Overview & Reviews

"World music" is a nebulous satellite radio genre that tends to feature a lot of pan flutes, maracas, bongos and those crazy Australian didgeridoo things. The term "world car" is far less exotic, applying to a vehicle like the Ford Contour that can be sold in multiple markets with only minor changes made to best appeal to folks in both France and Fresno. It's an idea that German manufacturers have quite successfully subscribed to for decades, but one that American automakers have avoided as much as radio listeners avoid world music. Nevertheless, to save money and benefit from the engineering expertise of their European subsidiaries, American brands have increasingly turned to world cars in recent years.

The Blue Oval's first modern whack at them was the Ford Contour sedan produced from 1995 to 2000. Designed by Ford's European division and known as the Mondeo across the pond, the Contour had a decidedly European feel to it thanks to its spirited performance, composed handling and aerodynamic styling.

However, with a body size that fell in between compact and midsize, the car was often criticized for its lack of backseat legroom. Ford tried to compensate for this almost every year the Contour was sold. Excess seat padding was removed and the rear bench was redesigned, but its dearth of space remained the Contour's Achilles' heel.

In 2000, the Ford Contour was discontinued and not replaced. Its Mondeo sibling lived on in Europe, however, and is now in its third generation. This stylish, quasi-sport sedan was even driven by James Bond in Casino Royale and positive reaction to it has prompted speculation that it may eventually show up in the United States. Ford's "world car" Contour may soon live again.

Most recent Ford Contour

The Contour debuted in 1995 and was offered only as a front-wheel-drive sedan. Available in GL, LX and SE trim levels, the lower two trims came with a 2.0-liter inline-4 rated at 125 horsepower, with a 2.5-liter 170-hp V6 optional. The six-cylinder was standard on the SE. All Contours were equipped with a standard five-speed manual or optional four-speed automatic. Standard features included dual front airbags, tilt steering wheel and AM/FM stereo. Other equipment offered on the LX, SE or as options, included power windows and locks, air-conditioning, cruise control, sunroof, power driver seat, leather upholstery, and CD or cassette stereo. Antilock brakes and traction control were available on all models.

In 1998, the Contour received a midlife styling tweak with a redesigned front fascia and taillights that mimicked its Mercury brand sibling, the Mystique. The rear seat was redesigned to squeeze a few more inches out of the cramped quarters. The base-level GL was discontinued, while a high-performance SVT Contour debuted. Equipped with a 195-hp version of the 2.5-liter V6 coupled to a five-speed manual, this was essentially a sport sedan for people who couldn't afford pricier European marques. The SVT version offered fun handling and quick acceleration, with a top speed of 143 mph.

In reviews and road tests, we showered great praise upon the Ford Contour -- especially the SE and SVT versions. The 170-hp V6 powered the SE up from zero to 60 mph in 8.5 seconds, which was relatively quick for midsize sedans in the mid-1990s. We were impressed with this engine's broad power band and the wonderful pull it gave right up to redline. We also found that it handled better than many other competing sedans (or even sport coupes) thanks to its quick-ratio rack-and-pinion steering and relatively sophisticated rear suspension. The SVT's additional horses, 16-inch wheels, sport-tuned suspension and exterior styling enhancements made it even more desirable.

Downsides to the Contour were largely its cramped interior and questionable ergonomics. Ford's ubiquitous, small-lettered stereo drew considerable ire. Beyond that, the Contour was a fun four-door sedan that offered European moves at American prices -- one could even call it a "world car."

Past Ford Contour models

The Ford Contour lasted for only one generation from 1995 to 2000, with a midlife freshening in 1998. It replaced the Tempo in Ford's lineup.

User Reviews:

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  Great to own - 1998 Ford Contour
  By kristylint - April 2 - 5:14 pm

  this car is so reliable and so easy and fun to drive. It is a very nice and stylish car.

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  Just OK - 2000 Ford Contour
  By copychief - February 28 - 10:32 am

  We put very light miles on this car, and for that its OK, but nothing more. Its uninspiring and feels like driving a tank, with a turning radius wider than the Titanic. The good acceleration comes at such a high MPG cost that its not worth it. The interior feels incredibly cheap, even for a seven year-old $16,000 car. The blower fan is so loud you cant hear people in the back seat if its higher than "2" ... and thats added to a lot of road & wind noise on the highway. Thankfully we have had no major problems with the car, but its the niggling things, cheap interior and design quirks that will keep us away from any Ford product when we replace this car.

