeo SZ ES-30 Sprint Zagato holds a clear advantage in raw power with 210 hp compared to 140 hp, a 70-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Alfa Romeo SZ uses a V6 SOHC 12V displacing 2,959 cc, while the Pontiac Fiero relies on a V6 OHV with 2,837 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1989 Alfa Romeo SZ ES-30 Sprint Zagato edges ahead at 6.8 seconds versus 8.3 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 1,036 units built, the 1989 Alfa Romeo SZ ES-30 Sprint Zagato is considerably scarcer than the Pontiac Fiero's 83,974 examples. On the collector market, the 1989 Alfa Romeo SZ ES-30 Sprint Zagato commands a significant premium over the 1986 Pontiac Fiero GT V6, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1989 Alfa Romeo SZ ES-30 Sprint Zagato rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.