How much was a Ford Escort in 1997?
In 1997, a Ford Escort cost roughly between $9,500 and $13,000 when new, depending on trim and body style.
That year marked a redesign for the Escort and the introduction of updated styling and multiple body configurations, including a sedan and wagon. Price differences reflected trim levels and optional equipment. Below is a snapshot of typical sticker prices for the U.S. market in 1997.
Typical new-vehicle MSRPs by trim and body style
Prices varied by trim and body style. The estimates below reflect typical sticker prices reported for the 1997 model year in the U.S. market.
- Escort L sedan: around $9,500–$10,500
- Escort LX sedan: around $11,000–$12,000
- Escort wagon: around $12,000–$13,000
Note: Wagons often carried a small premium due to added cargo space and practicality, while certain options (such as automatic transmission or air conditioning) could push prices higher within the same trim.
Context and caveats
Prices could vary by region, dealer incentives, and optional features. The Escort lineup in 1997 included multiple configurations for the U.S. market, with differences by body style and equipment. The figures above are representative ranges based on historical pricing data and may not reflect every dealer's exact price.
Ownership costs beyond the sticker price
Beyond the upfront cost, buyers considered fuel economy, maintenance, insurance, and resale value. The Escort was marketed as an economical choice in the late 1990s, with an emphasis on affordability and low operating costs.
Summary: The 1997 Ford Escort was priced in an affordable band for a compact car, with base versions typically under $11,000 and higher-trim models and wagons reaching into the low-to-mid $13,000s, depending on options and market.
How much did a Ford Escort cost in 1995?
1995 Ford Escort Pricing
| Original MSRP | KBB Fair Purchase Price (national avg.) | |
|---|---|---|
| Hatchback 2D | $11,115 | $1,524 |
| LX Hatchback 2D | $11,785 | $1,501 |
| LX Hatchback 4D | $12,220 | $1,522 |
| LX Sedan 4D | $12,390 | $1,451 |
How much was a Ford Escort in 1999?
1999 Ford Escort Pricing
| Original MSRP | KBB Fair Purchase Price (national avg.) | |
|---|---|---|
| LX Sedan 4D | $12,665 | $1,652 |
| SE Sedan 4D | $13,350 | $1,678 |
| ZX2 Coupe 2D | $13,705 | $1,818 |
| SE Wagon 4D | $14,550 | $1,956 |
How much was a Ford Escort in 1998?
1998 Ford Escort Pricing
| Original MSRP | KBB Fair Purchase Price (national avg.) | |
|---|---|---|
| LX Sedan 4D | $12,490 | $1,576 |
| SE Sedan 4D | $12,995 | $1,643 |
| SE Wagon 4D | $14,195 | $1,853 |
| ZX2 Coupe 2D | $14,325 | $1,766 |
How much was a 1997 Ford Escort new?
1997 Ford Escort Pricing
| Original MSRP | KBB Fair Purchase Price (national avg.) | |
|---|---|---|
| Sedan 4D | $12,225 | $1,371 |
| LX Sedan 4D | $12,975 | $1,506 |
| LX Wagon 4D | $13,630 | $1,750 |
