Ford Fiesta vs Land Rover Discovery: Compare by Reg (2026)
Side-by-side comparison of the Ford Fiesta and Land Rover Discovery, covering MOT pass rates, estimated running costs, typical issues, and overall reliability. Based on 2,788,221 MOT tests (DVSA MOT data for tests in 2024, retests included).
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Quick Verdict
The Land Rover Discovery 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 Land Rover Discovery has a small edge on reliability. Consider test driving both before making your decision.
Ford Fiesta
78%
MOT pass rate
2,484,327 tests
Land Rover Discovery
83%
MOT pass rate
303,894 tests
More reliableFull Comparison: Ford Fiesta vs Land Rover Discovery
| Category | Ford Fiesta | Land Rover Discovery |
|---|---|---|
| MOT Pass Rate | 78% | 83%Winner |
| MOT Fail Rate | 22% | 17%Winner |
| vs All-Model Avg | -4 pts | +1 ptsWinner |
| Est. Fuel Cost (diesel, 8,000 mi/yr) | £1,318Winner | £1,908 |
| Est. Insurance Group | 6-15 | 30-42 |
| Est. Depreciation/yr | £1,200-£2,200 | £3,000-£5,000 |
| Engine Size | 1.3L | 2.7L |
| Fuel Type(s) | Petrol, Diesel | Diesel |
| Segment | Small family car | Large car |
| Avg Mileage | 66,345 miWinner | 129,448 mi |
| MOT Tests Analysed | 2,484,327 | 303,894 |
| Model Years | 33 years | 32 years |
| Best Year | 2021 (94%) | 2020 (94%) |
| Worst Year | 1998 (65%) | 1993 (74%)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)
Land Rover Discovery: 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)
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Ford Fiesta vs Land Rover Discovery FAQ
Can I compare a Ford Fiesta and Land Rover Discovery 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 Land Rover Discovery?
The Land Rover Discovery 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 Land Rover Discovery?
At 8,000 miles per year, the Ford Fiesta costs around £1,318 in fuel, while the Land Rover Discovery costs around £1,908 (our estimates for diesel 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 Land Rover Discovery?
The Land Rover Discovery 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 Land Rover Discovery 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
Land Rover Discovery Running Costs
Full breakdown of annual costs, reliability, and MOT data
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