Ford Fiesta Fuel Tank Capacity: Complete Guide to Every Model (1976–2020)

Understanding the Ford Fiesta fuel tank capacity across all generations can be incredibly valuable—whether we are planning long journeys, comparing trims, or calculating real-world range. As one of Ford’s best-selling hatchbacks for over four decades, the Fiesta has been offered in dozens of configurations, and its tank size varies noticeably depending on engine, fuel type, transmission, and model year.

In this comprehensive guide, we break down all fuel tank capacities for the Ford Fiesta from 1976 to 2020, helping us identify the correct figure for any version—from the earliest Mk1 models to the final Mk8 generation.

Ford Fiesta Fuel Tank Capacity Overview

Across its production span, the Fiesta was manufactured in 77 different versions, offering a wide array of engines, transmissions, and body styles. The most common fuel tank capacities include:

• 34 litres
• 40 litres
• 42 litres
• 45 litres

These values differ based on engine type (Petrol or Diesel), model year, and performance level.

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Fuel Tank Capacity by Common Ford Fiesta Categories

Fuel Tank Capacity by Fuel Type

Petrol Engines

Most petrol-powered Fiestas are equipped with 40 L or 42 L tanks. Sportier models may receive the larger 45 L tank.

Diesel Engines

Diesel models typically come with either 40 L or 45 L tanks, depending on generation and performance output.

Fuel Tank Capacity by Generation (1976–2020)

Mk1 Ford Fiesta (1976–1983)

• Typical capacity: 40 L
• Smaller and lighter design led to modest tank size.

Mk2 Ford Fiesta (1983–1989)

• Most models: 40 L
• Early diesel variants: 42 L

Mk3 Ford Fiesta (1989–1997)

• Petrol engines: 40–42 L
• Diesel engines: 42–45 L

Mk4 Ford Fiesta (1995–2002)

• Standard models: 40 L
• Sport and diesel variants: Up to 45 L

Mk5 Ford Fiesta (2002–2008)

• 1.25 / 1.4 petrol: 40 L
• Diesel: 42–45 L depending on trim

Mk6 & Mk7 Ford Fiesta (2008–2017)

• 1.25 / 1.4 petrol: 40 L
• EcoBoost models: 40–42 L
• Diesel (TDCi): 42–45 L

Mk8 Ford Fiesta (2017–2020)

• Trend / Titanium / ST-Line petrol: 42 L
• Diesel models: 40–45 L
• High-performance Fiesta ST: 42 L

Ford Fiesta Fuel Tank Capacity by Horsepower Output

Because the Fiesta has been offered with power outputs from 45 hp to 195 hp, certain performance-focused versions receive larger tanks:

• 50–80 hp engines: 40 L
• 90–120 hp engines (common diesels): 42–45 L
• High-output petrol engines (ST models): 42 L

Tank Sizes for All Known Ford Fiesta Engine Types

Petrol Engines

• 60 hp – 100 hp → 40–42 L
• 120 hp and above → 42–45 L

Diesel Engines

• 75 hp – 95 hp → 40–42 L
• More powerful diesels → Up to 45 L

How Fuel Tank Size Affects Real-World Range

Litre capacity directly shapes expected mileage per fill-up. For example:

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• 40 L tank @ 45 mpg (UK) → approx. 396 miles
• 42 L tank @ 50 mpg (UK) → approx. 462 miles
• 45 L tank @ 55 mpg (UK) → approx. 544 miles

Diesel models commonly achieve the highest total range due to efficiency.

Quick Reference Chart: Ford Fiesta Fuel Tank Capacities

Ford Fiesta Fuel Tank Capacity by Transmission

Manual Transmission Models

• Typically 40–42 L
• Diesel manuals offer up to 45 L

Automatic Transmission Models

• Most models use 40–42 L
• Larger automatics on older generations occasionally received 45 L

Why Tank Size Differs Between Models

The fuel tank size varies mainly due to:

• Engine displacement
• Fuel type
• Chassis package
• Model performance class
• Space requirements for emissions equipment

Sport trims often receive slight modifications, including larger tanks for extended range.

Complete Ford Fiesta Fuel Tank Capacity Summary

The Ford Fiesta lineup features fuel tank capacities ranging from 34 L to 45 L, depending on the specific version. Most models fall within the 40–42 L range, while diesel and performance variants often receive 45 L tanks. Whether we’re comparing models or servicing a Fiesta, knowing the precise tank size ensures accurate planning for range, refuelling, and long-distance driving.

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