First generation (1976–1983)[edit]

Main article: Ford Fiesta (first generation)

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First generation

Overview

Production 1976–1983

Spain: Almussafes, Valencia (Ford
Assembly
Valencia)
England: Dagenham, Greater

London (Ford Dagenham)
West Germany: Cologne, North Rhine-

Westphalia (CB&A)
West

Germany: Saarlouis, Saarland (SB&A)

Body and chassis

Body style 3-door hatchback

3-door panel van

Platform Ford B platform

Powertrain

Engine 957 cc (58.4 cu in) Kent/Valencia I4

1,117 cc (68.2 cu in) Kent/Valencia I4
 1,298 cc (79.2 cu in) Kent/Crossflow I4

1,597 cc (97.5 cu in) Kent/Crossflow I4

Transmission 4-speed BC4 manual

Dimensions

Wheelbase 2,286 mm (90.0 in)

Length 3,565 mm (140.4 in)

Width 1,567 mm (61.7 in)

Height 1,360 mm (54 in)

MK1 rear

The Fiesta was initially available in Europe with the Valencia 957 cc (58.4 cu in) I4 (high
compression and low compression options), and 1,117 cc (68.2 cu in) engines and in Base, Popular,
Popular Plus, L, GL (1978 onward), Ghia and S trim, as well as a van. The US Mark I Fiesta was
built in Cologne, West Germany, but to slightly different specifications; US models were Base,
Decor, Sport, and Ghia, the Ghia having the highest level of trim.[6] These trim levels changed very
little in the Fiesta's three-year run in the US, from 1978 to 1980. All US models featured the more
powerful 1,596 cc (97.4 cu in) engine, (which was the older "Crossflow" version of the Kent, rather
than the Valencia) fitted with a catalytic converter and air pump to satisfy strict Californian emission
regulations), energy-absorbing bumpers, side-marker lamps, round sealed-beam headlamps,
improved crash dynamics and fuel system integrity as well as optional air conditioning (a/c was not
available in Europe). In the US market, the Ford Escort replaced both the Fiesta and the
compact Pinto in 1981, competing with the Chevrolet Chevette and Chevrolet Cavalier.
A sporting derivative (1.3 L Supersport) was offered in Europe for the 1980 model year, using the
1.3 L (79 cu in) Kent Crossflow engine, effectively to test the market for the similar XR2 introduced a
year later, which featured a 1.6-litre version of the same engine. Black plastic trim was added to the
exterior and interior. The small square headlights were replaced with larger circular ones, with the
front indicators being moved into the bumper to accommodate the change.
For the 1979 auto show season, Ford in conjunction with its Ghia Operations in Turin, Italy,
produced the Ford Fiesta Tuareg off-road car. It was touted in press materials as "a concept vehicle
designed and equipped for practical, off-road recreational use."[7]
Minor revisions appeared across the range in late 1981, with larger bumpers to meet crash
worthiness regulations and other small improvements in a bid to maintain showroom appeal ahead
of the forthcoming second generation.

Second generation (1983–1989)