The Pontiac Mera is a unique and fascinating vehicle in automotive history, often mistaken for a Ferrari 308. Born from the Pontiac Fiero platform, the Mera was the brainchild of Bob Bracey, owner of Corporate Concepts in Capac, Michigan. Bracey recognized the Fiero’s space frame as an ideal foundation for a re-bodied sports car, leading to the creation of the Mera.
The Genesis of the Mera: Inspired by the Ferrari 308
When Pontiac introduced the Fiero with a V-6 engine, Bob Bracey saw immense potential. He and his team at Corporate Concepts explored various car designs for a re-body project. The Ferrari 308 emerged as the top choice, capitalizing on its popularity fueled by the “Magnum P.I.” TV series and its undeniable visual appeal.
After nearly two years of meticulous clay modeling and design refinement, the Pontiac Mera debuted in 1987. Approximately 88 Fiero GTs were transformed into 1987 Meras, marking the beginning of this distinctive model’s production run.
1987 vs. 1988 Pontiac Mera: Key Distinctions
The introduction of the 1988 Pontiac Fiero brought a shift in the Mera’s foundation. The 1988 Mera utilized the Fiero Formula chassis, favored for its better value proposition. This model year saw a larger production, with about 159 units built on the Formula chassis, bringing the total Mera production to approximately 247 vehicles.
A significant upgrade for the 1988 Mera was the inclusion of replica aluminum rims. These rims were specially commissioned from Cromadora of Italy, a company with a history of casting rims for Ferrari, adding an authentic touch to the replica. In contrast, the 1987 Mera models retained the original Fiero rims, which were repainted to match the car’s body color, maintaining a cohesive aesthetic.
Sales, Pricing, and Market Positioning of the Mera
The Pontiac Mera was exclusively sold through Pontiac dealerships as a new car, emphasizing its unique market position. Corporate Concepts did not offer Mera conversion kits to the public; only new Fieros were used for the official conversions, ensuring quality control and exclusivity. While not officially endorsed by General Motors, the Mera was presented as a Pontiac dealer option, similar to ordering conversion vans through dealerships, blurring the lines between aftermarket customization and factory offerings.
In 1988, the price range for a Pontiac Mera varied from approximately $24,000 to $28,000, depending on selected options from both MERA and Pontiac. Interestingly, this price point was in close proximity to the Corvette, placing the Mera in a competitive yet unique niche within the sports car market. It’s worth noting that all subsequent 308/328 “kit cars” are rumored to have been molded either directly from a Mera or from copies derived from a Mera, highlighting its foundational role in the replica car industry.
The Enduring Legacy and the MERA Registry
The Pontiac Mera, despite its limited production run, has cultivated a dedicated following. Recognizing the need to preserve the history of these unique vehicles, Rodney Dickman established the “MERA REGISTRY.” This registry currently lists over 90 Meras, connecting owners and enthusiasts and serving as a central resource for information and history.
A group of Pontiac Mera cars parked together at a Mera Reunion event, showcasing the community and interest surrounding these replica vehicles.
Many Mera owners, often professionals, may be unaware of the registry, highlighting the ongoing effort to locate and document these cars. In 1995, a MERA reunion in Detroit brought together 13 Meras, including a tour of the original factory, further solidifying the community and historical significance of the Mera.
Spotting a Pontiac Mera: What to Look For
The next time you encounter what you believe is a Ferrari 308, take a closer look. It might just be a Pontiac Mera, a testament to American ingenuity and a fascinating chapter in automotive history. If you happen to know of a Mera or its owner, Rodney Dickman encourages you to reach out and contribute to the MERA Registry, ensuring the preservation of this unique automotive creation.
A red 1988 Pontiac Mera car on display, with its distinctive styling and features visible, inviting closer inspection to identify it as a Mera rather than a Ferrari.
For information about the MERA Registry or to share information about a Pontiac Mera, please contact:
Rodney Dickman
7604 Treeview Drive
Caledonia, WI 53108
USA
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (262) 835-9575
