The Fiesta will definitely be more entertaining to a traditional "enthusiast". The Mirage is roomier inside and will spank the Ford's MPG, without the niggling concern of turbo longevity. I haven't driven a 1.0t Fiesta, but would love to.
Depreciation: the Mirage is already confirmed as having higher than average % depreciation:
http://ecomodder.com/forum/showthrea...eap-30783.html. Good news if you like to wait & buy used cars, bad news if you buy new but don't keep your cars for a long time.
Timing chain: yes
Towing: I would.
Curtis makes a receiver for it.