2002 Ford Escort ZX2 2dr Coupe (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
Mine is a 99. Great build quality, very peppy, engine pulls very strongly,quick steering, good looking exterior and interior. Smooth ride for a small car. Car has a battery saver. Good snow traction even with the optional 15 inch Eagle GA's. Car is very easy to drive and control. Rumored to be just as fast the Focus SVT. Magazines rate 0-60 7.4 - 7.8 seconds. Great gas mileage I get 29mpg minimum in the town. I have the 5 speed. Zx2 is very reliable. This car is cheap and fun.
Looks, engine, quality, frigid air conditioner freezes me out on highway trips, economical.
Six speed transmission to get highway mpg between 40 - 50. Engine could be quieter but for 13K what can one expect. Air kicks in abruptly it could be smoother.