Input about the Iron Duke needed

I am looking to buy a Fiero notchback. I am in my 30's and not looking to race or prove anything. I just want a sporty sunny day touring car. I would like to here from some STOCK 4cyl owners. Are they spirited performers or do they struggle to climb hills? I am only considering 4spd models. There is an 84 that I might be looking at this weekend. Is a 4cyl worth it or should I only look for a 6cyl?

Any input is appreciated

Tom

The iron duke is a very peppy and strong engine...to a point.
I own as many 4 cyl Fiero models as V6's, and my personal opinion is that they are not that much different in the big picture. This subject though can become a heated one by some who swear the V6 is so much more of an engine than the iron duke. The V6 gives you more higher end top speed, but you lose a bit with gas mileage and a bit more weight as the V6 is a heavier engine.
A few of my stock 4 bangers sound and respond very similar to most stock V6 Fieros. I added dual exhaust, a performance cat and a few other tid bits, but it is mainly stock and can impress even the most skeptical if they actually get to see it perform in person.
Many however prefer the V6 because it is a bigger engine, sounds more impressive "mentally" when some one asks you what you have for an engine, and some feel that it looks a bit more modern under the deck lid over the iron duke. If you have an iron duke and want a newer look to it, I highly recommend trying to locate the old Holley air cleaner cover that looks sweet in place of the standard air cleaner cover.
Personally, I enjoy all Fiero models and styles, and if the car is taken care of properly and in good condition it will give you many many years of enjoyement no matter what engine is under the deck.

Here is a pic of what the 4 banger looks like in my sons '85:
http://images.cardomain.com/member_images/6/web/210000-210999/210386_457_full.jpg

Steve

Thanks for the input.

Tom

My first Fiero was a 4-bannger 5 speed. I got dissed for it a bit, but never had any complaints in it. I took it over the pass & didn't has a problem. Needless to say I did get dissed for having it... till my friends drove it. If you want to go over 100 often you might think about changing some things on it, but mine was 100% stock. Now I have the V6 Auto. The Auto makes it loose.
What I really liked about the Duke set up was when I hit the gas it took off, I had really good responce. Then I would fly though the gears & find myself in the middle of nowhere just to ge there.
If I had my choice I'd do an engine swap on a V6, but when It comes to a daily driver the Duke. In short Auto go V6, 5-speed the Duke holds it's own.
Disclaimer: -keep in mind I haven't driven the 4-auto, or stick V6