1998 Ford Escort
Should You Buy a 1998 Ford Escort?
The 1998 Ford Escort is a compact sedan that offers a blend of practicality and efficiency, making it a solid choice for budget-conscious buyers. With a 2.0L I4 engine producing 110 horsepower and 125 lb-ft of torque, it delivers adequate performance for daily commuting. The vehicle's front-wheel drive system and 5-speed manual transmission contribute to a fuel economy of 28 MPG combined, making it an economical option for those who prioritize fuel efficiency. However, potential buyers should be aware of the vehicle's safety record, which includes 102 crash incidents and 94 reported injuries, indicating that while the Escort is a reliable choice, safety should be a top consideration.
In terms of reliability, the Escort scores a commendable 94.3 out of 100, suggesting that it is generally dependable. However, the presence of 470 total complaints, including 17 fire incidents, raises some concerns. Buyers should weigh the vehicle's affordability and efficiency against its safety record and known issues to make an informed decision.
This vehicle is best suited for budget-conscious individuals or small families looking for an economical daily driver with decent reliability.
Strengths
- +High fuel efficiency at 28 MPG combined
- +Affordable maintenance and repair costs
- +Compact size ideal for urban driving
- +Good reliability score of 94.3/100
- +Decent performance for a compact sedan
Weaknesses
- -Safety concerns with 102 crash incidents
- -Reports of engine and airbag issues
- -Limited power and performance compared to newer models
- -Basic interior features and amenities
- -Potential for higher insurance rates due to safety complaints
Known Issues (NHTSA Data)
The 1998 Ford Escort has a notable number of complaints, particularly regarding airbag and engine issues, with 59 complaints related to frontal airbags and 26 concerning engine cooling. While the reliability score is high, the presence of fire incidents and crash reports indicates potential safety risks that should not be overlooked. Prospective buyers should conduct thorough inspections and consider the vehicle's history before purchasing.
Performance
- Horsepower
- –
- Torque
- –
- Engine
- 2 L
- Cylinders
- I4
- Transmission
- Manual 5-spd
- Drive Type
- FWD
Efficiency
- MPG Combined
- 28
- Fuel Type
- Regular Gasoline
Dimensions
- Length
- 174.8 in
- Width
- 66.9 in
- Height
- 53.1 in
- Wheelbase
- 98.4 in
- Curb Weight
- 2,474 lbs
- Ground Clearance
- –
Capacity
- Doors
- 4
- Seating
- –
- Cargo
- –
- Max Cargo
- –
- Max Towing
- –
- Max Payload
- –
Estimated Value
Value estimate unavailable. MSRP data not available for this vehicle.