I am looking into adding Class 1 trailer hitch to 1999 Ford Escort wagon (NA 3rd generation (1997–1999)). I had checked several NA manufacturers (such as Curt, U-Haul etc.), none of them offer a hitch for that generation of Escort wagons (but do offer ones for sedans and ZX2).
At the same time, there are hitches for 2nd generation (1991–1996) Escort wagons (same as those for sedans and hatchbacks). And it looks like rear parts of 2nd and 3rd gen. wagons are nigh identical (one can search for more images to compare):
Wikipedia article does not explicitly confirms that, but states:
The Escort wagon largely retained the same body style, gaining only the new interior, front end & fascia, side-view mirrors, door handles, badging, and slightly restyled taillamps & reflectors.
Is there any confirmation that I can use hitches for older Escort on a new wagon (that is, if body panel stamping remained the same)? Or what and how do I measure under the car to see what exact dimensions I need to confirm to see what hitch I can use? Also, where do I find what type of wiring harness connections Ford used in both generations to see if I can use older T-harnesses as well?