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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  My new escort - 1997 Ford Escort
  By jalange - June 10 - 2:00 am

  Just bought the car three days ago from the dealer. Used to be driven by a little old man in town and the car only had 21,450 miles for a 1997 LX Sport. Looks like showroom new. Read reviews about quality, fuel economy and design and all have been correct, Ford has a great car here. I used to be turned off by Escorts since m-i-l picked me up at airport with a 1985 which died every 10 miles. Ford has really turned it around.

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  Great Economical Car - 1993 Ford Escort
  By mreniceguy - June 9 - 2:00 am

  Ever since Ive had my car, I have been impressed for the value. I have only had to make some minor repairs along the way but so far its performed better than I expected. The gas mileage is great, especially since I drive a lot between my home town and where I am currently working. A one way trip is about 215 miles. Ive put a lot of miles on my car since Ive had it and I cant complain. A great car for your money

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  Milking the car - 2003 Ford Escort
  By wolffie - June 9 - 2:00 am

  The ZX2 does exactly what a car of its size and build should: move. Fords five-speed manual transmission does an excellent job of milking every last one of the engines 130 horses. It shifts smoothly, and gets decent gas mileage (26 city, 30 hwy) even with quick starts more, ah, spirited driving. It handles well, even at high speeds, and turns tightly, capable of making a complete 180 on slightly wider residential streets. Ive driven a Focus, and, roomier though it was, I felt like I was driving a small tank it felt combersome compared to the succinct body of the ZX2. Its no Mazeratti, but its definitely a blast to drive.

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  95 Scort - 1995 Ford Escort
  By DeathSlinger00 - June 4 - 2:00 am

  i have owned my 2-door LX for over two years now, and have put many miles on it. this car is very fun to drive, and is rather reliable. although its highly underestimated, it does has some kick (with 88hp). if i ever trade it in, it will be for a 2nd gen GT... mainly because i love the body style, but would like to have a faster engine in it.

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  Excellent value for the money - 1997 Ford Escort
  By bgharrison - June 3 - 2:00 am

  I havent had my Escort very long bought it used with 57k miles on it. Excellent fuel economy, somewhat comfortable as far as leg room in the front (Im about 6 with long legs this is important!). Only with I had cruise control on this one for freeway drives, and pwr locks.

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  ZX2 - 2002 Ford Escort
  By UBer HAGS - June 1 - 2:00 am

  Very nice car for the price. The 2.0 Zetec is a great engine design that comes standard on the ZX2 but must be bought as an option on the Focus line. Not only does it have better aerodynamics but its also lighter than the Focus. Driver and Passenger seating comfortable even on non stop (except gas and food) trip from Austin to Philly with my brother.

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  Been Great for the Long Haul - 1998 Ford Escort
  By JennyFL - May 31 - 2:00 am

  Ive had my ZX2 since buying it new in 98--its been great! Ive put over 100000 miles on it with few problems-- had to replace the alternator. The 5spd is zippy and tight. Nothing better than knowing its gonna start up every time I need it to. Im sooo pleased to have gotten so much out of this little car and hope Im driving it for a few more years b/c Ill hate to give it up!

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  92 Escort LX 4 DR - 1992 Ford Escort
  By joshee23 - May 28 - 2:00 am

  Although an Escort, I must say I am VERY pleased with this vehicle. I have put better than 100,000 miles on this vehicle since 1995 and only have had to replace the tie-rod ends and the normal maintenance items like spark plugs, filters, and tires. It isnt a glamorous car but to get to-and-fro, it performed well beyond my expectations.

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  Good Car to Buy - 1999 Ford Escort
  By salisalisali - May 27 - 2:00 am

  Its a good car to buy althoug needs more leg space for driver.

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  02 zx2 - 2002 Ford Escort
  By faye544 - May 26 - 2:00 am

  Great car for single people with a limited budget! if you need to put a car seat in it however problems arise (esp. with rear facing models. there is no middle seatbelt in the back seat so children need to be behind the driver or passenger - not the safest places to be!