Ford Fiesta vs Nissan Note: Compare by Reg (2026)
Side-by-side comparison of the Ford Fiesta and Nissan Note, covering MOT pass rates, estimated running costs, typical issues, and overall reliability. Based on 2,740,800 MOT tests (DVSA MOT data for tests in 2024, retests included).
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Quick Verdict
This is a very close comparison. The Ford Fiesta and Nissan Note both have a 78% MOT pass rate, so they are evenly matched on MOT results. Your decision should come down to the condition of the actual car, running costs, and which feels better to drive.
Ford Fiesta
78%
MOT pass rate
2,484,327 tests
Nissan Note
78%
MOT pass rate
256,473 tests
Full Comparison: Ford Fiesta vs Nissan Note
| Category | Ford Fiesta | Nissan Note |
|---|---|---|
| MOT Pass Rate | 78% | 78% |
| MOT Fail Rate | 22% | 22% |
| vs All-Model Avg | -4 pts | -4 pts |
| Est. Fuel Cost (petrol, 8,000 mi/yr) | £1,512 | £1,512 |
| Est. Insurance Group | 6-15 | 10-20 |
| 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 miWinner | 71,905 mi |
| MOT Tests Analysed | 2,484,327 | 256,473 |
| Model Years | 33 years | 14 years |
| Best Year | 2021 (94%)Winner | 2016 (89%) |
| Worst Year | 1998 (65%) | 2006 (70%)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)
Nissan Note: 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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Ford Fiesta vs Nissan Note FAQ
Can I compare a Ford Fiesta and Nissan Note 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 Nissan Note?
They are level on MOT data: the Ford Fiesta and Nissan Note both have a 78% MOT pass rate (DVSA MOT data for tests in 2024, retests included).
Which is cheaper to run, the Ford Fiesta or Nissan Note?
At 8,000 miles per year, the Ford Fiesta costs around £1,512 in fuel, while the Nissan Note costs around £1,512 (our estimates for petrol versions from average engine size, with fuel at GOV.UK average pump prices for the week of 19 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 Nissan Note?
This is a very close comparison. The Ford Fiesta and Nissan Note both have a 78% MOT pass rate, so they are evenly matched on MOT results. Your decision should come down to the condition of the actual car, running costs, and which feels better to drive.
Ford Fiesta Running Costs
Full breakdown of annual costs, reliability, and MOT data
Nissan Note Running Costs
Full breakdown of annual costs, reliability, and MOT data
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