What engine does a 1998 Ford Escort have?
The 1998 Ford Escort did not use a single engine—the configuration varied by market and trim. In the United States, the standard Escort lineup was powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder, while European and other markets offered a broader range, including smaller and larger Zetec-based engines.
North American market engines
In the United States and Canada, the 1998 Escort primarily relied on a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine across most trims. The sport-oriented ZX2 coupe, sold alongside the Escort, used a higher-output version of the same displacement in a form tuned for performance.
Common engine families
- 2.0-liter inline-four engine (the standard powerplant for most 1998 Escorts in North America).
- 2.0-liter DOHC Zetec inline-four used in the ZX2 sport coupe, offering higher output.
In North America, the standard 2.0 L engine powered the bulk of the lineup, with the ZX2 variant providing a sport-tuned option based on the same 2.0-liter displacement.
European and other markets
Beyond North America, the Escort was offered with a wider engine menu, including smaller entry-level units and larger Zetec-based engines, depending on country and model year.
Common engine families
- 1.4-liter inline-four (entry-level variants).
- 1.6-liter inline-four (common across several trims).
- 1.8-liter inline-four (DOHC Zetec variants in some markets).
- 2.0-liter inline-four (DOHC Zetec, available in higher-spec trims).
Across Europe and other regions, engine choices ranged from economical 1.4–1.6 L units to higher-performance 1.8–2.0 L Zetec DOHC engines, reflecting regional preferences and emissions standards.
Notes on engine options
Engine availability for the 1998 Escort varied by country, trim level, and regulatory environment. If you are checking a specific car, verify the VIN or owner’s manual for the exact engine code and specifications tied to that vehicle’s market and production year.
Summary
In short, there isn’t a single engine that defines the 1998 Ford Escort. The North American version commonly used a 2.0-liter four-cylinder, including a higher-output variant in the ZX2, while European models offered a wider range from 1.4 to 2.0 liters with Zetec DOHC configurations. Market and trim were the key determinants of the engine found in a given car.
How much is a 1998 Ford Escort worth?
The Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for a 1998 Ford Escort varied by trim, with the lowest starting at around $11,430$ 11 comma 430$11,430 for the LX Sedan and increasing to about $14,345$ 14 comma 345$14,345 for the SE Wagon. Other trim levels included the ZX2 Cool Coupe, which had an MSRP of approximately $11,580$ 11 comma 580$11,580, and the SE Sedan at around $12,730$ 12 comma 730$12,730.
- LX Sedan: Starts at around $11,430$ 11 comma 430$11,430
- ZX2 Cool Coupe: Approximately $11,580$ 11 comma 580$11,580
- SE Sedan: About $12,730$ 12 comma 730$12,730
- ZX2 Hot Coupe: Approximately $13,080$ 13 comma 080$13,080
- SE Wagon: Around $13,930$ 13 comma 930$13,930 to $14,345$ 14 comma 345$14,345
What engine did the Ford Escort have?
Powertrain details
| Engine configuration | Engine family | Output |
|---|---|---|
| 97 cu in (1.6 L) I4 | Ford CVH engine | 65–70 hp (48–52 kW) |
| 80 hp (60 kW) | ||
| 88 hp (66 kW) | ||
| 97 cu in (1.6 L) turbocharged I4 | Ford CVH engine | 120 hp (89 kW) |
What problems did the 1998 Ford Escort have?
Top 1998 Ford Escort Problems
- The Constant Control Relay Module May Fail.
- Ford Escort ZX2 rough engine idle issue with potential CCRM malfunction.
- Valve Seats on Cylinder Head May Fall Out and Cause Rough Running/Noise.
- Distributor Shaft O-Ring Seal May Leak Oil.
- Cylinder Head Replaced Due to Crack Between Valves.
What engine is in a 1998 Ford Escort?
Engine
| Base engine size | 2.0 L |
|---|---|
| Cylinders | Inline 4 |
| Base engine type | Gas |
