heres a few basics, if u have never owned a mk3 escort dont buy one simple as that,

rot as per s1 usualy places

price wise anything under a grand is cheap now whatever condition.1500-2500 will get a nice one.2500+ and this should be mint not nice or good condition "mint"

batter tray is put in on the piss, not straight like a s1

twin coil ignition system not like a s1 ie distrubiter, imo devalued if its a dizzy conversion

check the chassis number carefully on vin and driver side floor pan

various opitions unlike s1 ie may not have a sunroof, or tinted windows,or opening rear quarters,or electric windows.

look for the spoiler protecters on the rear quarters

make sure dash lights work

car may idel errractic when first started ie hunting the sorts itself out and idels smooth