Ford Escort Hatchback 1980
  • Economy

    Value

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Good cars still demanding high price tags.

    Costs

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Standard mpg low to mid 30s, modified and heavy right foot low 20s. Tyres about £40 each, fronts don't last long, only elevated costs are gearbox due to internal viscous LSD and turbocharger itself.

  • On the road

    Driving

    5 out of 5 5.0

    The standard stuff can be a bit mush! To get the most out of the RST you have to upgrade the suspension and the brake pads. Once this is done the driving becomes sure footed and predictable.

    Performance

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Standard performance excellant, but supercar killing power is ridiculously easy to release.

  • Living with it

    Reliability

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Just a few unique faults. Valve stem oil seals frequently harden and cause harmless but irritating blue smoke, a large and expensive (£30) ignition relay can often fail, stopping the car instantly and if too much bhp is liberated the gearbox/LSD can fail.

    Image

    5 out of 5 5.0

    The series one (1985 upto mid 1986) is now truly an icon.

    Comfort

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Standard Recaro seats very comfortable and with the 'Custom' (electrics, cl and man sunroof) pack you'll have all you want.

  • Security and Service

    Security

    1 out of 5 1.0

    The only big downfall in the early mid-eighties Escort. Woefully easy to break into and drive away. Serious electronic and physical deterrants must be utilised.

    Service

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Mechanical service was very good, but the bodyshop and bodywork customer service and workmanship were extreamly dissapointing.

  • Problems and Ownership

    Problems

    Engine

    Valve stem oil seals.

    Other

    Ignition relay.

    Ownership

    Did you buy the car new?

    Used

    Would you buy the same model again?

    Yes

    Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?

    Yes