Ford Fiesta ST vs Ford Fiesta RS: Comparing Ford’s performance cars

If you’re looking for a new or used Ford performance car, the Ford Fiesta ST or Ford Focus RS are the perfect choice. Choosing between these two hot hatches can be difficult to it’s important to understand the differences between the Ford Fiesta ST (2019) and the long-awaited Ford Focus RS (2021).

Both models are sportier and faster than your average Ford but they can still be used as family cars or for everyday commuting.

Click the links below to jump to the relevant section:

• Ford Fiesta ST vs Ford Focus RS: How do they compare?

Learn more about where the Fiesta ST and Focus RS came from and how they compare.

• What kind of engine does the Focus RS have vs Fiesta ST?

Find out more about the engine options you can expect to find when choosing between a Ford Focus RS and Fiesta ST.

• Interior features: A comparison

Learn more about the interior features of both cars and how they compare with each other.

• A comparison of exterior features

Find out more about the exterior features found on both models.

• Performance and drive: A comparison

Find out more about the performance and drive specifications available with the Fiesta ST and Focus RS.

Before you choose between a Ford Fiesta ST or Ford Focus RS trim level, let’s have a look at what each hot hatch is and where it came from.

Ford Focus RS

In the world of Ford sports cars, the letters ‘RS’ have come to symbolise speed, power and performance. The name is renowned for offering excellent road performance as well as road safety. The first Ford RS car was released in 1970 with a 1.6L engine and a cylinder head from a Ford Cosworth. The RS modelling and badge has been seen in Ford models such as the Sierra, Capri, Fiesta and Focus and is a huge part of Ford’s history.

Ford Fiesta ST

The ‘ST’ in Ford Fiesta ST stands for ‘sports technologies’ and is associated with extra body kit, alloy wheels and decals fit for the race track, all of which are included with Ford’s Fiesta ST. The ST is Ford’s latest offering in performance cars and whilst, the ST badge is most well-known for its place on the Ford Focus, it now also appears on the Ford Fiesta and Ford Mondeo too.

What kind of engine does the Ford Focus RS have vs the Ford Fiesta ST?

Both of these Ford 'supercars' come with the award-winning Ford EcoBoost engine.

There are a number of engine sizes to choose from, including a 1.5-litre and 2-litre petrol engine for both models and Cylinder Deactivation with the Fiesta ST to help save fuel. It’s recommended that you speak to your local dealership about the different engine options available when choosing your new car.

Marketed by Ford as 'the sporty hot hatch you need', here’s a run-through of the ST’s interior features:

• Electronic Stability Control
• 675-watt audio system
• Chunky sports steering wheel
• Supportive premium partial leather seats
• Sync 3 infotainment system with voice control
• Automatic Temperature Control
• Keyless system

What are the interior features of the Ford Focus RS?

Although a Focus RS model has been released as recently as 2021, it’s thought of among car enthusiasts as a timeless Ford sports car. The interior cabin is heavily based on the seventh-generation Ford Fiesta.

Interior features include:

• Updated Sync3 infotainment system just like the Focus ST but with extra additions
• Sporty Recaro seats
• Flat-bottom steering wheel
• Automatic Temperature Control

A comparison of exterior features

What are the exterior features of the Ford Fiesta ST?

While the Fiesta RS has more of Ford’s classic design features, the Fiesta ST boasts the brand’s modern sports technologies and styling.

Features include:

• Colour selections of Race Red, Frozen White, Moondust Silver, Agate Black and Performance Blue
• Performance Tuned Chassis
• Selectable drive modes including normal, sporty and track
• 18 inch 5-spoke alloy wheels
• LED or halogen headlights
• Sporty looking whale tail spoiler
• Front bumpers with grilles

What are the exterior features of the Ford Focus RS?

When buying a Ford Fiesta RS, you can expect to find:

• Sporty diffuser
• Lightweight wheels
• Aggressive front bumper with a grille for safer driving at speed
• WRC rally-style rear
• 18 inch rim wheels like the ST
• Features reminiscent of older type Ford RS models

Here’s a quick comparison of the performance and drive specifications for both cars:

The verdict

The Ford Fiesta ST and Ford Focus RS both provide an immaculate driving experience which makes them a great new car selection for anyone looking for a car with extra speed and a sporty look.

If you’re not sure which car is right for you, you can book a test drive today.

If you would like any further advice on Ford performance cars or would like to find out more about the new or used cars we have in stock, please contact your local dealership.