Ford Fiesta vs Fiat 500: Which is Better? (2026)
Side-by-side comparison of the Ford Fiesta and Fiat 500, covering MOT pass rates, running costs, common faults, and overall reliability. Based on 3,059,190 real MOT tests.
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 National Avg | -4 pts | -3 ptsWinner |
| Est. Fuel Cost (8,000 mi/yr) | £1,195 | £1,195 |
| 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 | Petrol, Diesel |
| 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 |
Common Problems Comparison
Ford Fiesta Known Issues
- •DPF and emissions issues (diesel models)
- •Suspension wear on older models
- •Lighting defects (common on all cars)
Fiat 500 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 Fiat 500
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Ford Fiesta vs Fiat 500 FAQ
Which is more reliable, the Ford Fiesta or Fiat 500?
Based on MOT data, the Fiat 500 is more reliable with a 79% 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 Fiat 500 costs around £1,195. 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 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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