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R9973A
Car test
T TESATE UPD
See also R9683
October 1999
Ford Fiesta Zetec S
What’s new?
Facelift (but not of much significance) to mainstream models. 1.6-litre “warm hatch” added at top of range.
R
EMEMBER THE XR2? IT WAS THE FIESTA that proved a great hit with boy-racers everywhere – unfortunately, some were on the wrong side of the law! In the end, this and other “hot-hatches” were so unfavourably insurance-rated that the market collapsed. Yet the yearning for a smaller car that’s a bit of a sport has remained and we can now see this sector re-emerging, in a modest way. So it’s not surprising to find Ford adding a Fiesta to its 2000 model year line-up that fits the bill. The Puma has demonstrated emphatically that Ford has rediscovered the black art of chassis engineering, not to mention the Fiesta’s already-established reputation over the last four years, in this regard. It seems to us, therefore, that this Zetec S Fiesta is pitching to be the ideal link between these two
stablemates; more practical than the Puma in domestic use, but even more fun to drive than a 1.25LX. The engine is from the Focus – 1.6 litre/103bhp, with a nice flat torque curve from 2000rpm upwards, peaking at twice that speed. The suspension is stiffened and lowered, 50-Series radials on alloys are standard, and both inside and out, all the affectations of sportiness are on view. So is air conditioning, but in other respects, the standard equipment inside isn’t particularly lavish; there are no electric mirrors or wheel height or seat lumbar adjustments, for example. Neither is a five-door version on offer, and with simple fixed cushions and tilting backrests, this three-door Fiesta’s practicality is undermined to some extent when you have the family in mind. The boot space is reasonable, even if its painted sill protrudes by several centimetres. “But what’s it like to drive?” you’re asking. Within the limitation of a 103bhp engine, Ford has tried hard to confer all the right sporty noises and steering responses. In the latter instance, results on winding cross-country roads are impressive and there’s real agility and little roll, while the ride, though firm, neither degenerates into harshness nor induces bump-steer. The engine isn’t as low-speed-smooth as the smaller 1.25 or 1.4 versions, however, and the sporty snarl isn’t as mellifluous as an Alfa’s in full flight; it also remains a
2 shade too apparent when main road cruising; indeed, we prefer the feel and sound it makes in the Focus. A shorter-throw gearchange keeps you in touch with the works but, like the steering, it may feel a shade too heavy for some women drivers. No, the S is no threat to the Puma in terms of ultimate driver-appeal and before paying extra, ordinary Fiesta buyers should recognise that there are some losses as well as gains, particularly in terms of comfort and refinement, compared with say, a 1.4 Ghia five-door. We don’t know the price of this Zetec S at the time of writing, but it certainly shouldn’t cost more than that version. The rest of the Fiesta range has been freshened for the 2000 model year, but only in terms of frontal styling and
interior trim. The opportunity has been taken to adopt Focus-style front seats with stowage pouches, but they still lack necessary lumbar adjusters. The height adjuster acts only on the cushion, so as you (mechanically) crank it lower, a gap opens up between cushion and backrest – the earlier Ghia electric arrangement was superior. We dislike the scattered tell-tales which are dimly illuminated, integral with their respective minor controls, a continuous-sweep-only rear wiper, and having to take the key to the tailgate every time – these are missed opportunities for improvement. VERDICT Having moaned about the details, we still think the Fiesta is a great small hatchback, amazingly
FACTS AND FIGURES BODY Style Length x width Trim level
three-door hatchback 383 x 164cm (mirrors folded) one only
ENGINE Type and size Power Torque Valves Fuel/ignition
1596cc; transverse four in line 103bhp at 6000rpm 107 lb ft at 4000rpm belt-driven DOHC; 16 valves multi-point petrol injection; distributorless spark timing with knock sensor
TRANSMISSION Type Mph per 1000rpm
five-speed manual, front-wheel drive 20.3 in top gear
CHASSIS Suspension and steering Wheels Brakes
same as other versions, but lowered and stiffened with thicker anti-roll bars 6in alloy with 195/50R15H tyres larger ventilated discs front, drums rear with vacuum servo and electronic anti-lock control
© The Automobile Association 1999