Ford Fiesta vs Nissan Micra: Which is Better? (2026)
Side-by-side comparison of the Ford Fiesta and Nissan Micra, covering MOT pass rates, running costs, common faults, and overall reliability. Based on 2,914,227 real MOT tests.
Quick Verdict
The Ford Fiesta edges ahead in this comparison with a 78% MOT pass rate versus 77% for the Nissan Micra. The difference is modest, so both are reasonable choices. The Ford Fiesta has a slight reliability advantage, while the Nissan Micra may offer other benefits depending on your priorities.
Ford Fiesta
78%
MOT pass rate
2,484,327 tests
More reliableNissan Micra
77%
MOT pass rate
429,900 tests
Full Comparison: Ford Fiesta vs Nissan Micra
| Category | Ford Fiesta | Nissan Micra |
|---|---|---|
| MOT Pass Rate | 78%Winner | 77% |
| MOT Fail Rate | 22%Winner | 23% |
| vs National Avg | -4 ptsWinner | -5 pts |
| Est. Fuel Cost (8,000 mi/yr) | £1,195 | £1,004Winner |
| Insurance Group | 6-15 | 6-15 |
| Est. Depreciation/yr | £1,200-£2,200 | £800-£1,500 |
| Engine Size | 1.3L | 1.1L |
| Fuel Type(s) | Petrol, Diesel | Petrol, Diesel |
| Segment | Small family car | City car |
| Avg Mileage | 66,345 mi | 62,415 miWinner |
| MOT Tests Analysed | 2,484,327 | 429,900 |
| Model Years | 33 years | 33 years |
| Best Year | 2021 (94%) | 2021 (94%) |
| Worst Year | 1998 (65%) | 1996 (67%)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)
Nissan Micra 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 Nissan Micra
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Ford Fiesta vs Nissan Micra FAQ
Which is more reliable, the Ford Fiesta or Nissan Micra?
Based on MOT data, the Ford Fiesta is more reliable with a 78% pass rate, compared to 77% for the Nissan Micra.
Which is cheaper to run?
At 8,000 miles per year, the Ford Fiesta costs around £1,195 in fuel, while the Nissan Micra costs around £1,004. The Nissan Micra is cheaper on fuel. Insurance, depreciation, and repair costs also factor into total running costs.
Should I buy a Ford Fiesta or Nissan Micra?
The Ford Fiesta edges ahead in this comparison with a 78% MOT pass rate versus 77% for the Nissan Micra. The difference is modest, so both are reasonable choices. The Ford Fiesta has a slight reliability advantage, while the Nissan Micra may offer other benefits depending on your priorities.
Ford Fiesta Running Costs
Full breakdown of annual costs, reliability, and MOT data
Nissan Micra Running Costs
Full breakdown of annual costs, reliability, and MOT data
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