I found something. I'm not sure if it includes the escort since its only pertaining to the taurus or sable.
http://wiki.answers.com/Q/What_type_...aurus_or_Sable
1996 FORD TAURUS SHO 3.4L DOHC 32 Valve 8-cyl "Yamaha" Engine Code N = 6.6 Qts W/Filter Ford Motor Company reports that the company's switch from recommending 5W-30 viscosity motor oil to 5W-20 viscosity motor oil has saved 700 million gallons of gasoline since 2001. By reducing load and internal friction, lighter viscosity 5W-20 motor oils reportedly increase fuel economy by a half mile per gallon. In addition, Ford reports its use of 5W-20 oils has reduced carbon dioxide emissions by about one million metric tons a year. Note: Ford issued a TSB (technical service bulletin TSB 02-1-9) regarding the 5w20 superseding 5w30 Owners Manual specifications. Applies to the majority of the car products back to the early 1990's.