Ford Fiesta vs Bmw 3 Series: Which is Better? (2026)
Side-by-side comparison of the Ford Fiesta and Bmw 3 Series, covering MOT pass rates, running costs, common faults, and overall reliability. Based on 3,290,419 real MOT tests.
Quick Verdict
The Bmw 3 Series comes out slightly ahead with a 83% MOT pass rate versus 78% for the Ford Fiesta. Both cars are competitive in this segment, but the Bmw 3 Series has a small edge on reliability. Consider test driving both before making your decision.
Ford Fiesta
78%
MOT pass rate
2,484,327 tests
Bmw 3 Series
83%
MOT pass rate
806,092 tests
More reliableFull Comparison: Ford Fiesta vs Bmw 3 Series
| Category | Ford Fiesta | Bmw 3 Series |
|---|---|---|
| MOT Pass Rate | 78% | 83%Winner |
| MOT Fail Rate | 22% | 17%Winner |
| vs National Avg | -4 pts | +1 ptsWinner |
| Est. Fuel Cost (8,000 mi/yr) | £1,195 | £1,076Winner |
| Insurance Group | 6-15 | 25-35 |
| Est. Depreciation/yr | £1,200-£2,200 | £2,000-£3,500 |
| Engine Size | 1.3L | 2.2L |
| Fuel Type(s) | Petrol, Diesel | Diesel, Petrol |
| Segment | Small family car | Premium |
| Avg Mileage | 66,345 miWinner | 105,806 mi |
| MOT Tests Analysed | 2,484,327 | 806,092 |
| Model Years | 33 years | 32 years |
| Best Year | 2021 (94%)Winner | 2021 (93%) |
| Worst Year | 1998 (65%) | 2000 (77%)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 3 Series Known Issues
- •DPF and emissions issues (diesel models)
- •Higher tyre and brake wear (larger engine)
- •Suspension wear on older models
- •Lighting defects (common on all cars)
Check a Specific Ford Fiesta
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Check a Specific Bmw 3 Series
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Ford Fiesta vs Bmw 3 Series FAQ
Which is more reliable, the Ford Fiesta or Bmw 3 Series?
Based on MOT data, the Bmw 3 Series is more reliable with a 83% 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 3 Series costs around £1,076. The Bmw 3 Series is cheaper on fuel. Insurance, depreciation, and repair costs also factor into total running costs.
Should I buy a Ford Fiesta or Bmw 3 Series?
The Bmw 3 Series comes out slightly ahead with a 83% MOT pass rate versus 78% for the Ford Fiesta. Both cars are competitive in this segment, but the Bmw 3 Series has a small edge on reliability. Consider test driving both before making your decision.
Ford Fiesta Running Costs
Full breakdown of annual costs, reliability, and MOT data
Bmw 3 Series Running Costs
Full breakdown of annual costs, reliability, and MOT data
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