Mini Cooper vs Fiat 500: Which is Better? (2026)
Side-by-side comparison of the Mini Cooper and Fiat 500, covering MOT pass rates, running costs, common faults, and overall reliability. Based on 960,270 real MOT tests.
Quick Verdict
The Mini Cooper is the clear winner in this comparison, with a significantly higher MOT pass rate of 90% compared to 79% for the Fiat 500. It is more likely to pass its MOT without issues and should cost less in unexpected repairs. If reliability is your top priority, the Mini Cooper is the better choice.
Mini Cooper
90%
MOT pass rate
385,407 tests
More reliableFiat 500
79%
MOT pass rate
574,863 tests
Full Comparison: Mini Cooper vs Fiat 500
| Category | Mini Cooper | Fiat 500 |
|---|---|---|
| MOT Pass Rate | 90%Winner | 79% |
| MOT Fail Rate | 10%Winner | 21% |
| vs National Avg | +8 ptsWinner | -3 pts |
| Est. Fuel Cost (8,000 mi/yr) | £1,195 | £1,195 |
| Insurance Group | 10-20 | 6-15 |
| Est. Depreciation/yr | £1,200-£2,200 | £1,200-£2,200 |
| Engine Size | 1.6L | 1.4L |
| Fuel Type(s) | Petrol, Diesel | Petrol, Diesel |
| Segment | Small family car | Small family car |
| Avg Mileage | 67,213 mi | 54,579 miWinner |
| MOT Tests Analysed | 385,407 | 574,863 |
| Model Years | 23 years | 16 years |
| Best Year | 2022 (96%)Winner | 2021 (93%) |
| Worst Year | 2002 (65%) | 2007 (72%)Winner |
| Reliability Trend | Improving | Improving |
Common Problems Comparison
Mini Cooper Known Issues
- •DPF and emissions issues (diesel models)
- •Suspension wear on older models
- •Lighting defects (common on all cars)
Fiat 500 Known Issues
- •DPF and emissions issues (diesel models)
- •Suspension wear on older models
- •Lighting defects (common on all cars)
Check a Specific Mini Cooper
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Check a Specific Fiat 500
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Mini Cooper vs Fiat 500 FAQ
Which is more reliable, the Mini Cooper or Fiat 500?
Based on MOT data, the Mini Cooper is more reliable with a 90% pass rate, compared to 79% for the Fiat 500.
Which is cheaper to run?
At 8,000 miles per year, the Mini Cooper costs around £1,195 in fuel, while the Fiat 500 costs around £1,195. The Mini Cooper is cheaper on fuel. Insurance, depreciation, and repair costs also factor into total running costs.
Should I buy a Mini Cooper or Fiat 500?
The Mini Cooper is the clear winner in this comparison, with a significantly higher MOT pass rate of 90% compared to 79% for the Fiat 500. It is more likely to pass its MOT without issues and should cost less in unexpected repairs. If reliability is your top priority, the Mini Cooper is the better choice.
Mini Cooper Running Costs
Full breakdown of annual costs, reliability, and MOT data
Fiat 500 Running Costs
Full breakdown of annual costs, reliability, and MOT data
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