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How much was a Ford Escort in 1985?

In the United States, a new Ford Escort in 1985 typically started around $6,000 for the base model, with higher trims and wagons pushing the sticker price toward the mid-to-upper $7,000s. In today’s dollars that equates to roughly $15,000 to $20,000, depending on trim and options. Prices varied by body style and region.


U.S. pricing in 1985


Typical Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Prices (MSRP) for common Escort configurations offered in 1985 were:



  • Base 3- or 5-door hatchback: about $6,000

  • 4-door sedan (L trim): about $6,300

  • Wagon or higher-trim variants: about $6,900–$7,500


Prices reflect available trims and options; dealer prices could vary by region and configuration.


Inflation context and value today


To help compare with today’s car prices, the 1985 price translates roughly as follows in current dollars (rough estimates): base around $6,000 becomes about $15,000–$16,000 today; higher trims near $7,500 translate to roughly $18,000–$19,000 today.


Summary


The Ford Escort in 1985 offered an affordable compact option with a base price around $6,000 in the U.S., climbing to the mid-$7,000s for more feature-rich variants. Inflation-adjusted, those figures align with roughly $15k–$20k in today’s money, depending on trim and region. The Escort’s pricing reflected its role as a practical, economical choice during a period of evolving fuel efficiency and small-car popularity.

How much was a Ford Escort in the 80s?


Coupe

1980 Ford EscortSpecsPrice
LSpecs: 1.6L, Leaded Petrol, 3 SPEED AUTOMATICPrice: $1,540 - $3,300
GlSpecs: 1.6L, Leaded Petrol, 4 SPEED MANUALPrice: $1,760 - $3,630
LSpecs: 1.6L, Leaded Petrol, 4 SPEED MANUALPrice: $1,540 - $3,300
Rs 2000Specs: 2.0L, Leaded Petrol, 4 SPEED MANUALPrice: $3,690 - $5,280



How much did a Ford Escort cost in 1985?


Price

StyleInvoiceMSRP
2dr Hatchback$0$6,236
4dr Hatchback$0$6,443
2dr Hatchback (1985.5)$0$6,472
GL 2dr Hatchback$0$6,990



What was the average car price in 1985?


In 1985, the average car cost around $11,838, while the average used car was about $5,431. The price of new cars varied significantly by model, with some compact cars priced at approximately $10,439 and luxury models costing much more. 
New car prices

  • Average new car: Approximately $11,838 
  • Compact car (1986 data, but indicative of 1985 trends): Around $10,439 
  • Examples:
    • Buick Skyhawk: $8,999 
    • BMW 318i Coupe: $16,725 
    • Toyota Pickup (base model): $7,703 
    • Chevrolet Corvette: $24,403 

Used car prices
  • Average used car: $5,431 



How much did a Ford Escort cost in 1986?


1986 Ford Escort base price starts at $6,360 to $9,123.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.