1981 Ford Escort GLX Sedan
Add to SetSummary
Most Americans weren't very interested in small cars -- until 1973, when Middle Eastern oil-producing countries cut back on oil exports. Gas prices skyrocketed in the U.S., and shortages led to long lines at service stations. Many people still wanted big American-style cars, but more and more actually bought small four-cylinder, front-wheel-drive, European-inspired cars like this Ford Escort. "The new world car" evoked the Model T's slogan: "the universal car."
Most Americans weren't very interested in small cars -- until 1973, when Middle Eastern oil-producing countries cut back on oil exports. Gas prices skyrocketed in the U.S., and shortages led to long lines at service stations. Many people still wanted big American-style cars, but more and more actually bought small four-cylinder, front-wheel-drive, European-inspired cars like this Ford Escort. "The new world car" evoked the Model T's slogan: "the universal car."
Artifact
Automobile
Date Made
1981
Location
Not on exhibit to the public.
Object ID
80.84.1
Credit
From the Collections of The Henry Ford. Gift of Ford Motor Company.
Material
Metal
Glass (Material)
Rubber (Material)
Vinyl
Color
White (Color)
Red
Dimensions
Height: 53.3 in
Width: 65.9 in
Length: 163.9 in
Wheelbase: 94.2 in
Diameter: 13 in (Wheel Diameter)
Weight: 2029 lb
Diameter: 3.15 in (Bore)
Length: 2.4 in (Stroke)
Inscriptions
On left side of front grill: FORD On left side of rear hatchback edge: FORD On right side of rear hatchback edge: Escort GLX
Specifications
Make & Model: 1981 Ford Escort GLX sedan
Maker: Ford Motor Company, Dearborn, Michigan
Engine: inline-4, overhead cam, 98 cubic inches
Transmission: 4-speed manual
Height: 53.5 inches
Wheelbase: 94.5 inches
Width: 66 inches
Overall length: 164 inches
Weight: 2029 pounds
Horsepower: 65 at 5600 revolutions per minutes
Pounds per horsepower: 31.2
Price: $6,577
Average 1981 wage: $17,197 per year
Time you'd work to buy this car: about 5 months
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