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  Pleasantly surprised and thankful - 1997 Ford Contour
  By T.Amundson - February 21 - 2:22 pm

  I bought my car used with low mileage almost ten years ago. I have not had one problem with it and have experienced only normal wear and tear. The car has been serviced regularly, consistent oil changes and new tires when necessary. Its great on trips being comfortable and reliable. At present it has a little over 100,000 miles on it and could go for another 50 to 60,000 miles. Car does need some cosmetic work but very little. Interior in excellent condition with no tears or cuts. Dashboard still in pristine condition as is the stereo (tape deck only). In short it has served me well...want to sell for automatic due to broken arm and age.

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  1998 Ford Contour Has Been a Good Car - 1998 Ford Contour
  By RDB - February 5 - 4:42 pm

  There are many bad reviews on this car. Even Consumer Reports says to avoid it. But so far, our 1998 2.0L SE, after nearly 80K miles and 8 years of driving, has had few problems. Total repairs for 8 years comes to about $1500.00. Quite reasonable. We bought it in 1999 when it was a one year-old demo. It has performed much better than our 1994 Ford Taurus 3.8L V6 which has had two blown head gaskets, one just recently. After 140K miles on the Taurus, we now have to get rid of it, though we had planned to keep it indefinitely. The Contour has been a much better car overall!

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  This has been a solidly reliable car - 2000 Ford Contour
  By Dave - January 30 - 10:05 pm

  This car has required only 2 minor repairs in 76,000 miles. We drive it daily and have taken a number of long trips with it. It handles well. It is a great size for driving in traffic and the visibility is good all around. Its not over-powered, but there are slower cars out there for the price. Too bad they stopped making this car --- I would buy another one.

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  Dont Buy This Car! - 1996 Ford Contour
  By hiker78 - January 24 - 9:06 pm

  Im at 128,000k and its sitting at a repair shop right now waiting for the auto salvage guys to pick it up...tranny finally blew and Im done dealing with this hunk of junk, multiple and frequent problems beginning 3 months from purchase date alternator, blower motor, brakes, sway bar links, outside window trims, temp gauge that burns out every 6k miles, serpentine belt, wheel bearings, broken cup holders, gas cap cover had to be pried open every time, various inside lights constantly burned out, paint peeling off front end, heat slow to warm up, weak A/C and the fuel pump wiring was at the point where I had to lean back and hold the plug down while turning the key to get the thing to start.

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  Too good to keep making - 1998 Ford Contour
  By Paul - January 16 - 10:16 pm

  The only Ford I ever owned was a 63 and a half Falcon V8 Sprint. I have 3, 98GL, 99LX, and 00SE Ford Contours. I bought one and a year later, loved it so much had to buy 2 more just to have in garage next to the Vette. Economy, dependability, and durability is job one on these Contours. I replaced the timing belt in 2 Contours at 75 & 90k just for general principal. Engines and trans have regular filter changes and no problems. A/Cs havent been charged yet. Engine and car electronics, not one problem. Set the cruise on the Rt 80, Mass Pike, MA, at 65 and it will hold its own and still get 35mph. The steering is still tight. The Contours are great fun cars. I may have to get and add an SVT.

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  I love this car - 2000 Ford Contour
  By aking1 - January 14 - 11:53 pm

  I have driven many cars that were great, but none greater than this car. Even though this car is a 2000, and I have driven many recent cars, it is my favorite. It has a lot of interior room that I am able to play my guitar in it during lunch breaks. Besides my truck, this is my reliable vehicle.

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  The Contour Experience - 1998 Ford Contour
  By Gnat - January 4 - 8:39 pm

  Faithful starting, efficient, rear trunk trickle leak from above in process of repair, regular maintenance with 3,000 mile oil changes, traveled half of East Coast, mostly a commute car, comfortable, about to do 90,000 mile maintenance, spent too much time diagnosing and dealing with problem locally. Ford dealership found problem and quickly and resolved, zeroing in on specific problem area with computer diagnosis.

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  Safe - 1997 Ford Contour
  By AndyL - November 10 - 12:34 pm

  I bought this car for my son but decided to keep it for myself because its zippy acceleration would only have caused me much grief. I enjoyed the car while I had it, but it ultimately saved my life in a nasty head-on car crash. The car withstood a 110 mile per hour impact. After a couple weeks in the hospital and months of rehab, I can honestly say the car performed as Ford planned. Between the air bags and the engineered crush points, Im happy to be alive to submit this review.