>> what happens when enthusiasts and engineers are overruled
Or the engineers #’d up — happens.
I'm not sure that was so much the case with the Fiero. For the American auto industry, the mid-engine layout was new territory at the time, and the first year or so had some real problems with engine cooling. This was quickly resolved, but also arose from those backing the car being forced to use GM off-the-shelf parts for cost savings.
The performance was deliberately kept toned down throughout its life because GM Execs didn't want it to outshine that *other* two seater built by Chevy, or the Camaro or Trans Am for that matter.
With the right choices of engine, transmission and suspension, this little rocket could have been a world class performer, but was cancelled just as they were starting to get it right.