1998 Ford Escort GTi review from UK and Ireland

Nothing has gone wrong.

I have bought a 1998 Escort GTi with only 47k on the clock. The car is mint and totally standard, right down to the radio. I have always liked Escorts, and I prefer them to the Focus because of the styling.

The Fiat Punto rear end styling on the Ford Focus is not my cup of tea, the Escort rear end looks a thousand times better with the spoiler. I have previously owned two 1997 Escort 1.6 16v Zetec engined cars. This 1.8 GTi feels slightly quicker, but nothing to write home about.

I just love the way the car still looks in 2009, considering the Escort 95 design is 14 years old. The alloys and side skirts really make the car look nice.

I can't understand why Escort GTi owners wish to spoil their cars by adding on silly modifications. Just appreciate the natural beauty of the car. I would pay a lot more for a car which is totally standard compared to one which has a bolt on turbo, uprated suspension, wheels, engine mods etc.

I have paid £1400 for mine with 47k on the clock and not a spot of rust in sight. Original Ford radio and mine has the factory options of ABS, air con, sunroof, Ford CD changer under front passenger seat, original unmarked wheels, everything looks as it should be, and I will keep it this way.

Overall a lot of car for the money in my opinion, and I hope one day Ford see the light and bring back the Escort and drop the Focus.