Ford Fiesta vs Bmw 118: Which is Better? (2026)
Side-by-side comparison of the Ford Fiesta and Bmw 118, covering MOT pass rates, running costs, common faults, and overall reliability. Based on 2,782,790 real MOT tests.
Quick Verdict
This is a very close comparison. The Ford Fiesta (78% pass rate) and Bmw 118 (86% pass rate) are evenly matched on reliability. Your decision should come down to personal preference, running costs, and which feels better to drive. Both are solid choices in the small family car segment.
Ford Fiesta
78%
MOT pass rate
2,484,327 tests
Bmw 118
86%
MOT pass rate
298,463 tests
More reliableFull Comparison: Ford Fiesta vs Bmw 118
| Category | Ford Fiesta | Bmw 118 |
|---|---|---|
| MOT Pass Rate | 78% | 86%Winner |
| MOT Fail Rate | 22% | 14%Winner |
| vs National Avg | -4 pts | +4 ptsWinner |
| Est. Fuel Cost (8,000 mi/yr) | £1,195Winner | £1,434 |
| Insurance Group | 6-15 | 25-35 |
| Est. Depreciation/yr | £1,200-£2,200 | £2,000-£3,500 |
| Engine Size | 1.3L | 2.0L |
| Fuel Type(s) | Petrol, Diesel | Petrol, Diesel |
| Segment | Small family car | Premium |
| Avg Mileage | 66,345 miWinner | 83,479 mi |
| MOT Tests Analysed | 2,484,327 | 298,463 |
| Model Years | 33 years | 20 years |
| Best Year | 2021 (94%) | 2022 (97%)Winner |
| Worst Year | 1998 (65%) | 2004 (70%)Winner |
| Reliability Trend | Improving | Improving |
Common Problems Comparison
Ford Fiesta Known Issues
- •DPF and emissions issues (diesel models)
- •Suspension wear on older models
- •Lighting defects (common on all cars)
Bmw 118 Known Issues
- •DPF and emissions issues (diesel models)
- •Suspension wear on older models
- •Lighting defects (common on all cars)
Check a Specific Ford Fiesta
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Check a Specific Bmw 118
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Ford Fiesta vs Bmw 118 FAQ
Which is more reliable, the Ford Fiesta or Bmw 118?
Based on MOT data, the Bmw 118 is more reliable with a 86% pass rate, compared to 78% for the Ford Fiesta.
Which is cheaper to run?
At 8,000 miles per year, the Ford Fiesta costs around £1,195 in fuel, while the Bmw 118 costs around £1,434. The Ford Fiesta is cheaper on fuel. Insurance, depreciation, and repair costs also factor into total running costs.
Should I buy a Ford Fiesta or Bmw 118?
This is a very close comparison. The Ford Fiesta (78% pass rate) and Bmw 118 (86% pass rate) are evenly matched on reliability. Your decision should come down to personal preference, running costs, and which feels better to drive. Both are solid choices in the small family car segment.
Ford Fiesta Running Costs
Full breakdown of annual costs, reliability, and MOT data
Bmw 118 Running Costs
Full breakdown of annual costs, reliability, and MOT data
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