Overview & Reviews
With small Japanese cars dominating the economy car segment by the late '70s, Ford decided to bring something to the table that was more competitive than the antiquated, outgoing Pinto. The result was the subcompact Ford Escort. The vehicle debuted in 1981 as a two-door hatchback or four-door wagon and featured front-wheel drive, an overhead cam four-cylinder engine, a fully independent suspension and rack and pinion steering. On paper, it looked like Ford had a winner. But in reality there were early problems that made a rash of recalls necessary, and the vehicle's longevity was questionable.
But despite the teething problems, the Ford Escort went on to become the top-selling car in America for many consecutive years. Broader appeal for Ford's small import fighter appeared in the mid-'80s via the introduction of a four-door hatchback and the sporty GT.
By the late '80s, the Ford Escort had become a solid little economy car, with build quality and reliability approaching respectable, if not Japanese manufacturer's, levels. By 1991, Ford's partnership with Mazda started to bear fruit in the form of the Escort GT, which was powered by a spirited dual-overhead-cam, four-cylinder engine borrowed from Mazda. A formal sedan debuted around this time, as did a four-speed automatic (which replaced the old three-speed unit). By the time the year 2000 came around, the Escort was being phased out by Ford's new Focus. With a decidedly edgy, European-flavored personality, the Focus offered much more in terms of personality and driving fun.
Most shoppers interested in a used Ford Escort will find themselves looking at the fourth and last generation. This one debuted in 1997 with a more rounded body style and a more refined 110-horsepower 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine. Transmission choices were once again a five-speed manual and a four-speed automatic. The next year brought the sporty ZX2 two-door coupe, which was essentially the Escort GT's overdue replacement. With 130 hp, the ZX2 was relatively quick, running zero to 60 mph in around 8 seconds.
When Ford phased in the Escort's replacement, the Focus, for 2000, the Escort family was thinned out by dropping the wagon, leaving just the sedan and ZX2 sport coupe. By 2002, only the ZX2 remained, and would soldier on for one more year.
Consumer commentary posted on Edmunds.com about the Ford Escort is generally upbeat, with strong points being listed as ride comfort, fuel economy and outward visibility. Proper maintenance is key, as most owners report trouble-free driving well into the 100,000-mile range, while some others have indicated troubles with the automatic transmission. Though a well-maintained Escort with lower mileage will sell for quite a bit less than an equivalent Civic or Corolla, the latter pair still has the edge in predicted reliability.
Although it debuted 10 years earlier, the Ford Escort really came into its own with the introduction of the revamped 1991 model. A lower beltline and increased glass area afforded a more airy cabin and the 1.9-liter inline four was refined for smoother operation. Higher overall build quality was evident in the car's quieter, more refined demeanor and more substantial feel throughout. The all-new Escort GT was one of the better affordable sport hatchbacks of its day thanks to its free-revving, Mazda-sourced, DOHC 127-hp engine, four-wheel disc brakes and firm sport suspension. With the exception of the adoption of safety items such as dual airbags and (on some trim levels) antilock brakes, the Escort stood pat until its 1997 redesign.
User Reviews:
Showing 201 through 210 of 835.00-
my gt - 1991 Ford Escort
By jeremy - September 17 - 2:00 amhad mine with no probs for over 200 thousand miles
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13 Years and only two repairs - 1991 Ford Escort
By julields - September 17 - 2:00 amIve had my Escort GT for 13 years! I bought it brand new in 1990, have put 160,000 miles on it, and in all that time, Ive had only two repairs. One $98 ignition switch and one oil leak (recent) for $300. Less than $400 in 13 years ... not bad. Ive taken good care, of course, with oil changes and all scheduled maintenance, but its still got umph when I need it and the most comfortable seats Ive ever found. Huge trunk and room in back seat are bonus, too.
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Keeps On Going.... - 1993 Ford Escort
By sportster97 - September 9 - 2:00 amBought Green 93 Wagon because of excellent deal at dealers auction. I move alot, so dragging my beefed up 78 Firebird w/ V8 not good idea, gas, etc. So thats where this car comes into the picture. So far Ive been pretty happy with it. Interior imaculant and exterior not to shabby. I found the interior to be better in quality than the newer cars today. I want to buy a new car, but none of the Sedans out there seem to satisfy my taste and budget. Hate to get rid of this car being so dependable. Dont much like the new Fords, so looking at Toyota Corolla in future.
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Love this car!! - 1999 Ford Escort
By My Great Car - September 9 - 2:00 amI went to Florida in March and got 40 MPG consistently on a two day trip. Cant get much better than that! I even get great mileage around my rural area, back and forth to stores, etc. Have not put any money into it, except a tie rod end, tires, and everyday maintenance. I love this car!!! Heats great, cools great, fun to drive!!
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zx2 review - 2001 Ford Escort
By dano99999 - September 6 - 2:00 amAn excellent, fun to drive coupe with eye catching style and excellent handling. The ZX2 is everything teh focus isnt- faster, sportier, sleeker, not boxy. Plus, teh aftermarket produces an incredible array or performance and style parts and accessories.
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Z-licious - 1998 Ford Escort
By gucciboy75 - September 1 - 2:00 amWell, I just purchased a 1998 zx2 "hot" from a private party. The car had 62,500miles when i bought it. The car has every option available except abs because when the seller ordered the car abs wasnt an option then. I have all the service and maintanence records for the car since new. That in itself is amazing. Its a perfect car for me because the upgraded seats hug my back althought I dont recommend it to large frame people. All in all I am very satisfied with my car and never thought I would say that about a ford.
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Perfect commutor car! - 2003 Ford Escort
By SDK - August 12 - 2:00 amI bought this car new in 1999, have over 100K on it now with only 2 repairs, A/c condedensor and a tie-rod. Last tank of returned 35MPG. No squeeks, no rattles Faster than the Focus SVT, in fact faster than almost anything in its class. You need to go with the something like the Tubo Subaru or the new SRT Neon to go quicker, of course you will spend thousands more.
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Great Car - 1998 Ford Escort
By JoshStud - August 12 - 2:00 amGreat handle! Awesome Car!
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great to drive - 2002 Ford Escort
By cspeedy976 - August 8 - 2:00 amit fun to drive and good on gas.this is my second car. the last one was a 1998 now i have a 2002
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EXCELLENT CAR - 2000 Ford Escort
By Tim Nall - August 5 - 2:00 amI BOUGHT MY ESCORT IN 2001(A YEAR OLD WHEN I BOUGHT IT). ITS BEEN A WONDERFUL CAR FOR ME. NEVER HAD ANY PROBLEMS WITH IT. I LOVE EVERYTHING ABOUT THIS CAR. ITS MAINTAINENCE FREE.
