Ford Fiesta vs BMW 118: Compare by Reg (2026)
Side-by-side comparison of the Ford Fiesta and BMW 118, covering MOT pass rates, estimated running costs, typical issues, and overall reliability. Based on 2,782,790 MOT tests (DVSA MOT data for tests in 2024, retests included).
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Quick Verdict
The BMW 118 is the clear winner here, with an 86% MOT pass rate compared to 78% for the Ford Fiesta. You are less likely to face unexpected repair bills with the BMW 118, making it the more reliable and cost-effective choice overall.
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 All-Model Avg | -4 pts | +4 ptsWinner |
| Est. Fuel Cost (diesel, 8,000 mi/yr) | £1,318Winner | £1,510 |
| Est. 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 | 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%)Winner | 2020 (93%) |
| Worst Year | 1998 (65%) | 2004 (70%)Winner |
| Reliability Trend | Improving | Improving |
Pass rates are the share of MOT tests that ended in a pass (DVSA MOT data for tests in 2024, retests included), across all years of each model. Best and worst years need at least 100 tests. Fuel cost, insurance group and depreciation are our rough estimates from engine size and make, not official figures.
Common Problems Comparison
Typical issues to check on cars of this type and age, not faults measured for these models.
Ford Fiesta: Typical Issues to Check
- •DPF and emissions issues (diesel models)
- •Suspension wear on older models
- •Lighting defects (common on all cars)
BMW 118: Typical Issues to Check
- •DPF and emissions issues (diesel models)
- •Suspension wear on older models
- •Lighting defects (common on all cars)
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Ford Fiesta vs BMW 118 FAQ
Can I compare a Ford Fiesta and BMW 118 by registration plate?
Yes. Enter each car's UK registration plate on this page or use our free compare tool at carcostcheck.co.uk/compare to see MOT history, mileage, health scores and running costs for the exact vehicles you are considering, not just model averages.
Which is more reliable, the Ford Fiesta or BMW 118?
The BMW 118 has the higher MOT pass rate, 86% compared to 78% for the Ford Fiesta (DVSA MOT data for tests in 2024, retests included).
Which is cheaper to run, the Ford Fiesta or BMW 118?
At 8,000 miles per year, the Ford Fiesta costs around £1,318 in fuel, while the BMW 118 costs around £1,510 (our estimates for diesel versions from average engine size, with fuel at GOV.UK average pump prices for the week of 19 October 2026). 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?
The BMW 118 is the clear winner here, with an 86% MOT pass rate compared to 78% for the Ford Fiesta. You are less likely to face unexpected repair bills with the BMW 118, making it the more reliable and cost-effective choice overall.
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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