I owned a 91 Escort GT. It was an ATX w/1.8l 16v engine. Of course I owned the car from 95-99, but during that time I really loved the car. The only problems I had were the tranny (don't forget ATX), & the timing belt. This was only my second car ever so I drove it pretty hard, but I was religious about oil changes & tune ups. The only thing I really didn't like was the fact that when you hit the brakes it really liked to lock up the front end

. Anyway, I say drive it & see what you think.