I haven't heard of any V6 transplants into a 3rd gen ('97-2000) Escorts, but it has been done in a 2nd gen ('91-'96), and would most likely work with your car as well. Unfortunately, you would most likely has to change the transmission as well.
This fellow in Ontario put a Japan-spec 210hp 2.5L V6 from a Mazda MX-3 (closely related car, under the skin) in his '91 Tracer. He used the Mazda motor mounts and transmission as well. Check out the pics:
http://www.redpepperracing.com/cgi-b...bum=./TracerV6
You can contact this guy here:
http://www.redpepperracing.com/cgi-bin/rpr/contact.html (it's Darren)
I have a friend in the aftermarket industry who is very knowledgable about Escorts and what can be done to them, I will talk to him today about possible transplants.
Good luck
