well for a start, they are completely different mate.
i done this a while back and found out all about the US versions and dispite both being called escort, they're basically different cars.
hope thats some help. check out some of the escort owners clubs based in the UK. i'll find some links for you. heres two that i'm regualry on the BB.
www.interford.co.uk and
www.rsoc.net. both forums have galleries, tech info, chats etc, basically like AF!! but for all euro fords, fiesta, escort, sierras.