In the vibrant world of car enthusiasts, Dagen Keith stands out with his uniquely modified 2015 Fiesta Zetec S, lovingly built to reflect his passion for Fords and his dedication to the craft of car customization. With a journey deeply rooted in family traditions and a childhood surrounded by Fords, Dagen has turned his car into more than just a mode of transport—it’s a representation of his hard work, creativity, and individuality.
A Journey Inspired by Family
Growing up in a family of Ford lovers, Dagen’s early memories are filled with experiences of tinkering with cars, road trips, and garage days. Today, as a quantity surveyor, he balances his professional life with a relentless pursuit of automotive perfection. “Family’s always had Ford cars,” Dagen shares, “so all my memories of cars from childhood are in a Ford.”
Meet the Fiesta Zetec S
Dagen’s pride and joy, the Fiesta Zetec S, is more than a car; it’s a masterpiece of customization and attention to detail. While many may overlook the potential of a 1.0L EcoBoost engine, Dagen’s modifications have transformed this vehicle into a powerful and stylish contender in the Ford community.
Under the Hood
- Engine Mods: Miltek cat-back exhaust, full air intake system, and a Stage 1 tune from Laird Performance, pushing the car to 171 horsepower and 260Nm of torque.
- Performance Enhancements: Mk7 ST brakes for better stopping power and a full suite of Paintmodz covers to add a clean aesthetic to the engine bay.
Exterior Elegance
- Full splitter kit and rally flaps for a sporty look.
- Custom-painted Mondeo ST wheels, bringing an aggressive yet elegant stance.
A Goal of Perfection
Dagen’s original goal for the car was to create a standout show vehicle that also holds its own on the street. From attending Ford Fair as part of the top 50 in 2022 to participating in numerous events across Scotland and beyond, Dagen’s Fiesta has made a lasting impression wherever it goes.
Life as a Ford Enthusiast
For Dagen, weekends often revolve around cleaning and prepping his car for shows or traveling to events. As a proud member of the Ford Fair Select and a regular attendee at meets such as Ford Live and Crail Raceway’s Best of the Best, Dagen thrives on the connections he makes with fellow enthusiasts.
One of his most memorable experiences was being selected for the Ford Fair Select lineup—a prestigious recognition of his dedication and creativity.
Challenges and Triumphs
Owning and modifying an EcoBoost Fiesta comes with its own challenges. Dagen has had to navigate misconceptions about the car being “just for young boys in car parks.” Through his dedication to quality modifications and a focus on individuality, he’s built a car that commands respect and admiration.
His advice to the Ford community? “Build your car your way, and let everyone else say what they want. Just ignore them.”
What’s Next?
Dagen’s passion for his Fiesta Zetec S is far from over. With plans for future upgrades and a packed show schedule for 2025, the car’s journey is just beginning. As he says, “There’s always room for more.”
Stay updated with Dagen’s journey by following him on Instagram: @dagenkeith02.
Final Thoughts
Dagen’s story is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance in the automotive community. From his meticulous modifications to his active involvement in the Ford family, he’s an inspiration for anyone looking to build their dream car. His Fiesta Zetec S may be small in size, but it’s huge in personality and impact—a perfect reflection of Dagen’s journey and dedication to the craft.
Follow Dagen’s adventures and see his incredible build up close at his next show! 🚗✨