Ford Fiesta vs Peugeot 208: Which is Better? (2026)
Side-by-side comparison of the Ford Fiesta and Peugeot 208, covering MOT pass rates, running costs, common faults, and overall reliability. Based on 2,794,851 real MOT tests.
Quick Verdict
The Peugeot 208 comes out slightly ahead with a 80% MOT pass rate versus 78% for the Ford Fiesta. Both cars are competitive in this segment, but the Peugeot 208 has a small edge on reliability. Consider test driving both before making your decision.
Ford Fiesta
78%
MOT pass rate
2,484,327 tests
Peugeot 208
80%
MOT pass rate
310,524 tests
More reliableFull Comparison: Ford Fiesta vs Peugeot 208
| Category | Ford Fiesta | Peugeot 208 |
|---|---|---|
| MOT Pass Rate | 78% | 80%Winner |
| MOT Fail Rate | 22% | 20%Winner |
| vs National Avg | -4 pts | -2 ptsWinner |
| Est. Fuel Cost (8,000 mi/yr) | £1,195 | £939Winner |
| Insurance Group | 6-15 | 6-15 |
| Est. Depreciation/yr | £1,200-£2,200 | £1,200-£2,200 |
| Engine Size | 1.3L | 1.3L |
| Fuel Type(s) | Petrol, Diesel | Diesel, Petrol |
| Segment | Small family car | Small family car |
| Avg Mileage | 66,345 mi | 46,310 miWinner |
| MOT Tests Analysed | 2,484,327 | 310,524 |
| Model Years | 33 years | 11 years |
| Best Year | 2021 (94%)Winner | 2021 (92%) |
| Worst Year | 1998 (65%) | 2012 (74%)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)
Peugeot 208 Known Issues
- •DPF and emissions issues (diesel models)
- •Suspension wear on older models
- •Lighting defects (common on all cars)
Check a Specific Ford Fiesta
Enter a reg plate to see the exact MOT history and running costs for a specific Ford Fiesta.
Check a Specific Peugeot 208
Enter a reg plate to see the exact MOT history and running costs for a specific Peugeot 208.
Save Money on Your Ford Fiesta
Exclusive deals and services picked for your Ford Fiesta
Compare car insurance
Could save you £200+ on insurance
Get quotes from top UK insurers in minutes
Compare quotes →Compare prices in 60 seconds
🚗Breakdown cover
Cover from under £4/month
RAC, AA, and Green Flag deals compared
Compare cover →Instant online quotes
✅Extended warranty
Plans from £15/month
Protect against unexpected repair bills
Get a quote →Cover starts immediately
🔧Book an MOT
Save up to 50% vs dealerships
Find the cheapest MOT near you
Find garages →Book online in minutes
Ford Fiesta vs Peugeot 208 FAQ
Which is more reliable, the Ford Fiesta or Peugeot 208?
Based on MOT data, the Peugeot 208 is more reliable with a 80% 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 Peugeot 208 costs around £939. The Peugeot 208 is cheaper on fuel. Insurance, depreciation, and repair costs also factor into total running costs.
Should I buy a Ford Fiesta or Peugeot 208?
The Peugeot 208 comes out slightly ahead with a 80% MOT pass rate versus 78% for the Ford Fiesta. Both cars are competitive in this segment, but the Peugeot 208 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
Peugeot 208 Running Costs
Full breakdown of annual costs, reliability, and MOT data
Related Comparisons
Other popular head-to-head comparisons
Compare Different Cars
Want to compare different cars? Enter any two reg plates for a personalised side-by-side comparison.
Compare Any Two Cars