The 1997 Ford Escort Wagon is a great first car. I got my hands on one that had been well taken care of, and it was a reliable driver for me for two years, and I was hard on it. It has ample space in the back for carrying cargo. The seats are incredibly comfortable, and there's a lot of foot space in the front and in the back. I personally was really fond of the crank windows.

I feel other sites have undersold this car. They say it isn't equal to some of the other cars out there. Owning this car, so far I disagree with that. This car is very versatile and fun to drive.

My 98 Ford Escort Sport is, hands down, the best car I have ever owned. Over the years it has been reliable and steady and gotten me through all weather conditions - extreme heat, snow, sleet and torrential rain. It handles well and has needed only general maintenance over the years to keep it running smoothly. It's size allows me to get in and out of difficult spots (tiny parking spaces, parallel parking, drive-thrus, etc.) It also has great mileage. I am very pleased with it after all these years.