When it comes to the hot hatch segment, few rivalries are as compelling as the one between the Peugeot 208 GTI and the Ford Fiesta ST. Both vehicles offer an exhilarating driving experience in a compact package, but each brings its own unique character to the table. This comparison will help you determine which hot hatch better suits your driving style and preferences.
Performance and driving dynamics
The hot hatch category has always been about delivering maximum fun in a practical package, and both these contenders excel in this department. For enthusiasts looking to explore more automotive content, websites like https://www.kammann-automobile.de/ offer extensive information on these and other performance vehicles, along with parts and accessories to enhance your driving experience.
Engine specifications and power delivery
The Ford Fiesta ST200 comes equipped with a 1,596cc turbocharged four-cylinder engine that delivers an impressive 218 horsepower at 6,000rpm when on overboost, alongside 236lb ft of torque at 3,000rpm. This power unit propels the Fiesta from 0-62mph in 6.7 seconds and on to a top speed of 143mph. The Mountune MP215 upgrade available for the ST200 further enhances its performance credentials, making it a formidable contender in the hot hatch arena.
In comparison, the Peugeot Sport 208 GTI features a slightly smaller 1,593cc turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 208 horsepower at 6,000rpm and 221lb ft of torque at 3,000rpm. Despite the modest power deficit, the 208 GTI manages a quicker 0-62mph time of 6.5 seconds and matches the Fiesta with a 143mph top speed. This superior acceleration can be attributed to its marginally lighter weight of 1,160kg compared to the Fiesta ST200 at 1,163kg.
Handling characteristics and chassis setup
Where these two hot hatches truly differentiate themselves is in their approach to handling. The Ford Fiesta ST embodies a fun, simple, and slightly naughty character that prioritises driver engagement. It feels alive and communicative, responding eagerly to driver inputs and encouraging spirited driving on twisty roads. This playful nature has contributed to its victory in numerous hot hatch group tests, outperforming rivals including the Mini Cooper S JCW, Renault Clio 200 Turbo, and Nissan Juke Nismo.
The Peugeot 208 GTI takes a more sophisticated approach to performance driving. Its chassis benefits from wider tracks and increased negative camber, providing enhanced stability during cornering. The addition of a limited-slip differential significantly improves traction when powering out of corners. The 208 GTI also boasts stronger brakes and superior body control compared to its Ford rival, making it feel more composed during aggressive driving manoeuvres.
Design and interior quality
Beyond performance metrics, the overall design and interior comfort play crucial roles in the ownership experience of these hot hatches.
Exterior styling and aerodynamics
The Peugeot 208 GTI showcases French flair with its distinctive styling cues. As a more recent design, being four years younger than the Fiesta platform, the 208 presents a more contemporary appearance. The GTI by Peugeot Sport version features additional aerodynamic elements that not only enhance its visual presence but also contribute to its performance capabilities. The overall aesthetic is sophisticated and mature, reflecting the car’s more refined character.
The Ford Fiesta ST200 offers a more muscular and aggressive stance. While based on an older platform, Ford has successfully evolved the Fiesta’s design to maintain its appeal in a competitive segment. The ST200 variant includes distinctive styling elements that set it apart from standard Fiesta models, emphasising its performance credentials without appearing overly flamboyant.
Cabin comfort and material quality
Interior comfort represents another area where these hot hatches express their different philosophies. The Peugeot 208 GTI offers a more premium cabin experience with higher quality materials and a more sophisticated design language. The attention to detail and overall fit and finish create an environment that feels special and justifies its higher price point of £23,550, or £24,250 with optional extras.
The Fiesta ST200, priced at £22,745, presents a more functional approach to interior design. While not matching the Peugeot’s premium feel, it offers a driver-focused cockpit with supportive seating and intuitive controls. The Fiesta prioritises functionality over luxury, aligning with its more accessible performance car ethos.
When considering value for money, the standard Fiesta ST with a Mountune upgrade presents a compelling alternative to the ST200, offering similar performance at a lower price point. Meanwhile, the Peugeot 208 GTI by PS justifies its premium through its more comprehensive approach to performance and refinement, with many considering it the best hot hatch available around the £22k mark.
Both vehicles offer impressive fuel economy given their performance credentials, with the Peugeot 208 GTI returning 52.3 MPG and producing 125g/km of CO2, while the Fiesta ST200 achieves 46.3 MPG with emissions of 140g/km. These figures make both cars relatively economical to run as daily drivers despite their sporting pretensions.
