Fiat Panda 4x4 or Ford Fiesta Ecoboost?

I've picked two quite different cars to be the choice for my next. They were picked on the basis of driving fun and charisma - Fiat Panda 2013 4x4 or Ford Fiesta Zetec S 125bhp Ecoboost. I've driven them both but I can't make up my mind. Without considering running costs, which would you rather drive on a 400 mile non-stop journey on mixed roads in the UK, and why?

Asked on 2 March 2013 by AH, Henley on Thames

Answered by Honest John

Without a shadow of doubt, the Fiesta. This is a modern equivalent of a 1980s 'hot hatch'. Sweet engine. Excellent steering and handling. Test and video: www.honestjohn.co.uk/road-tests/ford/ford-fiesta-2.../

The Panda makes sense if you need four wheel drive because you get a lot of snow or you're into country pursuits or you live up a muddy or rocky track. But there's no point in buying it for 400-mile road trips.

Tags: performance high mileage 4wd

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