The Ford Escort wagon specs for the 1997 LX start with a 2.0-liter SOHC four-cylinder making 110 horsepower and 125 lb-ft of torque, front-wheel drive and a standard five-speed manual (a four-speed automatic was optional). EPA ratings are about 24 mpg city and 34 highway with the manual, and 23/31 with the automatic. It is a small, light family wagon built for low running costs rather than speed.
Note: this guide covers the U.S.-market third-generation Escort wagon (1997 LX). Figures for weight, cargo and performance come from spec listings and vary by source, so treat them as approximate and check the car’s own paperwork.
Ford Escort Wagon Specs at a Glance
| Spec | 1997 Escort LX wagon |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0L SOHC inline-four, naturally aspirated |
| Power and torque | 110 hp (112 PS) at 5,000 rpm; 125 lb-ft (169 Nm) at 3,750 rpm |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual standard; 4-speed automatic optional |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Fuel economy (EPA, city/highway/combined) | Manual 24/34/28 mpg; automatic 23/31/26 mpg |
| Wheelbase | 98.4 in (shared with the sedan) |
| Length | About 172.7 in (4,390 mm) |
| Height | About 53.9 in (1,369 mm) |
| Curb weight | Roughly 1,145 kg (about 2,500 lb) per spec listings |
| Cargo space | Roughly 480 L behind the rear seat and 1,160 L with it folded, per spec listings |
| Seating | Five |
Engine and Transmission
The wagon uses Ford’s 2.0-liter SOHC four-cylinder, rated at 110 hp and 125 lb-ft. It is a simple, naturally aspirated engine aimed at everyday use, with a five-speed manual as standard and a four-speed automatic as an option.
The 130-hp figure often quoted for the Escort belongs to the 2.0-liter DOHC Zetec used in the two-door ZX2, not to the wagon.
Fuel Economy and Range
EPA ratings for the 1997 Escort wagon are 24 mpg city, 34 highway and 28 combined with the manual, and 23/31/26 with the automatic. Your real-world mileage will depend on the car’s age, condition and how it is driven.
Performance
With 110 hp, the Escort wagon is built for relaxed commuting. Some spec sites quote roughly 12 seconds from 0 to 60 mph and a top speed near 110 mph, but we have not found a reliable factory or magazine figure, so treat those numbers as ballpark.
Dimensions, Seating and Cargo
The wagon shares a 98.4-inch wheelbase with the sedan and is about 172.7 inches long, which keeps it easy to park. The rear seat folds to extend the load floor, and spec listings put cargo volume at roughly 480 litres behind the seat and about 1,160 litres with it folded.
Safety and Equipment
Safety equipment on the third-generation Escort included front airbags and seatbelts. Features such as air conditioning, ABS, a cassette stereo and power accessories varied by trim and options, so check the individual car instead of assuming a fixed equipment list.
Trims and Model Years
The third-generation Escort sedan and wagon launched for 1997. The wagon was offered in base, SE and LX trims over its run (the SE name arrived for 1998), and Ford dropped the Escort wagon after the 1999 model year in favor of the Focus wagon.
Buying a Used Escort Wagon: What to Check
- Confirm the engine and transmission match the paperwork (SOHC, 110 hp, manual or automatic).
- Check for rust around the rear wheel arches, sills and tailgate.
- Look for oil leaks, a healthy timing belt service record and a smooth automatic shift if fitted.
- Test the heater, air conditioning and all electrics, because older cars often have worn switches.
- Check for open recalls using the VIN with the manufacturer or Transport Canada / NHTSA.
Alternatives
Other budget classics on the site include the Chevrolet Chevette hatchback specs, the 1991 Honda Civic hatchback specs, and the Chevrolet Impala specs. For a newer compact wagon-style option see the Subaru Impreza specs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much horsepower does a 1997 Ford Escort wagon have?
The 2.0-liter SOHC engine makes 110 horsepower and 125 lb-ft of torque. The 130-hp Zetec engine was used in the ZX2, not the wagon.
What gas mileage does a 1997 Ford Escort wagon get?
EPA ratings are 24 mpg city, 34 highway and 28 combined with the five-speed manual, and 23/31/26 with the four-speed automatic.
Is the Ford Escort wagon front-wheel drive?
Yes. The third-generation Escort wagon is front-wheel drive with a standard five-speed manual and an optional four-speed automatic.
How big is the Ford Escort wagon?
It is about 172.7 inches long and 53.9 inches tall on a 98.4-inch wheelbase, with seating for five.
What trims did the Ford Escort wagon come in?
The wagon was sold in base, SE and LX trims over its run, with the SE name introduced for 1998. Ford discontinued the Escort wagon after the 1999 model year.
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