They are two of the most iconic cars on the road, but for very different reasons. The Ford Fiesta and the Fiat 500. One is the most popular car in the UK, the other, one of the most iconic designs in the history of motoring.

Whether you are just starting out as a driver or looking for a quality hatchback, the Ford Fiesta and the Fiat 500 should be at the top of your shopping list. But which one is better? Let’s take a look at the two very different but very high quality cars.

Ford Fiesta

One of the most popular cars in the UK for over a decade, Ford Fiesta regularly reaches the top of the sales charts in both new and used. First produced back in 1976, the car is now in its seventh generation. You are likely to spot many Fiesta’s on the road, ranging across the last four generations. The sheer number of them on the road means they are popular on the used car market, while their frequency also means they don’t cost too much either.

What makes it great?

When you call a car an excellent all-rounder, you might be tempted to think that it means it doesn’t really excel in any area. But with the Fiesta, that’s not the case. It’s an excellent, simple drive with great handling and a sense of control that makes it ideal for new drivers or those who want a simple ride. Inside the latest versions, the interior space has been very well designed so even taller drivers can take advantage of the supermini. Add the large number of cars on the road and you’ll find it easy to get repairs, thanks to the demand for parts that has been created. There are a range of engine options to choose from, so you can go for economy or a little bit more power, especially if you opt for the ST sporty edition.

Fiat 500

The Fiat 500 is one of the most iconic cars in the history of motoring. Its bold looks made it a fashionable option from its first release back in 1957. The first generations were produced until 1975 with over 3.8 million units sold – huge numbers for that time. In 2007, fifty years after the first launch, Fiat launched a new 500 for the modern era, retaining that iconic look from the past.

What makes it so unique?

Whether you think the car is quirky or cool is a matter of personal taste, but you cannot deny that it has a lot more personality than almost every other car on the road. But it’s not just looks that make this car worthwhile. One of the key selling points is the high seating position, giving you an excellent vantage point of the road ahead. Why is that important? Well it gives you a sense of control and hazard perception that is not often found outside of crossover SUVs. It’s a great city car and the new electric version means you can combine style with eco-friendly substance.

The verdict

The Fiat 500 has the big selling point with its bold looks, but its still a fantastic car to drive beyond the superficial. The Ford Fiesta might be a bit more common on the road, but people love it for good reason – it’s a reliably good drive that won’t cause you any trouble. So which to go for? The Fiat 500 is slightly pricier, so it could just be down to budget. But whichever you choose, you’ll be getting a very super supermini.