ford Fiesta

Ford Fiesta from the USA: How to Safely Buy and Deliver to Ukraine with Acars

The Ford Fiesta is a compact car perfectly suited for urban conditions due to its fuel efficiency, maneuverability, and stylish design.

In Ukraine, this model is popular among those seeking reliable and affordable transportation. Purchasing a car from U.S. auctions through Acars is an opportunity to save money, acquire a vehicle in excellent condition, and avoid risks.

Why Is This Model So Popular?

The Ford Fiesta is a legendary car that first rolled off the assembly line in 1976 and quickly became one of Ford’s most successful models. It is valued for its compact size, low fuel consumption, and ease of handling, making it ideal for city driving.

In the U.S., the Ford Fiesta was sold in two periods: from 1978 to 1980 (first generation) and from 2011 to 2019 (sixth generation).

American versions stand out with their rich features and adaptation to local standards, making them an attractive choice for Ukrainian buyers looking for a budget-friendly car with good specifications.

Why Buying from U.S. Auctions Is a Smart Choice?

Purchasing a Ford Fiesta through U.S. auctions with Acars offers numerous advantages:

• Savings. At auctions like Copart, IAAI, and Acars, you can find cars at significantly lower prices—on average, 15–30% cheaper than in Ukraine or Europe.

• Transparent History. Acars provides a Carfax report detailing the actual mileage, accident history, and maintenance records. Most American cars were driven in favorable climates, without road salt, and with regular servicing.

• Rich Features. U.S. versions often come equipped with options like climate control, the SYNC multimedia system with a touchscreen, heated seats, leather interiors in Titanium trims, and a rearview camera.

• Condition. Cars from the U.S. were used on better-quality roads, preserving the body and suspension in better shape compared to European or Ukrainian counterparts.

• Low Duties. Compact cars face minimal import taxes when brought into Ukraine.

Model Evolution: Generations and Their Features

The Ford Fiesta has gone through seven generations, but U.S. auctions most commonly feature cars from the first and sixth generations. Let’s explore their features.

First Generation (1978–1980)

The first generation debuted in the U.S. in 1978 in response to demand for fuel-efficient cars following the 1970s oil crisis.

• Engine: 1.6L, 65 hp, 82 lb-ft of torque.

• Transmission: 4-speed manual.

• Dimensions: Length 3566 mm (up to 3736 mm with bumpers), width 1567 mm, height 1360 mm, weight 730–800 kg.

• Performance: 0–60 mph in 10–11 seconds, top speed around 100 mph.

• Features: Adapted to U.S. standards with larger bumpers and a catalytic converter.

Sixth Generation (2011–2019)

The Ford Fiesta returned to the U.S. in 2011 and was sold until 2019. This generation is more modern and popular at auctions.

• Engines: 1.6L Ti-VCT (120 hp), 1.6L EcoBoost for the ST version (197 hp), 1.0L EcoBoost (123–125 hp).

• Transmission: 5- or 6-speed manual, 6-speed PowerShift automatic.

• Dimensions: Sedan length 4409 mm, hatchback 4067 mm, width 1697–1722 mm, height 1473 mm, weight around 1170 kg.

• Performance: Base version 0–60 mph in 9.4–10.1 seconds, ST in 6.9 seconds.

• Features: Sporty ST variant, trims including S, SE, ST-Line, and Titanium.

At auctions, you can find both sedans (with a 362-liter trunk) and hatchbacks (up to 736 liters with folded seats). Acars will help you select the right option based on your preferences.

How Does the Car Perform on the Road?

The Ford Fiesta delights with its maneuverability and ease of handling. In the city, it’s perfect: its compact size simplifies parking, and the EcoBoost engine (in sixth-generation models) provides solid performance. Fuel consumption is around 4–5 liters per 100 km in mixed conditions, making it an economical choice for daily commutes.

On highways, base models may feel underpowered, but the sporty ST with 197 hp adds excitement. The suspension is comfortable but can feel stiff on Ukrainian roads, especially with mileage exceeding 100,000 miles. For the best driving experience, opt for models with a manual transmission, as the PowerShift automatic sometimes draws complaints.

