1980 Ford Fiesta Decor 1.6 modified to XR2 specs from North America

Summary:

The best engineered and most connected

Faults:

Well, since the car was modified (in 1991), the only things that have gone wrong were simple adjustments, which had to be made in order for it to run properly, such as re-jetting the carburetor. The worst thing that ever happened was when I replaced the lower ball joint and didn't seat the locking bolt properly. The joint let go when I was slowly pulling out of a gas station. It was an easy fix, though.

General Comments:

The Mk1 (1978-80) Ford Fiesta is a wonderfully engineered car, which is simple to work on. It has a bullet-proof 4 speed transmission and comes stock with an in-line 4 cylinder, all-iron, Formula Ford (Kent) racing engine. All 78-80 Fiestas have this engine! Once you get past the Fiestas problem areas (brakes and engine cooling), you'll have an indestructible and inexpensive little pocket rocket. There are a few companies which are still dedicated to selling Mk1 Fiesta parts. Parts are inexpensive and most are readily available.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know

Review Date: 10th July, 2003

22nd Jul 2004, 22:51

Could you tell me where to find such hi-performance parts thanks.

22nd Jun 2007, 21:05

6/22/07-

1978-1980 Mk1 Fiesta parts are becoming scarce in the USA. There are only a few places to buy new and used parts; B.A.T. (British American Transfer in Sarasota, FL.), Fiesta-Centre.co.uk in the UK, RockAuto.com, and eBay.com. Most performance parts are virtually impossible to find.

THIS JUST IN...

Ford will be reintroducing the Fiesta to the American Market in 2008. While it is nothing like its great grandfather, the Mk1, it is still a great economical rocket of a car.

Dean- US FIESTA ENTHUSIASTS MODERATOR

http://autos.groups.yahoo.com/group/US_Fiesta_Enthusiasts/

1980 Ford Fiesta 1..3 from North America

Summary:

A great, dependable, low budget car

Faults:

My fuel pump went bad.

My water pump went bad.

General Comments:

This is the first car I picked out for myself and it runs like a dream. I love my little red Fiesta.

I dont mind spending the money on parts for my car. I will spend whatever I need to keep my car running.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know

Review Date: 18th April, 2002

1st Aug 2009, 22:31

I had a 1978 Ford Fiesta that I wish I still had today. They are great basic cars that are economical with spirited performance.

1980 Ford Fiesta Rally car 1.6 CVH from a 84-89 XR2 from UK and Ireland

Summary:

An ideal base car for a young rally-driver on a budget

Faults:

An electric fuel pump which I fitted in the engine bay didn't work until I fitted it beside fuel tank under the floor. Always read instructions supplied with new products.

Engine mountings must be renewed to cope with the extra power of 1.6 CVH engine. XR2 gear-box mounting also recommended.

Constant Velocity Ball Joints in the drive shafts must be kept greased and covered with fresh rubber boots.

General Comments:

The Mk1 Ford Fiesta is an ideal first rally-car for anyone serious about progressing in front wheel drive rallying.

They handle superbly.

Parts are cheap.

The shell is extremely versatile accepting parts out of most Fords of its era and today.

At 20 years old the Mk1 Fiesta is rapidly replacing the Mk2 Escort as the car that the average motorist learnt to drive in. People have fond memories of these cars.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 26th April, 2001

28th Jan 2004, 09:43

The Mk1 engine is a X-flow not CVH which belongs to a Mk2 Fiesta.