The Ford Fiesta Mk4, produced between 1995 and 2002, represented a significant step forward for Ford’s supermini. The 1.25i 16V variant, available with a five-speed manual transmission, was a mainstay of the range from 1996 to 1999. Positioned as an entry-level to mid-range offering, it aimed to provide affordable and economical transportation for a broad customer base. This three-door hatchback was a common sight on European roads, offering a practical and relatively modern package in the competitive small car segment. It was a key model in Ford’s strategy to modernize its European lineup and appeal to a younger demographic.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Fiesta |
| Generation | Fiesta IV (Mk4) 3 door |
| Type (Engine) | 1.25i 16V (75 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1996 year |
| End of production | 1999 year |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3/5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 7.1 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 33.1 US mpg |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 39.8 UK mpg |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 14.1 km/l |
| CO2 emissions | 166 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 170 km/h |
| Maximum speed | 105.63 mph |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.5 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 74.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 9.2 kg/Nm |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 108.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 75 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 60.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 110 Nm @ 4200 rpm |
| Torque | 81.13 lb.-ft. @ 4200 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | DHA, DHB, DHC, DHD, DHE, DHF, DHG |
| Engine displacement | 1242 cm3 |
| Engine displacement | 75.79 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 71.9 mm |
| Cylinder Bore | 2.83 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 76.5 mm |
| Piston Stroke | 3.01 in. |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt |
| Coolant | 6 l |
| Coolant | 6.34 US qt | 5.28 UK qt |
| Kerb Weight | 1010 kg |
| Kerb Weight | 2226.67 lbs. |
| Max. weight | 1450 kg |
| Max. weight | 3196.7 lbs. |
| Max load | 440 kg |
| Max load | 970.03 lbs. |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 250 l |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 8.83 cu. ft. |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 930 l |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 32.84 cu. ft. |
| Fuel tank capacity | 42 l |
| Fuel tank capacity | 11.1 US gal | 9.24 UK gal |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg |
| Max. roof load | 165.35 lbs. |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 900 kg |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1984.16 lbs. |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 310 kg |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 683.43 lbs. |
| Length | 3828 mm |
| Length | 150.71 in. |
| Width | 1634 mm |
| Width | 64.33 in. |
| Height | 1334 mm |
| Height | 52.52 in. |
| Wheelbase | 2446 mm |
| Wheelbase | 96.3 in. |
| Front track | 1429 mm |
| Front track | 56.26 in. |
| Rear (Back) track | 1384 mm |
| Rear (Back) track | 54.49 in. |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 9.9 m |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 32.48 ft. |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 185/55R14 |
| Wheel rims size | 14 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Fiesta variant is the 1.25-liter, inline-four cylinder engine, typically identified by engine codes DHA, DHB, DHC, DHD, DHE, DHF, or DHG. This engine features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design, though later versions incorporated a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) configuration for improved breathing. Fuel delivery is managed by a multi-port fuel injection system, providing a balance between efficiency and performance. The engine’s 16 valves contribute to its relatively smooth operation and respectable power output for its size. The five-speed manual transmission was the standard offering, providing drivers with good control over the engine’s powerband. The transmission itself is a conventional design, known for its durability and relatively simple maintenance requirements.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.25i 16V Fiesta offered a practical and economical driving experience. With 75 horsepower and 81 lb-ft of torque, acceleration was adequate for city driving and highway merging, though not particularly brisk. The 0-60 mph time of around 12.1 seconds reflects this. The five-speed gearbox allowed drivers to keep the engine in its optimal power range, but the engine lacked the low-end grunt of larger displacement engines. Compared to the higher-performance Fiesta variants, such as those equipped with the 1.6-liter engine, the 1.25i felt noticeably slower. However, it excelled in fuel economy, making it a popular choice for drivers prioritizing cost-effectiveness.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.25i 16V Fiesta typically came equipped with basic but functional features. Standard equipment included power steering, central locking, and an adjustable steering column. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a simple dashboard layout. Optional extras included air conditioning, electric windows, and a radio/cassette player. Trim levels varied slightly depending on the market, but generally, this variant represented a mid-range offering, bridging the gap between the base models and the more luxurious trims.
Chassis & Braking
The Fiesta Mk4 utilized a McPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provided a reasonable balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes were disc brakes, offering good stopping power, while the rear brakes were drum brakes, a cost-saving measure common in this class of vehicle. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was often included as standard equipment, enhancing safety. The steering was rack and pinion, providing precise and responsive handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.25i 16V Fiesta was generally well-received by critics as a practical and affordable supermini. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, reliability, and ease of driving. However, some critics noted its lack of outright performance compared to rivals. Compared to other trims in the Fiesta lineup, the 1.25i offered a more economical option, appealing to budget-conscious buyers. The larger 1.6-liter engine provided more power but at the expense of fuel economy. The diesel variants offered even better fuel economy but lacked the refinement of the gasoline engines.
Legacy
The 1.25i 16V Fiesta Mk4 remains a relatively common sight on roads today, testament to its durability and reliability. The engine itself is known to be robust, although regular maintenance is essential to prevent issues. Parts availability is generally good, making it a relatively affordable car to maintain. In the used car market, these Fiestas are often sought after as inexpensive and reliable transportation, particularly by first-time drivers or those seeking a practical city car. While not a performance icon, the 1.25i 16V Fiesta played a significant role in establishing the Mk4 Fiesta as a popular and well-regarded supermini.
