Hello Xanth -

Well the alleged linkage issues ended up being a $1500 transmission repair.  So be it, she's shifting well now. 

I decided to stay the course with respect to getting the Fiero right, and handing it off to my older son.  He will be the third generation of us to have it (kinda cool) and he seems to like it as well as anything else I could have found cheap.   If you don't mind, please expect more questions from me going forward, and thanks for the input already.

Hello all -
I have just come from a reputable independent mechanic, where I had taken my '86 GT (4-sp, 118K) to have the transmission linkage checked and have the idle adjusted.  She gnashes instead of seating in second gear.  I am pretty sure it's the linkage as wear and sloppiness are apparent upon observation. 

My intent has been to get the Fiero right for my son to drive once he is licensed.  The mechanic advised that I reconsider, as the Fiero is a firetrap and a lemon.  I have known this vehicle for nineteen years, and it was been dependable while it was my dad's.  Further, I research NHTSA, etc. for fire related recall data and found no fire-related recalls for the V6 Fiero.  Since mine received dealer service through the 1990s, any recall fixes would have been accomplished. 

In terms of condition, the body is very good, the interior is great, and the engine is firing on all six and is smoke-free.  She seems to tach-up very slowly, and that the idle ranges from 1200 to 2000 depending on running temperature.  Otherwise, she runs and starts fine.

Having said all that, I would really welcome your thoughts as to whether  :-\this is a decent car for a teenager to start with, or should I reconsider?

got my vote.  by the way, very fine looking Fiero.