← All comparisons
Head-to-head
Ford Fiesta vs Vauxhall Corsa
Britain’s supermini heavyweights for first cars and city miles.
Specs & ownership
| Spec | Ford Fiesta | Vauxhall Corsa |
|---|---|---|
| Years | 2013–2017 | 2014–2019 |
| Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine (typical) | 1.0 EcoBoost | 1.2 Petrol |
| Power | 125 hp | 75 hp |
| Fuel | Petrol | Petrol |
| Economy | 47–62 mpg | 45–55 mpg |
| 0–60 | 8.5–12.5 sec 0–60 mph | 8.5–12.5 sec 0–60 mph |
| Boot | 285–395 litres | 285–395 litres |
| Insurance group | Typically groups 10–17 | Typically groups 12–28, depending on trim and power |
| Road tax (indicative) | Depends on first registration date, CO₂ band and fuel type — confirm on GOV.UK | Depends on first registration date, CO₂ band and fuel type — confirm on GOV.UK |
| Running costs / yr | ~£1,850–£2,622 / year | ~£2,058–£2,980 / year |
| Oil | 1.0 EcoBoost: usually 5W-20 Ford WSS-M2C948-B | 1.2 turbo often 0W-20 / 5W-30 meeting Vauxhall/Opel approval |
| Tyre pressure | Typically ~32–38 PSI cold (door sticker) | Typically ~30–36 PSI cold (door sticker) |
| ULEZ | Most petrols from ~2006 (Euro 4+) are ULEZ compliant — verify the plate | Most petrols from ~2006 (Euro 4+) are ULEZ compliant — verify the plate |
| Common fault #1 | Wet timing belt inspection and coolant contamination on EcoBoost engines | Timing chain stretch and rattle on cold starts |
| Best for | City drivers, new drivers and anyone who wants a small petrol hatch that is still fun to drive. | New drivers and short-trip urban use. |
Ford Fiesta — watch for
- Wet timing belt inspection and coolant contamination on EcoBoost engines
- Clutch and dual-mass flywheel wear on manuals
- Rear axle bush and suspension knock with mileage
Running costs ~£1,850–£2,622 / year
Vauxhall Corsa — watch for
- Timing chain stretch and rattle on cold starts
- Electric window regulator failures
- Front coil spring breakage
Running costs ~£2,058–£2,980 / year