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 431 through 440 of 835.00-
92 Ford Escort LX - 1992 Ford Escort
By Valliere - June 18 - 2:00 amBought the car 2 years ago with 37K in 2 years put 55K. Cars runs like a champ. NO problems, grt gas miliage. Very dependable
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The little wagon that could - 1993 Ford Escort
By jimmywagon - June 15 - 2:00 amI bought my wagon two years ago, not knowing it would be the greatest used car I have ever purchased. Excellent gas mileage, and lots of room for storage. Sure, lots of new parts are on this wagon, but the Mazda powerplant still runs flawlessly at 150K miles.
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White Escort - 1991 Ford Escort
By pro - June 13 - 2:00 amI got this escort really cheap in good condition. This is our 4th Ford Escort. These are great cars. I highly reccomend them. Theyre great on gas and parts are cheat. These vehicles are very reliable. People only complain about these cars because chances are they dont take car of the car like theyre supposed to. Youll have that with any car.
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It really is okay... - 1997 Ford Escort
By Husoni - June 12 - 2:00 amAt first I had some issues with look of the vehicle as well as my experience with the dealership, but over the years I trully can not complain. I have backed into poles, other cars, spun out on the free way and still I have not had any injuries or had any repairs required. "it takes a lickin and keeps on tickin..." really. Gas is great as well. Its like my own private bumper car.
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It just keeps on going - 1998 Ford Escort
By mruconn - June 10 - 2:00 amI bought my 1998 LX after my 1993 Ecort GT started to give me problems and it was the most affordable car for me at taht time. I bought it new with 18 miles on it and as of today, 6/10/04, I now have 209,670 miles. No major problems, just things are wearing out but that is to be expected, plus I ma still getting 35+ mpg. It just keeps running and running, maybe thats why Ford discontinued it, it was too good.
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good little car - 1990 Ford Escort
By Rogerman - June 8 - 2:00 amI have had this car for almost a year now and its never had any problems altough sometimes it shifts into 2nd kind of hard.
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Wicked little Beater - 1993 Ford Escort
By Quanger - June 1 - 2:00 amOnly replaced minor things. Biggest problem was the heater core at around 150xxxmiles. Just replaced the brake pads (front), minor tune ups, oil changes, etc. The AC leaks somewhere but its not a problem since I use the car as a winter beater now. It gets GREAT mileage. The clutch needs to be replaced soon. Changed 4 winter tires (13" lol).$300bucks installed. Once went on fishing trip, you guys wouldnt even imagine. 6 passengers! (1 guy in the trunk lol). One cooler full of beer, portable bbq, tackle box, rods, etc. We must of had a combined weight of 1200lbs. Performance thrown out of the window. I love this car!
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18year old FEMALE - 2001 Ford Escort
By BrittL - May 26 - 2:00 amThis is a great car to start out with! Its cute its fun and who doesnt like to pay $15 to fill up the gas tank. I wouldnt have wanted to learn to drive a stick on any other car. It is very easy to handle, and the ride is smooth.Big hit with the parents because consumer reports rate it well!!!
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Fun to drive on short trips - 2000 Ford Escort
By Elderchuck - May 26 - 2:00 amThis Escort has been typical of the three Escorts we have owned previously. Well built, short on options, reliable, and hard on the back when sitting over an hour. Nagging problem with engine mounts (accelerator slaps foot and clunks on starts and stops and bad tie rods).
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Solid transportation - 1999 Ford Escort
By MartinPawley - May 24 - 2:00 amIve maintained the car, and it has performed well. The rear suspension needed to be replaced after a spring broke, but that has been the only mechanical disappointment.
