Any time we put the Escort's pedal to the metal for passing or quick stoplight getaways, we kept asking each other the same question: Could you speak up a bit?The Escort Wagon's 1.9-liter engine is tough and durable, but it's also noisy and not very peppy, particularly when it's mated to the optional 4-speed automatic transmission. Mazda's spirited 1.8-liter DOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder, a much better engine, is available in the Escort line, but only with the sporty 2-door GT model.
The 1.9-liter just doesn't like high rpm operation, and it has a fair amount of vibration, particularly at idle.
There is one plus for the Ford 1.9-liter, and that's fuel economy. With EPA ratings of 25 mpg city/31 mpg hwy., the Escort Wagon will roll past a lot of gas stations before you have to stop. However, it takes the 5-speed manual transmission to make the most of this engine's fuel stinginess. With the automatic, mpg numbers fall off sharply.
We recommend the 5-speed, a crisp-shifter that makes this little wagon a lot more efficient, as well as fun to drive.
Fun-to-drive is an Escort strong suit. Its steering - power-assisted (versus the basic Escort's manual steering) in our test car - is precise with good road feel, and the car's responses are quick and lively. An athletic, sporty character is common to all Escorts, and the wagon is no exception. In fact, the wagon, with its heavier rear sway bar, is a touch handier than the basic sedan and hatchback.
We were also impressed with our wagon's tidy turning circle - just 31.5 ft. - which helps out in crowded parking lots.
The Escort's right-now handling is a plus in all-around driving, and it's a big advantage in avoiding accidents.
The trade-off for nimble handling is ride quality that may be a trifle stiff for some tastes and a certain amount of harshness on rough pavement. The suspension does an adequate job of handling big lumps and potholes, but it doesn't do very well with small, sharp bumps.
And in addition to engine noise, the Escort Wagon scores somewhat below average for wind noise at freeway speeds.
We also have to give the Escort Wagon's brake system a below-average rating. Although our test car's brake performance was adequate, the absence of anti-lock brakes (ABS) - even as an option - is a distinct minus.
ABS, along with 4-wheel disc brakes, is available only with the Escort GT.
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