The Ford Escort II, produced for the US market between 1991 and 1996, represented a significant update to Ford’s compact offering. Within the Escort II range, the 1.9i variant with an automatic transmission occupied a middle ground, aiming to provide a balance of fuel efficiency and convenience for buyers who didn’t require the performance of the manual transmission options. This model was positioned as a step up from the base models, offering a larger engine and the ease of an automatic gearbox, but remained below the more performance-oriented trims. It was built on the shared Mazda/Ford BG platform, a collaboration that aimed to improve build quality and engineering compared to previous Escort generations.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Escort |
| Generation | Escort II (USA) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.9i (88 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 1991 |
| End of production | 1996 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed | 170 km/h (105.63 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.9 kg/Hp, 84.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.2 kg/Nm, 139.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 88 Hp @ 4400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 47.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 146 Nm @ 3800 rpm (107.68 lb.-ft. @ 3800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 1859 cm3 (113.44 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88 mm (3.46 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.8 l (4.02 US qt | 3.34 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6 l (6.34 US qt | 5.28 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1045 kg (2303.83 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Length | 4317 mm (169.96 in.) |
| Width | 1695 mm (66.73 in.) |
| Height | 1334 mm (52.52 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2500 mm (98.43 in.) |
| Front track | 1435 mm (56.5 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1435 mm (56.5 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut |
| Rear suspension | Spring Strut |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 175/70 R13 S |
| Wheel rims size | 13 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Escort II 1.9i Automatic was the Ford’s 1.9-liter inline-four cylinder engine. While not a cutting-edge design, it was a robust and relatively simple unit. The engine code varied, but commonly seen were variants related to the Ford Zetec family. This engine featured a single overhead camshaft (OHC) design operating two valves per cylinder. Fuel delivery was handled by a multi-port fuel injection system, a significant improvement over the carbureted engines of earlier Escorts, contributing to better fuel economy and smoother operation. The 9:1 compression ratio was a compromise between performance and the fuel quality available in the US market. Paired with this engine was a four-speed automatic transmission. This transmission, while providing convenience, wasn’t known for its sportiness or particularly quick shifts. It was selected for its reliability and suitability for everyday driving.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.9i Automatic Escort offered a comfortable, if not particularly exciting, driving experience. With 88 horsepower and 108 lb-ft of torque, acceleration was adequate for merging onto highways and navigating city streets, but it wasn’t a car built for spirited driving. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were geared towards fuel efficiency rather than performance. Compared to the five-speed manual versions of the 1.9i, the automatic felt noticeably slower, especially during overtaking maneuvers. The automatic transmission also diminished the engine’s responsiveness. The suspension, tuned for comfort, provided a reasonably smooth ride, but body roll was noticeable in corners. Steering was light and easy, making it suitable for urban driving.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.9i Automatic trim generally included features such as power steering, air conditioning (often optional), an AM/FM stereo, and basic cloth upholstery. Interior plastics were durable but not luxurious. Optional extras included a sunroof, upgraded sound systems, and alloy wheels. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, prioritizing ease of use over aesthetic appeal. Safety features were relatively basic for the time, typically including seatbelts and, in later models, an anti-lock braking system (ABS). The interior space was adequate for a compact hatchback, offering reasonable room for passengers and cargo.
Chassis & Braking
The Escort II utilized a relatively simple chassis design. Front suspension consisted of MacPherson strut setup, while the rear employed a twist-beam axle with coil springs. This configuration provided a reasonable balance of ride comfort and handling. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and drum brakes at the rear. The ABS system, when equipped, improved braking performance, particularly on slippery surfaces. The steering system was a rack-and-pinion setup, providing precise steering feel. The 13-inch wheels were typically fitted with 175/70 R13 tires, offering a good compromise between ride comfort and grip.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Escort II 1.9i Automatic received mixed reviews. Critics generally praised its improved build quality and comfortable ride compared to previous Escort generations. However, the automatic transmission was often criticized for its sluggishness and lack of responsiveness. Compared to the manual transmission versions, the automatic offered less engaging driving experience. Fuel economy was respectable, but not class-leading. The 1.9i Automatic was positioned as a practical and affordable option for buyers seeking a reliable and convenient compact car. It competed with other popular compacts of the time, such as the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, and Nissan Sentra.
Legacy
The Ford Escort II 1.9i Automatic, while not a particularly memorable or groundbreaking vehicle, proved to be a reliable and durable car. The 1.9-liter engine, when properly maintained, was known for its longevity. The automatic transmission, while not sporty, was generally dependable. Today, these Escorts are relatively affordable on the used car market, and well-maintained examples can still provide years of service. However, finding parts can sometimes be challenging, and rust can be a concern, particularly in regions with harsh winters. The Escort II represents a transitional period for Ford, bridging the gap between older, less refined compacts and the more modern vehicles that followed.
