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Happy 40th Birthday Ford Fiesta
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Happy 40th Birthday Ford Fiesta
Lucy Wyndham
20 December 2017
The Ford Fiesta is an iconic British classic, and it’s been 40 years since it first hit the dealerships in the UK. It became Great Britain’s most popular car, loved by 17-year-old new drivers, parents and city-dwellers. The car was small, economical and inexpensive in comparison to many of the other cars on the market at the time.
The Ford Fiesta MK1 - 1977 - 1983
There were a few
vehicles on the Supermini market at the time, but this was the first time that Ford had dipped its toes in. Sales were good, and they released a supersport version in 1980. It had a Kent Crossfire Engine, nippy at 1.3L. It also came with round headlights, instead of the original square ones. The indicators were shifted into the bumper. The supersport version proved to be popular, particularly with the younger market, so a year later they released the iconic Fiesta XR2.
The XR2 model had a bigger engine, beautiful pepperpot alloy wheels and stiffer suspension. It was definitely a sporty little number. The car always held its value well in
the industry's car appraisal guides, and became more of a collectors
model for older generations. By 1981, Ford had sold over 2 million Fiestas.
The Ford Fiesta MK2 - 1983 - 1989
The MK2 gave the Fiesta a mini-
makeover to modernise the design and make it more aerodynamic. The biggest change was the
option of a diesel engine, more economical for longer journeys. Ford still offered a hot version of the XR2 with a 1.6L CVH. It was immensely popular the younger market (particularly men). In fact it was somewhat of a status symbol for that generation.
The Ford Fiesta MK 3 - 1989 - 1993
The MK3 appealed more to the small family market, as finally Ford introduced a 5-door model of this fast growing classic. Instead of the solid rear axle, this version of the car had torsion beam rear suspension. It made a difference to how the car handled. The XR2i hot version was also introduced, but perhaps not as popular as the previous MK2 version.
The Modern Day Ford Fiesta
The Fiesta MK7 remains to be the UK's most popular car. Sales are double that of it’s nearest rival. The designs of the car are simple, stylish and available in a good range of colors and paint finishes. There’s are still hot versions produced, but there is a Fiesta aimed at everyone, with optional modifications to suit different lifestyles. There is a reason why the Fiesta has been a bestselling car, it is well-priced, good to drive and economical.
A very happy 40th birthday, here’s to another 40 years!
1991 Ford Fiesta RS Turbo Radiant Red