One of Ford’s contentious vehicles, the Ford Fiesta RS, is thought to have undergone several unforeseen transformations during production. During its manufacture in 2004, this Hatchback—also known as a Rally Race Car—was considered a rival to the majority of sports vehicles. Unfortunately, the production of these cars has ceased, but due to their distinctive characteristics, they continue to be popular in people’s imaginations worldwide.
The wheel arches on the Ford Fiesta RS model were severely blistered and had enormous alloy wheels snuggled right up into them. The Fiesta’s designers believed that in order for the final product to earn a spot in the RallyeSport honors, it would need to match the concept’s supercharged aesthetic. Consequently, the Fiesta concept was so successful in the end that Ford noticed a decrease in sales for Fiesta ST.
However, without further ado, let’s get straight into some details on the famous Ford Fiesta RS and its reasons for such a huge success and failure at the same time.
Ford Fiesta RS: WRC Dimensions
The Fiesta RS sports a grille that mimics another vehicle, and a bright intercooler protrude from beneath a completely redesigned ground-hugging bumper. The rear of the RS will undoubtedly feature a diffuser and dual big-bore exhausts, which other drivers will grow accustomed to seeing. A sizable roof spoiler adds the finishing touch to Ford’s hyper Hatchback.
| Length | 172.8 in. |
| Overall Width Without Mirrors | 71.7 in. |
| Height | 58 in. |
| Wheel Base | 104.2 in. |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
| Curb Weight | 3434 lbs. |
| Tires Type | P235/35YR19 |
| Tires Size | 19 x 8 in. |
One of the first things you’ll probably notice when you approach the RS’s driver’s door is a pair of torso Recaro seats. The basic Fiesta’s dashboard is quite elegant, though not particularly thrilling; you can expect the RS to dramatically boost the stakes with more dials. It also has a sports gear stick with the RS logo and a distinctive appearance with flashes of RS blue.
| Front Head Room | 39.1 in. |
| Front Shoulder Room | 55.6 in. |
| Front Hip Room | 53.9 in. |
| Front Leg Room | 41.9 in. |
| Rear Head Room | 37.9 in. |
| Rear Shoulder Room | 52.6 in. |
| Rear Hip Room | 52.8 in. |
| Rear Leg Room | 33.4 in. |
Ford Fiesta RS: Color Options
Shades and Tints of green were one of the Ford Fiesta RS’s possibly most flexible color options. Other options included Moondust Silver, Radiant Red, Diamond White, Black, and Mercury Grey Metallic. The interior had two incredibly comfortable Recaro seats, a light grey leather finish on the gearknob, and a three-spoke steering wheel.
Ford Fiesta RS: Engine and Performance
| Base Engine Type | Gasoline Direct Injection |
| Base Engine Size | 2.3 L |
| Cylinders | 4 |
| Horsepower | 350 hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Torque | 350 lb. -ft @ 3,200 rpm |
| Valves | 8 |
| Drive Type | All Wheel Drive |
| Transmission | Manual w/OD |
Ford Fiesta RS: Transmission
As discussed, the Ford Fiesta RS has a manual distribution of the powershift in most of its trims. However, the RS category of models comes with either a 5-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic clutch. Nevertheless, even Fiesta RS faces specific issues in its power shift with continuous use of the same.
Ford Fiesta RS: AWD
The Ford Focus RS is the best WRC because of its exceptional and distinctive AWD drivetrain. This method enables active torque vectoring operations over the whole speed range of a vehicle by independently applying torque to a single or both wheels. It takes advantage of innovative gearing ratios that increase the torque going to the back wheels. The rear wheels move faster than the front when AWD is enabled.
Ford Fiesta RS: Gas Mileage
Talking about its results in gas mileage, it has consistently proven its worth. Usually, the average rate calculated was 4.5 gallons of fuel per 100 miles, an unexpectedly good mileage proportion. The car’s fuel capacity of 13.9 gallons is remarkable, and its overall mileage is 22 MPG. The EPA anticipates a rating of 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway.
| Fuel type | Regular unleaded |
| Fuel tank capacity | 13.9 gal. |
| Max Towing Capacity | 1000 lbs. |
| MPG | 22 mpg |
Ford Fiesta RS: Break Horsepower (BHP)
After mechanical losses from the motor are considered, the car’s performance is referred to as brake horsepower. Because of this, brake horsepower is never more significant than a vehicle’s horsepower. The Ford Fiesta RS has 250 horsepower. Compared to its grades, the Ford Fiesta ST has 180 horsepower, while the Turbo has 133 horsepower.
Ford Fiesta RS: Front Bumper
This Ford Fiesta RS frontal bumper is made with the highest production standards and an eye-catching appearance. Its primary purpose is to reduce the consequences of collisions, which is why it’s crucial always to have a flexible and sturdy bumper installed. Because of the installation of this device, which has a shape similar to a front driving splitter, you will not only be safer while driving your stylishly equipped vehicle but also enjoy it more.
The category of products composed of fiberglass includes bumpers. Significant toughness, flexibility, and damage resistance characterize this material. Additionally, it does not lose effectiveness when exposed to high temperatures or dampness. A new bumper can range from $100 to $1,000. The price of installing and repainting a new bumper can range from $200 to $600.
