1995 Ford Escort LX 3-door hatchback review from North America
"Quick little ride"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Well, I knew it needed some work when I bought it, so I suppose it's not fair to gripe about the $1200cdn I put for rear struts, coils, and front brakes - but that's what I've done so far. Very easy car to work on, if that's your thing.
General comments?
Wow - what a blast to drive. I simply cannot believe how fast this car goes with that tiny 88hp engine. The transmission feels as though it has a very high final drive ratio; first gear is very short, and the car takes off like lightning (thanks to its ~2300lb curb weight). Of course, I am coming from an automatic 2.3L tempo, so... :)
Handling is light and precise, and I suspect there are some reasonable gains available above 4,000rpm with some basic intake and exhaust modifications (seems to lose power quite quickly).
Top speed is a little weak however (~150 km/h), when the low hp comes into play.
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| I just can't kill it! |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 2002 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2002 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.9 SOHC Manual |
| Performance marks | 8/10 |
| Reliability marks | 6/10 |
| Comfort marks | 7/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 7/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 132000 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 133000 kilometres |
| Previous car | Ford Tempo |
| Date of Entry | 17th September, 2002 |