The Ford Fiesta Mk7, produced from 2008 to 2012, represented a significant step forward for Ford’s supermini. The 1.4-liter (96 horsepower) automatic variant occupied a middle ground within the Mk7 Fiesta lineup, positioned as a more accessible and comfort-oriented option compared to the sportier Zetec models or the more economical Duratec 1.25. This version aimed to provide a balance of usability and affordability for buyers prioritizing ease of driving over outright performance. It was primarily sold in European markets, where automatic transmissions were less common in this segment, offering a convenient alternative for those seeking a hassle-free driving experience.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Fiesta |
| Generation | Fiesta VII (Mk7) 5 door |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 (96 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2008 |
| End of production | 2012 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.9 l/100 km (26.4 US mpg, 31.7 UK mpg, 11.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.1 l/100 km (46.1 US mpg, 55.4 UK mpg, 19.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.5 l/100 km (36.2 US mpg, 43.5 UK mpg, 15.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 154 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 13.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 13.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 13.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 166 km/h (103.15 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.6 kg/Hp, 86.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.7 kg/Nm, 114.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 96 Hp @ 5750 rpm |
| Torque | 128 Nm @ 4200 rpm (94.41 lb.-ft. @ 4200 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | RTJA, SPJA, RTJB, SPJC |
| Engine displacement | 1388 cm3 (84.7 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 77.2 mm (3.04 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 74.3 mm (2.93 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 8.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Single-point injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.8 l (4.02 US qt | 3.34 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt | 4.84 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1114 kg (2455.95 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1495 kg (3295.91 lbs.) |
| Max load | 381 kg (839.96 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 295 l (10.42 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 979 l (34.57 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 45 l (11.89 US gal | 9.9 UK gal) |
| Length | 3950 mm (155.51 in.) |
| Width | 1722 mm (67.8 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1973 mm (77.68 in.) |
| Height | 1481 mm (58.31 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2489 mm (97.99 in.) |
| Front track | 1493 mm (58.78 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1480 mm (58.27 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.2 m (33.46 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring, Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 175/65 R14 |
| Wheel rims size | 5.5J x 14 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Fiesta variant is the Duratec 1.4-liter inline-four cylinder engine, specifically identified by engine codes RTJA, SPJA, RTJB, or SPJC. This engine utilizes a single-point fuel injection system, a relatively simple setup compared to the direct injection systems becoming more prevalent at the time. The engine features an overhead camshaft (OHC) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder. The automatic transmission is a four-speed unit, designed for smooth operation rather than rapid acceleration. This transmission was a common choice for drivers prioritizing comfort and ease of use, particularly in urban environments. The engine’s 8.5:1 compression ratio was a compromise between efficiency and performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.4-liter automatic Fiesta offered a comfortable, if not particularly exhilarating, driving experience. With 96 horsepower and 128 Nm of torque, acceleration was modest, taking approximately 13.9 seconds to reach 62 mph. The four-speed automatic transmission, while smooth, lacked the responsiveness of a manual gearbox or a more modern automatic with additional gears. Gear ratios were optimized for fuel economy and drivability, resulting in a noticeable lack of urgency when attempting to overtake or climb hills. Compared to the 1.6-liter variants, the 1.4 automatic felt noticeably slower, but it offered better fuel economy and a more relaxed driving experience. The automatic transmission also eliminated the need for constant gear changes in city traffic, a significant benefit for many drivers.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.4 Automatic Fiesta typically came equipped with standard features such as power steering, central locking, electric front windows, and an ABS anti-lock braking system. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with a functional, if somewhat basic, dashboard layout. Optional extras included air conditioning, alloy wheels, and a CD player with auxiliary input. Higher trim levels, like the Style or Zetec, offered additional features such as upgraded interior trim, body-colored bumpers, and alloy wheels as standard or optional equipment. The specific equipment level varied depending on the market and the year of production.
Chassis & Braking
The Fiesta Mk7 utilized a McPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provided a good balance of ride comfort and handling. The front brakes were ventilated discs, offering adequate stopping power, while the rear brakes were drums, a cost-saving measure common in this segment. The electric power steering provided light and easy steering, making it ideal for urban driving. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.4-liter automatic Fiesta received mixed reviews. Critics generally praised its ease of use and fuel economy, but criticized its lack of performance. Compared to the manual transmission versions, the automatic suffered from slower acceleration and reduced fuel efficiency. However, it appealed to a specific segment of buyers who prioritized comfort and convenience over sporty driving dynamics. The 1.6-liter variants offered a more engaging driving experience, while the 1.25-liter models were even more focused on fuel economy. The 1.4 automatic found its niche as a practical and affordable option for everyday commuting.
Legacy
The Duratec 1.4-liter engine, while not known for its exceptional performance, proved to be relatively reliable. The four-speed automatic transmission, though dated by modern standards, also demonstrated reasonable durability. In the used car market, these Fiesta variants are often sought after by first-time drivers or those looking for an inexpensive and reliable city car. Maintenance costs are generally low, and parts availability is good. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for age-related issues, such as corrosion and wear and tear on suspension components. Overall, the 1.4-liter automatic Fiesta Mk7 remains a practical and affordable option for those seeking a no-frills supermini.
