1996 Ford Fiesta IV (Mk4) 5 door Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the Ford Fiesta IV ranges from 1033 kg to 1125 kg (2278 to 2480 lbs), while its maximum allowable weight is between 1450 kg and 1550 kg (3197 to 3417 lbs). This relatively light weight contributes to efficient fuel consumption and nimble handling characteristics. The maximum weight includes passengers and cargo, indicating the vehicle's load capacity limits for safe and optimal driving performance.

The 1996 Ford Fiesta IV offers a luggage capacity of 250 liters (8.83 cubic feet) with the rear seats in place, which is suitable for everyday shopping or small bags. When the rear seats are folded down, the capacity expands significantly to 930 liters (32.84 cubic feet), providing ample space to transport larger items or more cargo, enhancing the vehicle’s versatility for different needs.

The Ford Fiesta IV comes equipped with standard 14-inch rims, with tire sizes typically being 185/55R14, offering good grip and ride comfort. Some variants also use smaller 13-inch rims with 165/70R13 tires. These sizes balance performance and ride quality, ensuring the car handles effectively while maintaining durability and cost-effectiveness for replacement tires.

With a height of 1334 mm (52.5 inches), the Ford Fiesta IV's design strikes a balance between aerodynamic efficiency and interior comfort. The relatively low height helps reduce air resistance, improving fuel economy and high-speed stability. Simultaneously, it provides sufficient headroom inside for passengers, contributing to a comfortable cabin environment for a small hatchback.

Yes, the Ford Fiesta IV's compact dimensions ensure it fits comfortably within a standard single-car garage. Typical garage sizes range from about 2400 mm to 3000 mm (7.9 to 9.8 feet) in width and around 5400 mm (17.7 feet) in length, so with the Fiesta IV's length at 3828 mm (12.56 feet) and width at 1634 mm (5.36 feet), there’s ample space for easy parking, door opening, and some storage around it.

Compared to the Fiesta III, the Fiesta IV maintained a compact footprint but introduced modernized styling and improved interior space. While the Fiesta III was marginally smaller in some dimensions, the Fiesta IV's slight increase in length and width enhanced passenger comfort without sacrificing its renowned agility. Overall, the Mk4 offered a fresh, slightly roomier alternative while preserving the city-friendly size that made the Fiesta popular.

The Ford Fiesta IV sits competitively among compact hatchbacks of the late 1990s, such as the Volkswagen Polo, Opel Corsa, and Peugeot 206. Its length of around 3828 mm and luggage capacity up to 930 liters with seats folded are comparable to these models, which typically offer similar cargo versatility and urban-friendly dimensions. The Fiesta often stood out by delivering a good balance of compactness, driving ease, and practical interior space enhancements.

The Ford Fiesta IV has a recommended roof load capacity of 75 kg (165 lbs). This roof load rating is important because it specifies the maximum weight of roof racks, carriers, or other accessories that can be safely mounted without affecting vehicle stability or structural integrity. Exceeding this limit can compromise safety and handling, so it's crucial for owners to adhere to the specified roof load guidelines when transporting gear on the roof.

The hatchback design of the Ford Fiesta IV offers optimal versatility for urban drivers and small families. Its rear hatch door facilitates easy loading and unloading of cargo, and combined with foldable rear seats, it provides flexible space for groceries, strollers, or sports equipment. The compact external size lends itself to maneuvering through tight city streets or parking spots, while the interior space efficiently accommodates passengers and cargo without compromising driving ease.