| Production | |
|---|---|
| Model Year: | 1968 |
| Production Years: | 1968 - 1976 discontinued in 1976 |
The Ford Escort I (AFH, ATH), produced between 1968 and 1976, marked Ford's entry into the compact sedan segment in Europe. This first generation Escort was designed as an affordable, practical vehicle catering to small families and individuals seeking efficient transport during a time of rising demand for compact cars. The Escort I sedan offered a balanced size ideal for urban and suburban driving. Typical dimensions include an approximate length of 3,985 mm (157 inches), a width of around 1,576 mm (62 inches), and a height close to 1,370 mm (54 inches), placing it firmly in the compact car category. Its curb weight varied based on exact model and engine, generally ranging between 850 to 950 kg (1,874 to 2,094 lbs), contributing to nimble handling and good fuel economy for its era. Underneath its modest appearance, the Escort I was built on a rear-wheel-drive platform with a simple yet reliable suspension setup that enhanced its driving dynamics. The interior of the Escort I sedan provided enough space for four to five occupants in comfort relative to cars of the late 1960s, featuring straightforward but functional instrumentation and controls. Over its production run, the Ford Escort I evolved with minor updates but maintained its core characteristics, making it a beloved classic that laid the foundation for subsequent Escort generations. Enthusiasts and collectors today appreciate the Escort I not only for its historical significance but also for its balanced size, maneuverability, and iconic design. Its dimensions and weight reflect the automotive trends of the late 1960s, prioritizing economical, small-sized vehicles suited to modern commuting needs, a sharp contrast to larger sedans of earlier decades.
Discover the standout features that make the 1968 Ford Escort I a leader in its class
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The Ford Escort I (AFH, ATH) 1968 sedan measures approximately 3,858 mm (151.9 inches) in length, 1,593 mm (62.7 inches) in width, and 1,360 mm (53.5 inches) in height. These compact dimensions made the Escort I a practical and maneuverable vehicle suitable for urban driving and narrow European streets. Its relatively small size contributed to its popularity as an affordable and economical family car during its production from 1968 to 1976.
The wheelbase of the 1968 Ford Escort I (AFH, ATH) is 2,401 mm (94.5 inches). This relatively short wheelbase contributed to the car's agile handling characteristics, enabling easy maneuverability in city traffic and tight corners. It also played a role in the compact overall size of the car, balancing interior space with exterior compactness.
The curb weight of the Ford Escort I 1968 varies by trim and engine choice but typically ranges around 860 to 950 kg (1,896 to 2,094 lbs). The lightweight design helped improve fuel economy and performance for its class during that era, as it was positioned as a small, economical car primarily suited for the European market.
Yes, the 1968 Ford Escort I (AFH, ATH) sedan, with its length of approximately 3,858 mm (151.9 inches), width of 1,593 mm (62.7 inches), and height of 1,360 mm (53.5 inches), typically fits comfortably into a standard home garage. Standard garages in many regions typically have door widths around 2,400 mm (94.5 inches) or more, which allows ample space for the Escort I without difficulty, along with space to open doors and move around the vehicle.
The Ford Escort I is designed as a compact sedan primarily seating four to five passengers comfortably. While it is a smaller car, the interior space was well utilized, offering reasonable headroom and legroom for front and rear passengers given its overall dimensions. The rear seat can accommodate two adults comfortably and an additional passenger if necessary. The compact size influenced the trunk capacity as well, which, while modest, was adequate for typical daily and family needs.
The Ford Escort I marked a fresh introduction in 1968 and did not have a direct predecessor in the same model line, as it effectively replaced the smaller and short-lived Ford Anglia in the European small family car segment. Compared to the Anglia, the Escort I was more modern with slightly larger overall dimensions and a more conventional, spacious sedan body style. It was more practical with improved ergonomics and handling, setting a new standard for Ford's compact cars in Europe during that era.
The 1968 Ford Escort I's dimensions—3,858 mm (151.9 in) length, 1,593 mm (62.7 in) width, 1,360 mm (53.5 in) height—place it within the typical size range for compact European sedans of the late 1960s. It was comparable to rivals like the Vauxhall Viva and the Volkswagen Type 3 in terms of length and width, though often appreciated for its lighter weight and more nimble driving characteristics. Its compact footprint made it competitive in the small family car segment, balancing efficient urban usability with adequate passenger and trunk space.
The Ford Escort I came primarily in sedan (AFH, ATH) variants, with minor dimension differences between these bodystyles. Both AFH and ATH codes largely represent early and slightly updated versions within the first generation Escort sedan range. Dimensionally, they remain consistent with roughly 3,858 mm (151.9 in) length and 1,593 mm (62.7 in) width. Variations occurred mainly in trim and equipment rather than size, retaining the same compact and practical overall profile that defined this model generation.
The 1968 Ford Escort I offered a range of modestly powered engines typical for compact sedans of the era. Initial engine options included 1.1-liter and 1.3-liter inline-four petrol engines with outputs ranging from approximately 44 to 60 horsepower, which suited city and everyday driving needs. The lightweight design and efficient engines provided decent fuel economy, though performance was modest by modern standards. These engines contributed to the Escort's reputation as an economical yet reliable family car.
The trunk capacity of the 1968 Ford Escort I sedan is approximately 275 liters (9.7 cubic feet). This space was typical for a compact sedan of its time, offering enough room for luggage, groceries, or small loads, making it practical for daily use and small family outings. The trunk’s design was straightforward, providing easy access and reasonable depth, which could be expanded somewhat by folding the rear seats in later versions, enhancing its versatility relative to many of its contemporaries.
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