Ford Fiesta vs Fiat 500: Compare by Reg (2026)
Side-by-side comparison of the Ford Fiesta and Fiat 500, covering MOT pass rates, estimated running costs, typical issues, and overall reliability. Based on 3,059,190 MOT tests (DVSA MOT data for tests in 2024, retests included).
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Quick Verdict
The Fiat 500 comes out slightly ahead with a 79% MOT pass rate versus 78% for the Ford Fiesta. Both cars are competitive in this segment, but the Fiat 500 has a small edge on reliability. Consider test driving both before making your decision.
Ford Fiesta
78%
MOT pass rate
2,484,327 tests
Fiat 500
79%
MOT pass rate
574,863 tests
More reliableFull Comparison: Ford Fiesta vs Fiat 500
| Category | Ford Fiesta | Fiat 500 |
|---|---|---|
| MOT Pass Rate | 78% | 79%Winner |
| MOT Fail Rate | 22% | 21%Winner |
| vs All-Model Avg | -4 pts | -3 ptsWinner |
| Est. Fuel Cost (petrol, 8,000 mi/yr) | £1,514 | £1,514 |
| Est. Insurance Group | 6-15 | 6-15 |
| Est. Depreciation/yr | £1,200-£2,200 | £1,200-£2,200 |
| Engine Size | 1.3L | 1.4L |
| Fuel Type(s) | Petrol, Diesel | Diesel, Petrol |
| Segment | Small family car | Small family car |
| Avg Mileage | 66,345 mi | 54,579 miWinner |
| MOT Tests Analysed | 2,484,327 | 574,863 |
| Model Years | 33 years | 16 years |
| Best Year | 2021 (94%)Winner | 2021 (93%) |
| Worst Year | 1998 (65%) | 2007 (72%)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)
Fiat 500: 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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Find garages →Ford Fiesta vs Fiat 500 FAQ
Can I compare a Ford Fiesta and Fiat 500 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 Fiat 500?
The Fiat 500 has the higher MOT pass rate, 79% 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 Fiat 500?
At 8,000 miles per year, the Ford Fiesta costs around £1,514 in fuel, while the Fiat 500 costs around £1,514 (our estimates for petrol versions from average engine size, with fuel at GOV.UK average pump prices for the week of 5 October 2026). On these estimates they cost the same in fuel. Insurance, depreciation, and repair costs also factor into total running costs.
Should I buy a Ford Fiesta or Fiat 500?
The Fiat 500 comes out slightly ahead with a 79% MOT pass rate versus 78% for the Ford Fiesta. Both cars are competitive in this segment, but the Fiat 500 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
Fiat 500 Running Costs
Full breakdown of annual costs, reliability, and MOT data
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