Comparing the Peugeot 208 GTI and Ford Fiesta ST: Which Hot Hatch is Right for You?
When it comes to the hot hatch segment, few rivalries are as compelling as the one between the Peugeot 208 GTI and the Ford Fiesta ST. Both vehicles offer an exhilarating driving experience in a compact package, but each brings its own unique character to the table. This comparison will help you determine which hot hatch better suits your driving style and preferences.
Performance and driving dynamics
The hot hatch category has always been about delivering maximum fun in a practical package, and both these contenders excel in this department. For enthusiasts looking to explore more automotive content, websites like https://www.kammann-automobile.de/ offer extensive information on these and other performance vehicles, along with parts and accessories to enhance your driving experience.
Engine specifications and power delivery
The Ford Fiesta ST200 comes equipped with a 1,596cc turbocharged four-cylinder engine that delivers an impressive 218 horsepower at 6,000rpm when on overboost, alongside 236lb ft of torque at 3,000rpm. This power unit propels the Fiesta from 0-62mph in 6.7 seconds and on to a top speed of 143mph. The Mountune MP215 upgrade available for the ST200 further enhances its performance credentials, making it a formidable contender in the hot hatch arena.
In comparison, the Peugeot Sport 208 GTI features a slightly smaller 1,593cc turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 208 horsepower at 6,000rpm and 221lb ft of torque at 3,000rpm. Despite the modest power deficit, the 208 GTI manages a quicker 0-62mph time of 6.5 seconds and matches the Fiesta with a 143mph top speed. This superior acceleration can be attributed to its marginally lighter weight of 1,160kg compared to the Fiesta ST200 at 1,163kg.
Handling characteristics and chassis setup
Where these two hot hatches truly differentiate themselves is in their approach to handling. The Ford Fiesta ST embodies a fun, simple, and slightly naughty character that prioritises driver engagement. It feels alive and communicative, responding eagerly to driver inputs and encouraging spirited driving on twisty roads. This playful nature has contributed to its victory in numerous hot hatch group tests, outperforming rivals including the Mini Cooper S JCW, Renault Clio 200 Turbo, and Nissan Juke Nismo.
The Peugeot 208 GTI takes a more sophisticated approach to performance driving. Its chassis benefits from wider tracks and increased negative camber, providing enhanced stability during cornering. The addition of a limited-slip differential significantly improves traction when powering out of corners. The 208 GTI also boasts stronger brakes and superior body control compared to its Ford rival, making it feel more composed during aggressive driving manoeuvres.
Design and interior quality
Beyond performance metrics, the overall design and interior comfort play crucial roles in the ownership experience of these hot hatches.
Exterior styling and aerodynamics
The Peugeot 208 GTI showcases French flair with its distinctive styling cues. As a more recent design, being four years younger than the Fiesta platform, the 208 presents a more contemporary appearance. The GTI by Peugeot Sport version features additional aerodynamic elements that not only enhance its visual presence but also contribute to its performance capabilities. The overall aesthetic is sophisticated and mature, reflecting the car’s more refined character.
The Ford Fiesta ST200 offers a more muscular and aggressive stance. While based on an older platform, Ford has successfully evolved the Fiesta’s design to maintain its appeal in a competitive segment. The ST200 variant includes distinctive styling elements that set it apart from standard Fiesta models, emphasising its performance credentials without appearing overly flamboyant.
Cabin comfort and material quality
Interior comfort represents another area where these hot hatches express their different philosophies. The Peugeot 208 GTI offers a more premium cabin experience with higher quality materials and a more sophisticated design language. The attention to detail and overall fit and finish create an environment that feels special and justifies its higher price point of £23,550, or £24,250 with optional extras.
The Fiesta ST200, priced at £22,745, presents a more functional approach to interior design. While not matching the Peugeot’s premium feel, it offers a driver-focused cockpit with supportive seating and intuitive controls. The Fiesta prioritises functionality over luxury, aligning with its more accessible performance car ethos.
When considering value for money, the standard Fiesta ST with a Mountune upgrade presents a compelling alternative to the ST200, offering similar performance at a lower price point. Meanwhile, the Peugeot 208 GTI by PS justifies its premium through its more comprehensive approach to performance and refinement, with many considering it the best hot hatch available around the £22k mark.
Both vehicles offer impressive fuel economy given their performance credentials, with the Peugeot 208 GTI returning 52.3 MPG and producing 125g/km of CO2, while the Fiesta ST200 achieves 46.3 MPG with emissions of 140g/km. These figures make both cars relatively economical to run as daily drivers despite their sporting pretensions.
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