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:

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  Great Buy - 1999 Ford Escort
  By nydriver - August 3 - 2:00 am

  I purchased my ZX2 new and after 4 years of driving it, have yet to have a problem with it. Not only has it been reliable, but also economical. It drives well and makes long trips painless and city traffic less painful than in other cars. This car is a winner in my book.

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  Great car! - 1991 Ford Escort
  By Espo - August 2 - 2:00 am

  I bought this with 120,000 mi. as a second car for long work commuting. So far it runs great and from what the previous owner told me, it always has. Has nice styling and looks more aggressive than your average Honda Civic.

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  I love it! - 1999 Ford Escort
  By stolenhalo777 - July 28 - 2:00 am

  I went from a junker to this. I love this car. Great pickup, faster than alot of my friends cars. Nice and resectful looking. I love my new car and it runs great and its one of fords best cars. ford makes crappy explorers and other cars but this one is a awesome improvement.

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  Great First Car!!! - 1993 Ford Escort
  By bbajaj - July 26 - 2:00 am

  This car was bought brand new to be my "college car". Couldnt have asked for anything better. Although, I think a manual transmission is necessary. My girlfriend had a 95 auto, and she sold because her second tranny went out at 110,000. Her original tranny went out at 60,000 miles, which I hear is common with Fords. But with the manual, no problems there. Mine now has 110,000 miles on it and has been fairly reliable. No major problems, only maintenance for normal wear and tear. I would suggest this car to anyone who needs to get from point A to point B at a very affordable price.

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  Great Car - 2003 Ford Escort
  By Jess_sr05 - July 26 - 2:00 am

  The ZX2 is a great car! I recently got an 03 ZX2 for my 16th birthday and i love it! Its great on gas mileage, very easy to drive, and an overall fun car!

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  Ive be happy with my escort - 1997 Ford Escort
  By Shala - July 23 - 2:00 am

  I recieved my escort in high school and to my liking I still have it, six years later. Dipples my escorts name has took me through snow,rain, wind, and sun shine just fine. durning my college years it brought me home to San Diego,Ca and back to Tacoma and Pullman, WA. several time and I had no problems. Im proud to say Ive enjoyed my car and suprized its prformed so well. Ford did a good job on my car.

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  Best car i ever owned - 1998 Ford Escort
  By froman - July 23 - 2:00 am

  it is a great car for the price i paid for it. i bought it used a few months ago and havent had any problems.

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  quality - 1997 Ford Escort
  By p botich - July 17 - 2:00 am

  it appears ford used quality parts on these cars. even with high mileage thecar is very healthy and reliable.their just to slow for most drivers.

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  Beats the heck out of a KIA! - 2001 Ford Escort
  By goldiespeople - July 16 - 2:00 am

  I like driving the ZX2. I can go two weeks on a tank of gas. The "pep" of the engine is just right for me and my needs. Not to mention the affordability.

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  low initial cost and fun to drive - 2002 Ford Escort
  By struckhoff - July 14 - 2:00 am

  It is just a fun car to drive.