1996 Ford Escort Owner's Manual - Page 227

When to use D (Drive) D (Drive) eliminates the excessive shifting between third and fourth gears that your vehicle sometimes does when you are traveling through hilly terrain in j Overdrive. It also gives more engine braking to slow your vehicle on downgrades than j Overdrive. When to use L (Low) Use L (Low) when more power is needed to drive up steep hills. It also gives more engine braking than Drive when driving on hilly roads. Do not go faster than 38 mph (60 km/h) in this gear. You can upshift from L (Low) to Drive or from L (Low) to Overdrive at any speed. Reverse With the gearshift in the R (Reverse) position, the vehicle will move backward. You should always come to a complete stop before shifting into or out of R (Reverse). Neutral In N (Neutral), the wheels of the transaxle are not locked. Your vehicle will roll freely, even on the slightest incline, unless the parking brake or brakes are on. 227