Ford Fiesta/Mazda 121 Car Test

At the time of writing, the Fiesta 1.25LX's list price is a bit lower than the 121 ZX equivalent, but when you add the extras to the Ford to match the 121's standard kit, it's the Mazda that comes out cheaper. As well as this equipment (with the optional central locking pack and power steering) the Fiesta also boasts a handset control for its locks and some interior courtesy lighting that the 121 lacks. On the other hand, the Mazda comes with a useful front seat map pocket, painted bumpers (look good but less practical), a fully sliding sunroof and wider-section tyres. It also has a three- year/60,000-mile warranty - but see our "Costs in Service" panel. You can't buy a 1.4 Mazda at present, however, as this even more attractive power unit is a Ford prerogative. Actually, both these engines were developed with the help of Yamaha - the politics of the modern motor industry are as complex as the products!
Whichever you decide on, they are one of the main reasons for choosing this small car in preference to its rivals. Of course, there's still the old 1.3/60bhp Endura engine, as well as the 1.8 diesel, at lower asking prices; paying the extra is well worth it, however. This is the best small car engine since the Metro's, launched in 1990. Neither is the most economical, but in terms of smoothness and quiet main road cruising, both run rings round the abstemious 1.4-litre Saxo/Peugeot 106, for example. The 1.4 Fiesta's extra overtaking ability when the car is given its head isn't matched by lower speed urge, however. Despite identical gearing, the smaller engine pulls just as well in the gears, as our tables show. Like the Metro, the Fiesta/121 offers an automatic: option that, with long-legged gearing, makes: higher speed cruising even more relaxed.

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