Comprehensive Guide to the Ford Escort 661: Your Essential Source for In-depth Knowledge

Introduction

For decades, the Ford Escort has been a beloved and popular compact car, offering a combination of practicality, affordability, and style. The 661 Escort, produced from 1995 to 1998, stands out as a particularly significant model, renowned for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and sporty handling.

Specifications and Features

Engine and Performance: The 661 Escort comes equipped with a range of naturally aspirated gasoline engines:

• 1.3-liter (1297 cc), 4-cylinder, 60 hp
• 1.4-liter (1388 cc), 4-cylinder, 75 hp
• 1.6-liter (1597 cc), 4-cylinder, 90 hp

Depending on the engine choice, the Escort 661 can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 11.2 to 13.1 seconds and reach a top speed of 98 to 112 mph.

Dimensions and Weight: The 661 Escort measures 163.5 inches in length, 66.1 inches in width, and 55.3 inches in height. Its curb weight ranges from 2,138 to 2,285 pounds.

Fuel Economy: The 661 Escort is known for its excellent fuel efficiency:

• 1.3-liter engine: 32-37 mpg (combined)
• 1.4-liter engine: 30-35 mpg (combined)
• 1.6-liter engine: 28-32 mpg (combined)

Transmission: The 661 Escort offers a choice between a 5-speed manual transmission and a 4-speed automatic transmission.

Safety Features: The Escort 661 comes standard with:

• Front airbags
• Three-point seatbelts

Step-by-Step Approach to Buying a Ford Escort 661

1. Determine Your Needs: Consider your daily driving habits, passenger capacity, and budget.
2. Research: Explore different Escort 661 models, engine options, and features to find the right fit.
3. Check Mileage and Maintenance Records: Verify the car's mileage and ensure regular maintenance has been performed.
4. Get a Vehicle History Report: Obtain a vehicle history report to check for accidents, repairs, or title issues.
5. Inspect the Car: Examine the car's exterior, interior, engine, and undercarriage for any signs of damage or wear.
6. Test Drive: Take the car for a test drive to assess its handling, performance, and overall condition.

Pros and Cons of the Ford Escort 661

Pros:

• Excellent fuel efficiency
• Reliable and durable engine
• Sporty handling
• Affordable to purchase and maintain

Cons:

• Limited rear seat space
• Basic interior design
• Relatively slow acceleration with smaller engines

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the best engine option for the Escort 661?
   - The 1.6-liter engine provides a good balance of performance and fuel economy.

2. Is the Escort 661 a safe car?
   - The Escort 661 offers front airbags and three-point seatbelts as standard safety features.

3. How long will an Escort 661 last?
   - With proper maintenance, an Escort 661 can last for over 200,000 miles.

4. What are common problems with the Escort 661?
   - Head gasket leaks, ignition coil failures, and alternator issues are potential problems.

5. Is the Escort 661 a good first car?
   - The Escort 661 is a compact and affordable car that can be a suitable option for new drivers.

6. What is the fuel tank capacity of the Escort 661?
   - The Escort 661 has a fuel tank capacity of 12.5 gallons.

7. What is the interior like on the Escort 661?
   - The interior of the Escort 661 is basic but functional, with cloth seats and a simple dashboard layout.

   

8. Is the Escort 661 a good value for money?
   - Given its combination of affordability, reliability, and fuel efficiency, the Escort 661 offers good value for money.

Conclusion

The Ford Escort 661 is a versatile and dependable compact car that has stood the test of time. Its exceptional fuel efficiency, reliable engine, and sporty handling make it an attractive choice for budget-conscious drivers seeking a practical and fun-to-drive vehicle. While it may not offer the most advanced features or spacious interior, the Escort 661 remains a popular and valuable option in the used car market.

Tables

Table 1: Ford Escort 661 Engine Specifications

Table 2: Ford Escort 661 Dimensions and Weight

Table 3: Ford Escort 661 Reliability Ratings