The main difference between your 1995 Ford Escort and a 1996 or newer model is the OBD computer system. 1995 and older Ford Escorts are equipped an OBD I system and 1996 & newer Ford Escorts are equipped with the OBD II system.
An OBD I equipped Ford will not have it's engine computer (ECU) connected to the smog machine via a Data Link Connector during the smog check. The smog technician will rely on an illuminated Check Engine light in order to determine whether an engine trouble code exists. If the Check Engine or Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) is ON, the smog technician will enter this information into the smog test terminal and the vehicle will fail the smog inspection.
On a OBD II system the Ford Escort is connected to the smog machine during the smog inspection and all engine data (including trouble codes) are transmitted to the smog machine. If trouble codes exists, the vehicle will fail the smog test.
As far as exhaust emission limits, newer Ford Escorts are held to stricter standards.
