98 Escort Misfire and Engine Stutter

Did you test the plug wires with an ohm meter? That is the only way without espensive diagnostic scopes to see if there is a break in one.

If you get around 6-12K ohms on each wire they should be fine. I like to replace them when they get over 15K ohms. Check them from end terminal to end terminal.

You definitely have a miss if you got a code. A strong miss will give you a flashing check engine light.
If all was well before. The most likely cause would be a plug wire or even a plug.
The code will tell you which cylinder.
On that one the cylinders are 1-2-3-4 from passenger to driver side.
You can swap plugs on the missing cylinder to a no missing one and see if the miss goes to the other cylinder. When it pops a code.
I would replace the plugs and install new GOOD quality wires. Too many junk ones on the market.

In plug wires. You can get the, form discount part stores. Just don't get the bottom of the line cheapest ones.I have had no problems with the better ones they have.

Thanks. Had it checked out, no code registered at all. Plugs and wires looked well, couldnt find a vacuum leak anywhere and all looked well pretty much. I planned on getting new plugs and wires anyways, even if they are still alright, simply because it's getting a full tune up. Running fine today as strange as it is. Mechanic suggested running some Lucas fuel treatment and waiting a few days and then swapping the fuel filter again. Will try and see what happens.