1998 Ford Escort ZX2 review from North America
"A great car for a new driver, just avoid the automatic!"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Transmission slips slightly when going into second gear.
Emergency brake cable rusted and broke.
Scary noise (probably from transmission) sounded like a circular saw at one point.
General comments?
When I bought the car I knew the brakes need to be worked on and they ended up needing a complete overhaul, rotors, calipers, etc.
Back seats very tight for any person over 5 feet.
Nearly useless front cup holders, in front of shifter and under stereo and climate controls.
Very sporty feeling with good handling and decent acceleration from 130 horsepower. A lot of fun in the curves!
The car has almost a complete lack of acceleration with the air conditioning on, but at least it blows cold.
I get a lot of compliments on the looks from others which is great considering I only spent $2100 for it!
It is a very tough car, very durable. I took it racing off road with my buddy's Impreza and it killed him. It can take bumps, rocks, and small logs without flinching, but the 14 inch wheels don't do well in a mud bog!
The transmission, and Ford's reputation for automatics, prevents me from giving it full props.
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 2004 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2004 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.0 Zetec 4 cylinder Automatic |
| Performance marks | 6/10 |
| Reliability marks | 9/10 |
| Comfort marks | 8/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 10/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 82190 miles |
| Most recent distance | 87000 miles |
| Date of Entry | 24th August, 2004 |