How Does the U.S. Version Differ from the European One?

U.S. versions of the Ford Fiesta are tailored to local standards. In the first generation, they were equipped solely with a 1.6-liter engine featuring a catalytic converter, and the design included larger bumpers and round headlights.

In the sixth generation, the U.S. offered a sedan and a 5-door hatchback (the 3-door variant was exclusive to Europe). Trims like Titanium added a premium feel, with options such as a sunroof and the SYNC multimedia system available only in American versions.

Competitive Comparison

The Ford Fiesta competes with other compact cars. Here’s a look at some alternatives:

• Honda Fit
  • Power: 130 hp.
  • Fuel Consumption: 6.5 L/100 km.
  • 0–100 km/h: 9.1 seconds.
  • Features: Versatile interior, but poor sound insulation.

• Hyundai Accent
  • Power: 123 hp.
  • Fuel Consumption: 7 L/100 km.
  • 0–100 km/h: 9.6 seconds.
  • Features: Good warranty, but simpler interior materials.

• Kia Rio
  • Power: 120 hp.
  • Fuel Consumption: 5 L/100 km.
  • 0–100 km/h: 10.5 seconds.
  • Features: Reliable, but less agile.

• Toyota Yaris
  • Power: 106 hp.
  • Fuel Consumption: 6 L/100 km.
  • 0–100 km/h: 10.5 seconds.
  • Features: Dependable, but basic suspension.

The car stands out with its driving dynamics, high-quality interior finish, and fuel efficiency, especially in the 1.0 EcoBoost version.

Mileage and Condition at Auctions

At Copart, IAAI, and Acars auctions, Ford Fiesta models from 2011–2019 are most common. Mileage varies:

• 2011–2015: 80,000–150,000 miles.

• 2016–2019: 30,000–100,000 miles.

Condition significantly affects the choice. Cars with mileage under 60,000–70,000 miles are typically in excellent shape but cost more. If mileage exceeds 100,000 miles, inspect the suspension and engine.

Acars provides access to car catalogs and helps select a lot with the best price-to-quality ratio, ruling out problematic options like flood-damaged or patched-up vehicles. The most successful picks are 2014–2016 post-facelift models with a Run & Drive status.

Potential Issues

The Ford Fiesta is a reliable car, but there are a few points to watch for:

• PowerShift Automatic. In sixth-generation models, this transmission can jerk or fail—opt for a manual instead.

• 1.0 EcoBoost Engine. Fuel-efficient but requires high-quality oil and careful maintenance.

• Electronics. Older models (2011–2015) may experience glitches in the SYNC multimedia system.

• Suspension. On Ukrainian roads, it can wear out faster, especially after 100,000 miles.

Acars conducts a full pre-purchase inspection and checks the history via Carfax to eliminate hidden issues. We also recommend focusing on damage type: cosmetic flaws are preferable to mechanical ones.

Adapting to Ukrainian Conditions

The Ford Fiesta adapts well to Ukrainian conditions, but there are nuances:

• Ground Clearance. 120 mm works for city roads, but caution is needed on rural paths. Reinforcing the suspension is recommended for Ukrainian roads.

• Heating. U.S. versions often include heated seats, perfect for winters in Kyiv or Lviv.

• Fuel. Runs on A-95 gasoline, with 4–5 L/100 km consumption for savings. For extra efficiency, LPG can be installed on naturally aspirated versions.

• Lighting. Upgrading halogen headlights to LEDs improves visibility.

• Delivery. Acars arranges delivery to Kyiv, Odesa, Lviv, and other cities. Delivery takes 6–10 weeks, including transport from the auction to a U.S. port, sea shipping, and final delivery from a European port to Ukraine.

Notes:

• Headings: H1 for the main title, H2 for main sections, H3 for subsections under "Model Evolution."

• Lists: Bullet points used in "Why Buying…," "Competitive Comparison," "Mileage and Condition," "Potential Issues," and "Adapting…" sections.

• Double Paragraphs: Two empty lines added between H2 headings and the following text for clear separation.

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