**Introduction:**
The Ford Escort has a long history in North America, starting with its European roots in the 1980s and evolving over the years to be built on a platform sourced from Mazda. This article focuses on a 1993 Ford Escort wagon found in a Colorado car graveyard, shedding light on its features and its place in automotive history.
**1. The Evolution of the Ford Escort:**
The original North American Ford Escort was based on its European counterpart and was sold from the 1981 through 1990 model years. However, after that, Ford turned to Mazda for the platform of the Escort, leading to the final ZX2 Escort coupes sold in 2003. This shift marked a significant change in the Escort’s design and performance.
**2. Features of the 1993 Ford Escort Wagon:**
The 1993 Escort wagon was only available in the LX trim level for that year, with an MSRP of $10,367. It was equipped with a 1.9-liter Ford CVH engine producing 88 horsepower, although other models that year came with a more powerful 1.8-liter DOHC Mazda engine. The wagon also featured a manual transmission, offering a more engaging driving experience.
**3. The Sibling Relationship with Mazda:**
The 1993 Ford Escort wagon shared its platform with the Mazda 323, also known as the Protegé, making it a close cousin to the Mercury Capri. This connection highlights the collaboration between Ford and Mazda during this era, resulting in shared components and technologies between their respective models.
**4. The Decline of Station Wagons:**
By 1993, station wagons were falling out of favor with American consumers, with the rise of minivans, SUVs, and crossovers dominating the market. The introduction of more compact SUVs like the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V signaled the decline of Escort-sized wagons, leading to their eventual disappearance from showroom floors.
**5. Unique Features and Accessories:**
The 1993 Ford Escort wagon featured air conditioning, AM/FM stereo, and a luggage rack as standard equipment, showcasing the amenities offered by Ford dealers during that time. Additionally, a humorous bumper sticker found on the car added a touch of personality, reflecting the creativity of its previous owner.
In conclusion, the 1993 Ford Escort wagon represents a transitional period in automotive history, where traditional station wagons were making way for newer, more versatile vehicle options. Its Mazda-based platform, unique features, and quirky details make it a noteworthy example of American car culture from the early 1990s.