Fordthorne Fiesta Platinum Club

Ensure your Fiesta stays on the road with the Fordthorne Fiesta Platinum Club; a community for those of us who aren’t ready to part ways with our beloved Ford Fiestas. We’ve established this club to unite enthusiasts and foster a shared passion for the Ford Fiesta.

As a member, you’ll enjoy exclusive access to our fantastic offers specially tailored for this group to ensure the longevity of your cherished Fiesta! Join us in celebrating the enduring love for the Fiesta.

Club Benefits | Exclusive Service Offers

5% OFF

Major Component Repairs (i.e. Engine and Gearbox)

10% OFF

Standard Repairs (excludes tyres and tracking)

15% OFF

Scheduled Serving

A Look Back on ‘The People’s Car’

The Ford Fiesta at Fordthorne in The Early Years

The History of The Iconic Ford Fiesta

MK1 (1976 to 1984)

The Ford Fiesta Mk1, the initial iteration of this supermini, represents the first generation of the model. Introduced in 1976, it marked Ford Europe’s first foray into producing a multinational front-wheel-drive vehicle. This model came in various forms, including the 3-door hatchback and the panel van.

Development of the Fiesta began under the project name “Bobcat,” distinct from the later rebadged Mercury variant of the Ford Pinto. Henry Ford II approved the project in September 1972. Speculation about the Bobcat project circulated in the motoring press from 1973, but Ford officially announced it as the Fiesta in December 1975. A prototype Fiesta debuted at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in June 1976 and participated in several rallies. Notably, the name Fiesta had been previously used by General Motors for the Oldsmobile Fiesta in the 1950s but was freely given to Ford for their new supermini. Despite Ford’s marketing team initially favouring the name Bravo, Henry Ford II ultimately chose the Fiesta name.

MK2 (1983 to 1989)

The Ford Fiesta Mk2, the second generation of Ford Europe’s Fiesta supermini, made its debut in 1983. This iteration received a subtle facelift and underwent re-engineering to accommodate a broader range of engines. Available in both 3-door hatchback and panel van configurations, it remained in production until 1989, when it was succeeded by the extensively updated Fiesta Mk3.

Introduced in late August 1983, the Ford Fiesta Mk2 showcased refreshed front-end styling and interior enhancements. Notable among the changes was the introduction of wraparound headlights, bringing a distinct visual update. To support the inclusion of both a five-speed transmission and the CVH engines, the front chassis structure underwent widening.

In 1984, two additional versions of the Mk2 Fiesta were unveiled. The upgraded XR2 model featured a 1.6-liter version of the CVH engine and a larger body kit, promising enhanced performance. Equipped with a 96 bhp (72 kW) engine akin to that found in the Ford Escort XR3, it came paired with a five-speed manual gearbox.

MK3 (1989 to 1996)

The Ford Fiesta MK3 holds the title for the longest production lifespan among all Fiesta variants to date. Its success peaked in the early 1990s, achieving record-breaking annual sales, surpassing 1 million units within the first two years of production. Built on a new platform, it abandoned the rear beam axle of its predecessor in favor of a semi-independent torsion beam arrangement. With its sleeker, more aerodynamic silhouette, the MK3 departed from the boxy design of the past, aligning with the contemporary design trends. Available in both 3-door and 5-door hatchback versions, it catered to a diverse range of consumer preferences and needs. Notably, the introduction of the 5-door derivative addressed a significant gap in the lineup, aligning it more closely with competitors such as the Fiat Uno, Peugeot 205, and Opel Corsa/Vauxhall Nova.

MK4 (1995 to 1998)

Launched in October 1995, the Fiesta Mark IV (internally known as BE91) quickly rose to prominence, becoming Britain’s top-selling car from 1995 to 1998. It eventually relinquished this title to the all-new Ford Focus, which replaced the Ford Escort.

The Mk4 boasted sleeker lines and a more rounded profile, in line with the design trends of the late 1990s. Under the hood, it introduced new Zetec SE engines while retaining options such as the 1.8-liter diesel and smaller Endura E engines, delivering improved performance and fuel efficiency. Unlike its predecessors, the Mk4 eschewed high-performance variants like the XR2i and RS Turbo/RS1800. Instead, it introduced the Zetec S model, offering a balanced blend of around 100bhp and sporty styling.

MK5 (1998 to 2002)

In 1999, the Fiesta underwent a facelift to adopt a “New Edge” appearance, inspired by the design elements of the Ford Focus. This update involved refreshing the front end, introducing new bumpers, and enhancing wheel designs. Known as the Mark V in the United Kingdom and elsewhere, this facelift modernized the Fiesta’s aesthetic.

Despite its design being over a decade old, the Fiesta maintained its position as Britain’s top-selling supermini even in 2001. The model received significant visual and mechanical updates to remain competitive. Interestingly, the three-door variant remained in production alongside the fifth-generation Fiesta from April to December 2002.

