Ford Fiesta (95-99) - Review

Review by Parkers on
Last Updated: 01 September 2008
The extensively revised Fiesta Mk 4 put the fun back into functional during the mid-1990s. It was as good to drive as any rival supermini and still looks fairly modern, with curvy, youthful styling, though it’s less radical than its funky little sister, the Ka. Ford's bestseller got a fresh lease of life in the form of 16-valve Zetec engines, improved suspension and handling, good security measures and modern safety features. If you add in keen pricing, this late 90s Fiesta now looks like a very canny budget supermini choice.
3 out of 5

Other Ford reviews

3 out of 5

Safety

The Fiesta Mk 4 is one of the best-protected small cars around, with strong locks, a visible VIN plate and a first-class immobiliser. It also received three stars for the Euro NCAP crash test, and comes with a driver’s airbag, optional anti-lock brakes and effective seat belts. The Ghia models also come with an alarm as standard, for added security.

NCAP Test

Euro NCAP logo Euro NCAP

Provides motoring consumers with a realistic and independent assessment of the safety performance of some of the most popular cars sold in Europe.

Visit Euro NCAP for more info

  • Adult Occupant Rating

    3 out of 5

  • Pedestrian Test Rating

    1 out of 5
4 out of 5

Reliability

As the Fiesta is a first-car favourite, it can result in neglect - through inexperience and DIY ignorance - otherwise, everything under the Fiesta’s bonnet should run and run, though it does seem to be a little greedy on tyres. If you keep the Fiesta regularly maintained, it shouldn’t cause you too many problems, although there is a known issue with the waterproofing of the sills - so check these thoroughly to prevent unwanted water damage – and a few electrical niggles.

Car check problem points

Body

Poor door sill protection - check for dents or scratches.

Engine/Gearbox

Oil leaks.

Other

Some minor electrical problems.