Ran into this gem... saw one for sale for $55 shipped, and went to Cobb's site to read up on it to see if it would fit the Escort.
http://www.cobbtuning.com/products/?id=5173
Cobb's Website said: The COBB Knob is the hottest shift knob available for the MAZDASPEED6. The COBB Knob is a fusion of the highest quality materials that, when properly mated, produce a knob that feels as good as it looks. Shifting has never been this exciting! The COBB Knob is designed to keep those extended shifting sessions exhilarating. The billet aluminum base is anodized in your choice of red or blue to help set the mood and is internally threaded to provide a tight fit onto the shifter shaft that won't come loose in the most frenzied of gear changes. The satin black delrin knob feels incredible and has a perfectly round contour to fit right in the palm of your hand. The package is complete with a COBB logo boldly engraved into the base to let everyone know whose knob you hold. The knob weighs 115g, encouraging smooth thrusts into every gear. Spin on a COBB Knob and go for a ride!
They CAN'T be serious with that.... 
