Ford Fiesta vs Vauxhall Zafira: Compare by Reg (2026)
Side-by-side comparison of the Ford Fiesta and Vauxhall Zafira, covering MOT pass rates, estimated running costs, typical issues, and overall reliability. Based on 2,847,622 MOT tests (DVSA MOT data for tests in 2024, retests included).
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Quick Verdict
The Ford Fiesta edges ahead in this comparison with a 78% MOT pass rate versus 75% for the Vauxhall Zafira. The difference is modest, so both are reasonable choices. The Ford Fiesta has a slight advantage on MOT results, while the Vauxhall Zafira may offer other benefits depending on your priorities.
Ford Fiesta
78%
MOT pass rate
2,484,327 tests
More reliableVauxhall Zafira
75%
MOT pass rate
363,295 tests
Full Comparison: Ford Fiesta vs Vauxhall Zafira
| Category | Ford Fiesta | Vauxhall Zafira |
|---|---|---|
| MOT Pass Rate | 78%Winner | 75% |
| MOT Fail Rate | 22%Winner | 25% |
| vs All-Model Avg | -4 ptsWinner | -7 pts |
| Est. Fuel Cost (petrol, 8,000 mi/yr) | £1,512Winner | £1,814 |
| Est. Insurance Group | 6-15 | 10-20 |
| Est. Depreciation/yr | £1,200-£2,200 | £1,200-£2,200 |
| Engine Size | 1.3L | 1.7L |
| Fuel Type(s) | Petrol, Diesel | Diesel, Petrol, LPG |
| Segment | Small family car | Family car |
| Avg Mileage | 66,345 miWinner | 102,593 mi |
| MOT Tests Analysed | 2,484,327 | 363,295 |
| Model Years | 33 years | 20 years |
| Best Year | 2021 (94%)Winner | 2018 (86%) |
| Worst Year | 1998 (65%) | 1999 (65%) |
| 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)
Vauxhall Zafira: 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 Vauxhall Zafira FAQ
Can I compare a Ford Fiesta and Vauxhall Zafira 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 Vauxhall Zafira?
The Ford Fiesta has the higher MOT pass rate, 78% compared to 75% for the Vauxhall Zafira (DVSA MOT data for tests in 2024, retests included).
Which is cheaper to run, the Ford Fiesta or Vauxhall Zafira?
At 8,000 miles per year, the Ford Fiesta costs around £1,512 in fuel, while the Vauxhall Zafira costs around £1,814 (our estimates for petrol 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 Vauxhall Zafira?
The Ford Fiesta edges ahead in this comparison with a 78% MOT pass rate versus 75% for the Vauxhall Zafira. The difference is modest, so both are reasonable choices. The Ford Fiesta has a slight advantage on MOT results, while the Vauxhall Zafira may offer other benefits depending on your priorities.
Ford Fiesta Running Costs
Full breakdown of annual costs, reliability, and MOT data
Vauxhall Zafira Running Costs
Full breakdown of annual costs, reliability, and MOT data
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