Ford Fiesta vs Citroen C4: Which is Better? (2026)
Side-by-side comparison of the Ford Fiesta and Citroen C4, covering MOT pass rates, running costs, common faults, and overall reliability. Based on 2,724,496 real MOT tests.
Quick Verdict
The Ford Fiesta edges ahead in this comparison with a 78% MOT pass rate versus 74% for the Citroen C4. The difference is modest, so both are reasonable choices. The Ford Fiesta has a slight reliability advantage, while the Citroen C4 may offer other benefits depending on your priorities.
Ford Fiesta
78%
MOT pass rate
2,484,327 tests
More reliableCitroen C4
74%
MOT pass rate
240,169 tests
Full Comparison: Ford Fiesta vs Citroen C4
| Category | Ford Fiesta | Citroen C4 |
|---|---|---|
| MOT Pass Rate | 78%Winner | 74% |
| MOT Fail Rate | 22%Winner | 26% |
| vs National Avg | -4 ptsWinner | -8 pts |
| Est. Fuel Cost (8,000 mi/yr) | £1,195Winner | £1,434 |
| Insurance Group | 6-15 | 10-20 |
| Est. Depreciation/yr | £1,200-£2,200 | £1,200-£2,200 |
| Engine Size | 1.3L | 1.7L |
| Fuel Type(s) | Petrol, Diesel | Petrol, Diesel |
| Segment | Small family car | Family car |
| Avg Mileage | 66,345 miWinner | 81,108 mi |
| MOT Tests Analysed | 2,484,327 | 240,169 |
| Model Years | 33 years | 18 years |
| Best Year | 2021 (94%)Winner | 2021 (90%) |
| Worst Year | 1998 (65%)Winner | 2004 (62%) |
| 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)
Citroen C4 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 Citroen C4
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Ford Fiesta vs Citroen C4 FAQ
Which is more reliable, the Ford Fiesta or Citroen C4?
Based on MOT data, the Ford Fiesta is more reliable with a 78% pass rate, compared to 74% for the Citroen C4.
Which is cheaper to run?
At 8,000 miles per year, the Ford Fiesta costs around £1,195 in fuel, while the Citroen C4 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 Citroen C4?
The Ford Fiesta edges ahead in this comparison with a 78% MOT pass rate versus 74% for the Citroen C4. The difference is modest, so both are reasonable choices. The Ford Fiesta has a slight reliability advantage, while the Citroen C4 may offer other benefits depending on your priorities.
Ford Fiesta Running Costs
Full breakdown of annual costs, reliability, and MOT data
Citroen C4 Running Costs
Full breakdown of annual costs, reliability, and MOT data
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