Mk6 (2001 to 2008)

On April 1, 2001, the highly anticipated sixth-generation Ford Fiesta was unveiled, with production commencing at the Almussafes Plant on April 29 of the same year. This iteration quickly became the best-selling Ford Fiesta generation to date. While most engines were carried over from the previous Fiesta, they were renamed “Duratec,” as the “Zetec” name was reserved exclusively for sportier models. Initially, trim levels included Finesse, LX, Zetec, and Ghia, with limited edition variants introduced shortly after. Notably, the fifth-generation Fiesta was the first to incorporate standard anti-lock braking systems and passenger airbags.

In November 2005, a revised version of the sixth-generation Fiesta was launched for the 2006 model year, referred to as the Mk 6 facelift (Mk6.5). The exterior received notable updates, including new bumpers, grille, headlamps, rear lamps, door mirrors, and thicker body side moldings. Selected models featured body-colored handles, mirrors, and side moldings. Additionally, new vibrant exterior colors such as ‘Tango Red,’ ‘Amethyst,’ ‘Sublime,’ and ‘Apple’ were introduced.

Mk7 (2008 to 2017)

The Ford Fiesta Mk7 represents the seventh generation of the Fiesta supermini. Its predecessor, the sixth generation Fiesta, made its debut as the Ford Verve concept car showcased at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September 2007. The Mk7 was introduced across continents including Europe, the Americas, Asia, Australasia, and Africa, aligning with Ford’s new “One Ford” strategy. This strategy aimed for global production and sales of single models to streamline efficiency and achieve economies of scale.

Equipped with Ford’s Convers+ menu system and steering wheel button controls, the Mk7 Fiesta aimed for user-friendly technology integration. Ford anticipated a high adoption rate, with over 85% of Fiesta orders expected to include this multifunction display. The model also introduced keyless entry with a ‘Ford Power’ starter button, a reach and rake adjustable steering wheel, electric power steering, and a USB port for portable music players. Additionally, the Fiesta featured Ford Easyfuel, a capless refuelling system introduced with the Ford Mondeo, and offered optional ‘ambient lighting’ to cast a soft red glow over the interior.

Mk8 (2017 to 2023)

On November 29, 2016, Ford unveiled the seventh-generation Fiesta (known as Mark VII, or Mark VIII in the UK) in Germany. This iteration boasted larger dimensions, offering increased roominess, enhanced safety features, improved efficiency, and a more upscale feel. The Fiesta lineup expanded to include the introduction of new variants: the crossover-styled Fiesta Active and the luxurious Fiesta Vignale.

In April 2019, Ford introduced a new limited-edition model to the Fiesta ST range called the “Performance Edition.” Despite its name, this variant did not receive any power upgrades compared to the standard ST model. Instead, it was based on the ST-3 model and featured various options typically offered at an additional cost, such as LED headlights, a B&O sound system, and the Performance Pack. The Performance Edition stood out with exclusive features like standard Deep Orange paint, a lowered and adjustable ride height, and lighter multispoke alloy wheels.

In September 2021, Ford announced the facelifted Ford Fiesta and Fiesta ST models, set for release at the beginning of 2022. These new models showcased a redesigned front bumper, visual enhancements, and the addition of a ‘Wrong Way Alert’ safety feature. Higher specification models also received upgrades such as increased torque, matrix LED headlights, and advanced technology including a fully digital instrument binnacle.

Unfortunately, production of the Ford Fiesta came to an end in 2022, with the final Fiesta rolling off the assembly line in July 2023.

Wishing a fond goodnight to the latest Fiesta model – However, it’s not a farewell to the enduring spirit of the Fiestas still on the road.  Let’s keep the legacy of the Fiesta on the roads together

The iconic Ford Fiesta has been a familiar sight on British roads for more than four decades. However, in late 2022, Ford declared that the time had come for the beloved people’s car to bid farewell, concluding its production in 2023.

We’d love to hear your personal story with your Ford Fiesta!

With each new model, the Fiesta introduced intuitive technologies and innovative design features, enhancing the daily lives of countless individuals. Throughout its numerous generations, the Fiesta has left an incredible mark, and nearly everyone has a personal story to share about this enduring vehicle. 

If you’d like to share, with the possibility of featuring on our page. Please tell us a bit about your history with your Fiesta and attach a photograph within our form below:

Fordthorne Fiesta Platinum Club alone not satisfying your passion for Ford?

Why not join the Welsh Ford community

New members are always welcome to join Welsh Ford and we have no requirements apart from a passion for the Ford brand. If your car is standard, highly modified or anywhere in between you are very welcome to enjoy this fantastic club. There is no compulsory fee to join or attend events and shows with the club, but we do offer a paid membership scheme which will give you access to fantastic benefits. Find out more about club membership on the membership page.