How big is a Ford Escort gas tank?
The typical fuel tank for a Ford Escort is around 13 gallons (about 49 liters). However, the exact size varies by model year, market, and body style.
Ford produced the Escort for several generations in different regions, from the North American market in the 1980s–2000s to various European and global variants. Because of these differences, tank capacity isn’t identical across every car bearing the Escort name.
Tank capacity by market and generation
To give a sense of variation, here are the common ranges you might encounter, depending on year and region.
- US-spec Escorts (late 1980s–early 2000s): typically around 13 gallons (about 49 L).
- European/Rest of World Escorts: commonly around 50–53 liters (roughly 13.2–14.0 gallons).
- Early or smaller variants and certain trims: often about 12 gallons (roughly 45–46 L).
Note: The exact figure for any individual vehicle is usually listed on the fuel capacity placard in the door jamb or in the owner's manual. For used-car buyers, confirm the specification for the exact VIN and market.
Why tank size varies
Differences in chassis design, engine options, safety requirements, and market regulations lead to small variations in fuel-tank size across generations and regions. Even within the same generation, different body styles (such as hatchback vs. sedan) can influence capacity slightly.
Practical notes for owners and buyers
If you’re evaluating a used Escort or planning fuel budgeting, use these steps to verify the actual capacity for your vehicle.
- Check the owner's manual or the fuel-capacity placard located on the door jamb for the official capacity.
- If the manual isn’t available, search Ford’s service data or trusted VIN-based databases for your exact year, market, and body style.
- Compare the listed capacity to the typical range (about 12–14 gallons or 45–53 liters) to spot any unusual discrepancies.
Understanding the precise tank size helps with planning fuel stops, estimating driving range, and assessing resale value.
Summary
In general, a Ford Escort’s fuel tank sits in the 12–14 gallon range (roughly 45–53 liters), with about 13 gallons being a common figure for many US-spec late-1980s to early-2000s models. Always verify the exact capacity for your specific vehicle using the door-jamb placard or the official manual, especially when shopping for a used model or comparing similar variants from different regions.
How much is a 1990 Ford Escort worth today?
The value of a used 1990 Ford Escort ranges from $496 to $3,850, based on vehicle condition, mileage, and options. Get a free appraisal here.
How many gallons of gas does a Ford Escort hold?
12.8 gal.
Fuel & MPG
| EPA combined MPG | 26 MPG |
|---|---|
| Range in miles (city/hwy) | 294.4/396.8 mi. |
| Fuel tank capacity | 12.8 gal. |
| CO2 Emissions | 5.5 tons |
How big is the gas tank on a 2002 Ford Escort?
Fuel & MPG
281.6/396.8 mi. 12.8 gal.
How fast can a Ford Escort go?
The top speed of a Ford Escort varies significantly depending on the model year, engine, and modifications, with factory production models generally ranging from around 100 to 112 mph, while high-performance or modified versions can exceed 200 mph. For example, a stock Mk2 Escort had a top speed of 112 mph, while a specially modified Mk1 Escort has set a 200 mph record.
This video shows the world's quickest Ford Escort Mk1 reaching a top speed of over 200 mph: 50sMk1KieranYouTube · Dec 4, 2024
Factory production models
- ~100–112 mph: The top speed for many standard production Escorts from various model years was in this range, often limited by engine size and factory settings.
- Example (Mk2 1600 Sport): A 1600 Sport model had a top speed of about 101 mph.
- Example (1994 Escort): A common top speed for a stock 1994 model was around 100-110 mph.
High-performance and modified models
- ~120 mph: The RS1600, a performance-oriented model from 1970, had a near 120 mph maximum speed when new.
- 114 mph: An RS2000 model with a 2.0-litre Pinto engine could achieve top speeds of 114 mph.
- 200 mph: Specially built drag-racing versions have reached speeds over 200 mph. One Mk1 Escort holds a record of 200 mph.
