In the 1994 model year, the Ford Escort was the third best-selling car in the United States, settling right behind the Ford Taurus and Honda Accord, and sitting ahead of other small-car favorites such as the Saturn and Honda Civic.

What made the Escort so attractive to 336,967 buyers last year? First of all, it's a smart, modern, well-priced compact car. And second, it's easy to purchase thanks to Ford's popular one-price selling plan, which offers any LX coupe, sedan or wagon for the same manufacturer's suggested retail price.

The vast majority of Escorts are sold under the one-price plan. This is a comprehensive package that offers amenities such as power steering, 14-in. bright aluminum wheels, air conditioning, AM/FM stereo, clock, rear-window defroster, cupholder with a removable liner, and power mirrors. In addition, the wagons also have a luggage rack and rear windshield wiper/washer.

With a manual transmission, the price is $11,995; that number jumps to $12,810 with an automatic. There are no deletions, but upgrades are available. Most Escorts are sold with some upgrades, particularly in the audio system. This is a high-value package, so it's no wonder it has been popular.

The GT - our test car - is not part of the one-price plan. Available only as a 3-door hatchback, our GT featured an optional special decor package with an Ultra Violet exterior that will knock your socks off and appeal to every passerby under the age of 25.

The interior boasted Opal Gray bucket seats, door panels and seatback inserts, all trimmed with Ultra Violet. These aesthetics don't come cheap; our test model rang up at $16,670.