Ford Fiesta vs BMW 3 Series: Compare by Reg (2026)
Side-by-side comparison of the Ford Fiesta and BMW 3 Series, covering MOT pass rates, estimated running costs, typical issues, and overall reliability. Based on 3,290,419 MOT tests (DVSA MOT data for tests in 2024, retests included).
Comparing specific cars? Enter both reg plates
This page shows model-level MOT data. For the exact Ford Fiesta and BMW 3 Series you are viewing, enter a reg plate below for its MOT history, mileage checks and running costs.
Check a Ford Fiesta
Check a BMW 3 Series
Comparing two cars side by side? Use the free reg comparison tool →
Quick Verdict
The BMW 3 Series comes out slightly ahead with an 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 All-Model Avg | -4 pts | +1 ptsWinner |
| Est. Fuel Cost (petrol, 8,000 mi/yr) | £1,512Winner | £1,814 |
| Est. 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 | Petrol, Diesel |
| 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 |
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 3 Series: Typical Issues to Check
- •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
Enter a reg plate to see the exact MOT history and running costs for a specific Ford Fiesta.
Check a Specific BMW 3 Series
Enter a reg plate to see the exact MOT history and running costs for a specific BMW 3 Series.
Car history check for £4.99
Finance, stolen and write-off checks
Outstanding finance with the lender's details, stolen, write-off and keeper changes. One payment, no subscription.
Comparing checks first? See the cheapest car check in the UK and the best car check providers compared.
Ford Fiesta vs BMW 3 Series FAQ
Can I compare a Ford Fiesta and BMW 3 Series 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 3 Series?
The BMW 3 Series has the higher MOT pass rate, 83% 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 3 Series?
At 8,000 miles per year, the Ford Fiesta costs around £1,512 in fuel, while the BMW 3 Series costs around £1,814 (our estimates for petrol 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 3 Series?
The BMW 3 Series comes out slightly ahead with an 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
Related Comparisons
Other popular head-to-head comparisons
Compare Different Cars
Want to compare different cars? Enter any two reg plates for a personalised side-by-side comparison.
Compare Any Two Cars