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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  Fun car but not reliable - 1998 Ford Contour
  By Julie - September 2 - 10:45 am

  I bought my Contour in 2002 because it was a great deal. I enjoy the V6 engine and the low end torque, but thats where the fun stops. The car has had so many problems over the years - if it werent for my handy father, I would have sold it years ago. The major problem that the car had was that the wiring harness got fried because it was placed too close to the engine without heat protection so the wires overheated and fried. Then, shortly after that, the power windows stopped working and dad jerry-rigged the wires and now they work sporadically. The car has also recently started to "eat" oil and I need to put almost one quart of oil in every two weeks.

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  Ford Contour - 2000 Ford Contour
  By Brian - August 29 - 11:12 am

  My car just hit 60,000 miles and still running strong. Have not had to put any money into it other than routine maintenance. Gets pretty good gas mileage for a V6 with great power. Had some problems with the dashboard for awhile but was able to glue it back on. Its not afraid to be pushed around corners because of its great grip. Great car and power for the money that I paid.

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  Been a Good lil Car! - 1998 Ford Contour
  By gluis55 - August 8 - 10:04 am

  I bought this car since we had two kids, and the other car I had was a Beretta, (two door). We needed a 4 door. The car is quick, and comfortable. My wife loves driving the car. The only complaint is the oil leaks! When I first bought it it was leaking from what appeared to me was the front gear cover and oil pan. It wasnt too bad, now it is definitely getting worse. You can smell the oil burning on the exhaust when it leaks. So now it is time to fix it, but not sure I want to spend the $850 the dealer wants to repair. Car has 97k on it got it used with 62k. Have had no real problems with it. Just maintenance 26 mpg.

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  Been a good car! - 1995 Ford Contour
  By KRocks - July 30 - 4:27 pm

  Were the 2nd owner on our 2.0L 4 cylinder GL model. We bought it with about 30K on it and are at almost 121K now. We bought this exclusively as a back & forth to work runner and its served its purpose well. We still get 28- 30mpg but its starting to nickel & dime us a bit. Its really been a great car and the problems weve started having are things youd expect with a car this old. Weve recently had to replace the timing belt, water pump, brakes, and the costly item was the catalytic converter. Wouldnt hesitate to buy another one with lower mileage.

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  junk on wheels - 1999 Ford Contour
  By giggles_16 - July 27 - 12:23 pm

  This has been the worst car I have ever seen. It has left me stranded about 3 times, and that is not good because Im just a high school student. An important note - NEVER consider this kind of car for a beginning driver. It is way too undependable. We have had to replace the engine transmission, brakes, just about everything and there is still something wrong. The inside is falling apart, the windows are starting to go off-track, and one of the doors will not open anymore. It was a big mistake for me to choose to by this car. It might have been kinda cute but looks are definitely NOT everything.

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  solid and dependable - 1999 Ford Contour
  By fawn - July 15 - 11:00 am

  I bought this new and am going on mile 116,000 now. Ford was bad about responding to complaints with the dash warping, which makes me not want to buy another Ford. But this car has been very dependable. I do regular maintenance, and it still runs like a charm!

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  age and comfort - 1997 Ford Contour
  By frank hart - July 14 - 4:18 pm

  Purchased this car from a private party with 27000+ miles August 2005 the car is clean inside and out, no dents or rust. Problem being our age (70-75), we need a better riding car. This make and size is perfect for a younger person.

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  Get a good tow truck plan! - 1998 Ford Contour
  By CLAZ - June 28 - 1:49 pm

  I originally leased this car for two years. I decided to buy the car because I had no problems up until that point. About two months afterwards, my transmission blew. 6 months later it was the engine and so on and so on. I ended up having to bring the car in for a minimum of $500 worth of repairs every 6 months like clockwork. Car had to be towed at least 10 times before I was finally able to get rid of it. Nobody ever really figured out the O2 sensor problem, electric problems,belt problems,etc. Its a shame because the car handled great after the repairs and it was very comfortable. Ford has the worst customer service I have ever experienced, they basically disown you after you leave the lot.

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  Not the best but manageable. - 1999 Ford Contour
  By Jaime - May 6 - 11:43 pm

  Average car. Good condition when I got it. Some minor problems needed to be fixed. But all repairs were affordable. The paint scratches very easily. Minor problems on engine. Interior is a little challenging when things start to pop up (dash panel pad). Its a nice car in some ways. Meaning average. Saves gas a lot more than older cars Ive driven. Just dont speed. So far reliable performance.

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  Love my Conto - 1998 Ford Contour
  By Teri13180 - April 18 - 5:56 pm

  I purchased my Conto used and I love it. It is a 6 cylinder sport model. Have had some minor repair work done, but all and all Im very happy with my purchase. I have taken it on several long road trips and have never had an issue. Very reliable, starts great in 30 below weather, and handles great on icy roads, which I encounter more than half of the year in Montana. Defroster could be a little better. I have had my engine light come on a few times, once was plugs needed changing, and the other times there was a miss when idling. My mechanic told me it happens with all sorts of different cars, just undo battery cables for 60 seconds and it resets. If thats my biggest problem, Im good to go!