Two model years, one small run
The S/R was the first time Ford Racing and the Small Vehicle Center worked together on a hot Escort. It was offered for 1999 and 2000 only.
- 1997
The ZX2 coupe arrives
Ford launches the Escort ZX2 for the 1998 model year with a 2.0-liter Zetec DOHC four rated at 130 hp and 127 lb-ft.
- 1998
The ZX2 Fusion concept
At SEMA in Las Vegas in November, Ford shows the ZX2 Fusion, a yellow-on-black show car with a 230-hp supercharged Zetec, Roush spoiler and pedals and a short shifter. It looks like the S/R's forerunner, though Ford never said so. Ford release
- 1999
S/R debut
Ford Racing Technology and the Small Vehicle Center unveil the S/R at SEMA's second International Auto Salon at the Pomona Fairplex, March 26–28, 1999. It's the first product developed jointly by Ford Racing Technology and the Small Vehicle Center, with eight aftermarket partners. Ford promises "limited quantities" through select dealers from summer 1999, plus additional racing-only components. About 110 cars are built, all yellow and all five-speed manual. Reports say 108 went to Southern California dealers and 2 to Columbus, Ohio. Some sources say 100
- 2000
Production ramps up
About 2,000 cars are built, reportedly 1,000 yellow, 500 red and 500 black. Around 35 are believed to have been sold in Canada. Cars get an Iceman intake, different wheels, a blue valve cover and S/R seats. In Canada, Ford's French brochure lists the package as a "high-performance group", with Zinc Yellow paint available only with it. In September 1999 Motor Trend runs 0–60 in 7.6 seconds, against 7.8 for a stock ZX2. Color split from one source
- 2001
Package dropped
The S/R is gone. Most sources say this is also the year the coupe loses the Escort name to become simply the Ford ZX2. Some say 2000
- 2003
End of the ZX2
The ZX2 gets a facelift for its final model year, then production ends.