1984 Ford Escort Laser 1.6 petrol from Sweden
Summary:
My first car, I'm enjoying it like a kid
Faults:
I bought the car with very low mileage, so it doesn't have any mechanical issues.
Unfortunately, it has an unsightly rust hole on the right side, but it's less noticeable because the fender is new.
When I bought the car, everything was original: brakes, shock absorbers, springs, etc., but we've replaced them.
Also included are some additional parts I acquired, such as a windshield (they were worn) and original bumpers from an Escort MK3, brought from England.
General Comments:
It's my first car, it's almost 15 years older than me, and I bought it thanks to my first job, so it's very special to me. The car belonged to a man very close to our family who had to sell it due to health problems, and he let me have it for just 21K Swedish kronor (less than 2,000 euros/dollars).
The car runs very well and serves its purpose. I use it to commute to and from work, do the shopping, and for other minor needs. Since it's over 40 years old, it's exempt from road tax (another reason to keep it).
A car that turns heads everywhere, fun to drive, and charming.
It starts in any weather (especially cold, because here in rural central Sweden we don't get much heat).
What I love most about the car is its originality. Although it wasn't heavily used when I bought it, throughout the time I've owned it I've noticed that it's a robust, old-school car, built to last almost forever, which for me should be the true purpose of a car.
Very typical of its era, it doesn't have unnecessary features like air conditioning (we don't really need it around here), central locking, or electric windows, just 100% charm and reliability.
With this car I understand when older people tell me that cars over 30 years old were better, more reliable, and had fewer unnecessary problems; I don't know if it's entirely true, but they have a point.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 29th November, 2025
15th Dec 2025, 14:03
Hi, this is the OP writing.
Well, I understand that a car from the mid-2000s can also be useful, as you rightly say. In my case, the car is practically brand new, apart from some minor rust issues, and it runs perfectly. Given how I use it, I don't think it's worth getting a new car like a Focus, Golf, or similar model from the mid-2000s.
For now, I'm more than happy with my Escort. Besides having few breakdowns, it's cheap and easy to maintain, and it doesn't consume too much fuel if driven sensibly. Anyway, I really appreciate your advice and that you took the time to write in my review. I'll keep it in mind; if I do change my car, it will most likely be for a small one that's only a few years old.
13th Dec 2025, 01:44
Older cars were certainly simpler, though I think I'd prefer a more modern car for everyday use. Surely a Ford Focus from the early 2000's would be a good choice for your next car?