The Ford EXP was basically an Escort chassis with a sportier body. Some people do not consider the EXP to be an Escort, but without it, the Escort might not have made it's way to where it is today.
The EXP was released in 1982 as a Sport Coupe, which came with the same 1.6L CVH engine used in the Escorts of that time. There were three transmissions to choose from: A three-speed automatic, four-speed manual, or a five-speed manual. Mercury also released thier version of the EXP known as the LN7, which looked similar to the EXP, but came with smoked out tail lights, re-designed front clip, and a large hatch glass. The LN7 only sold in 1982, and was discontinued for the 1983 model year.
In 1984, The EXP lineup was expaned to three models, a Base, Luxury Coupe, and a Turbo Coupe. The Base and Luxury Coupes both utilized the standard 1.6L CVH engine, while the Turbo Coupe was fitted with the new 1.6L Turbo Fuel Injected engine. The Turbo Coupe was also fitted with side skirts and a rear spoiler. The 1985 model year went unchanged from the previous year.
In 1986, The EXP recieved a face lift. The front and rear bumpers, hood, headlights, and fenders were updated to give the car a sportier look. This is the time that the EXP started to look more like an Escort. The Turbo Coupe was removed from the lineup for 1986. Now there were only the Sport Coupe and Luxury Coupe offered. The 1987 Model year went unchanged, but in 1988, the Sport Coupe was removed, leaving just the Luxury Coupe for that model year. 1988.5 was the last year for the EXP.