Ford Fiesta: Wing
The wings, frequently referred to as a spoiler, are an element of most rally cars like the Ford Fiesta RS and are utilized to reduce the passing air pressure. The car can maintain ground contact while turning and moving at extremely high speeds, thanks to this downforce. The majority of spoilers are constructed of plastic or even glass fiber.
Although the addition of spoilers causes the car to go faster, the horsepower is not increased as a result. The spoilers lie within a price range of $150 and $300. However, an additional cost maybe if you want to customize it to match your car’s exterior design.
Ford Fiesta RS: Issues
Few RS-related issues have been reported, and most owners appear content with their vehicles. However, there have been several cases involving an engine head gasket leak. The unmistakable indicator is a cloud of white smoke rising upon startup, and some owners have even required new engines.
Although most cars seem to run fine, especially while warm, the improper head gasket may have been installed originally in the factory, causing overheating problems. There were also “cheap” adaptive shocks, poor suspension, unpleasant seats, and HVAC system faults.
Ford Fiesta RS: Key Fob Battery
Two CR2032 batteries, as these are 3-volt lithium-ion batteries, are used to power most Ford key fobs. Almost all Ford automobiles, including Ford Fiesta RS key fobs, utilize the same CR2032 batteries, even though they can be rectangular, circular, or square. Although most automobile keys require CR2032 and CR2025 3-Volt batteries, not all key fobs can accommodate these batteries.
Batteries are used in cars differently. The owner’s manual will list the precise type. These batteries typically cost $10 or less. However, some fobs need two. Since it just takes a few seconds, battery expert shops and dealers frequently change the battery without charge.
Ford Fiesta RS: Turbo
It has a turbocharged 4-cylinder throughout crosswise front engine with a load torque of 184 Nm available at 2400 rpm and a maximum power output of 133 hp at 5500 rpm. A manual 5-speed transmission sends the engine’s maximum power output to the 14-inch front wheels. It has a wheelbase that is 96.3 inches and is said to weigh 2028 pounds.
Compared to the ST variant, it is considered a more adaptable Fiesta RS model. Other than that, it has numerous great qualities, like:
- autonomous front suspension
- the partially independent rear suspension
- anti-roll bar in 16 mm
- Torsion beams and trailing arms
- 8:3.1 compression ratio
Ford Fiesta RS: Review and Reliability
When it underwent crash testing, the basic Ford Fiesta, on which the RS is based, received the highest possible five-star rating. The RS features a more potent engine than the rest of the Fiesta lineup. Standard equipment includes traction control, electromechanical stability control, and anti-lock restraints.
Three years or 60,000 miles are Fiesta’s standard warranty limits. That roughly corresponds to the class average. Thus, before the younger breed of Fiesta vehicles entered the market, it received a rating of 4.5 out of 5.0 with all these specifications.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| energetic performance | tiny boot |
| worth the money | phony “Drift” mode |
| Entertainment and driving | poor riding quality |
| low CO2 emissions and good fuel efficiency | Safety Kits are not standard up-to-the-mark |
Ford Fiesta RS vs. Ford Fiesta ST
Both the Ford Fiesta RS and Ford Focus ST offer a superb driving experience, making them excellent choices for new cars for anyone searching for a vehicle with more speed and a sportier appearance. Both versions can still be utilized as family cars or for regular commuting despite being sportier and faster than your typical Ford.
The Fiesta ST showcases Ford’s cutting-edge sports innovations and style, while the Fiesta RS has a more significant proportion of the brand’s traditional design elements. Let’s take a closer look at each Hatchback before you decide between the Ford Fiesta ST and Ford Focus RS purchasing decisions.
| FORD FIESTA RS | FORD FIESTA ST |
|---|---|
| Flat-bottom steering wheel | Chunky sports steering wheel |
| 250bhp | 180bhp |
| 184Nm | 290Nm |
| Top speed: 155mph | Top speed: 139mph |
| 0-60mph: 5.5 seconds | 0-60mph: 6.5 seconds |
The standard Focus gets better suspension, greater power, and a 6-speed manual transmission with the ST. The bigger Turbocharged engine, AWD, and route suspension of the RS take these things even further. Thus, it depends on the type of usage and maintenance level you should follow before finally coming to a conclusion.
FAQs on Ford Fiesta RS
What is the price range for Ford Fiesta RS?
The prices range for Ford Fiesta RS can start from $9700 up to $10,000.
Is Ford Fiesta RS a reliable automobile?
It is a top family vehicle. And only those with a strong sense of taste in driving as well as a working grasp of technology are most preferred.
Is Ford Fiesta RS easy to maintain?
It should come as no surprise that the Fiesta is inexpensive to operate in terms of fuel, maintenance, and repairs.
Concluding Thoughts
The greatest in its class, this Ford Fiesta RS offers a pleasant experience of driving and the best overall performance. Although the version is the greatest, the mileage isn’t so great. As a result, it’s tough to look away from the outward appearance and specifications of the interior décor. So if you’re thinking about getting such an excellent hatchback for your big, fat family, you can depend on it.
