What is the fuel tank capacity of the Ford Escort?
There is no single fuel tank capacity for the Ford Escort; most generations hold roughly 40–60 liters (about 10–16 gallons), with exact figures varying by model year and regional specification. The Escort lineage has been discontinued in major markets for years, so the numbers here refer to historical production and may differ for any restored or special-edition variants. For a specific car, consult the owner’s manual or the vehicle’s VIN data plate.
Overview: why capacity varies
The Escort was produced across multiple generations and continents, each with its own design choices and fuel-economy targets. Tank size changes are driven by engineering updates, engine options, and market regulations. The ranges provided below reflect typical configurations seen in North American and European models, as well as other regional variants.
North American Escorts (1981–2003)
In North America, the Escort was a mainstay through several redesigns. The most common fuel-tank capacity for these cars sits around the mid-40s to 50 liters range, with 12.4 US gallons (about 47 liters) being a frequently cited figure for many late-1980s to early-1990s models. Exact capacity can vary slightly by year and trim.
Typical capacity by generation (approximate, for reference):
- 12.4 US gallons (47 L) — common across several 1980s–early 1990s North American Escorts
- Slight variations of ±1–2 gallons (±3–8 L) in some late-year updates or engine options
For precise figures, refer to the specific year’s service manual or the original window sticker.
European Escorts (various generations)
European variants of the Escort spanned many generations with engines and trims tuned to regional fuel standards and driving styles. Tank capacities generally fall in a broader European band of about 45–60 liters (roughly 12–16 gallons), with mid- to late-generation models tending toward the upper end of that range. Some early models and market-specific versions used smaller tanks, while certain trims used larger tanks.
Typical capacity by era (approximate):
- Mk I–Mk II (late 1960s–1980s): about 50 L (13.2 US gal)
- Mk III–Mk IV (1980s–1990s): about 55–60 L (14.5–15.9 US gal)
- Market-specific variants: roughly 45–50 L (11.9–13.2 US gal) in certain trims
Because Europe encompassed many markets with different trim levels, the exact number can vary by country and model year.
Other markets (Australia, Africa, Asia, etc.)
Outside North America and Europe, Escort variants generally used tanks in the same broad range as European models, with many examples around 50 L (about 13.2 US gallons). Some regional specifications offered slightly smaller or larger tanks depending on local regulations and engine choices.
Representative figures by region:
- Australia/New Zealand: commonly around 50 L (13.2 US gal)
- Other regions (Asia, Africa, Latin America): typically 45–55 L (11.9–14.5 US gal) depending on trim and engine
As with other markets, exact capacity should be verified from the specific vehicle documentation.
How to verify the exact tank capacity for your Ford Escort
Because the Escort spanned multiple generations and markets, the precise fuel-tank capacity for a given car must be confirmed from authoritative sources tied to that vehicle. Useful references include the owner’s manual, service manuals, build sheets, and the data plate on the vehicle’s door jamb or fuel-filler area. If you’re working with a restored or gray-market car, check conversion notes or consult a Ford heritage database for that model year.
Summary
In short, the Ford Escort does not have a universal fuel-tank capacity. Most configurations fall within roughly 40–60 liters (10–16 gallons), with North American systems often around 47 liters (12.4 gallons) and European variants frequently in the 50–60 liter range. Exact figures depend on generation, market, and trim. For precise capacity, reference the specific vehicle documentation or Ford’s technical specifications for that model year.
