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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  A really good commuter car - 1999 Ford Contour
  By Jinxo - April 20 - 2:59 pm

  All in all, Ive really enjoyed this car. I buy a car primarily for the engine, and the Duratec V6 has been outstanding. You cant kill it if you shoot it, and it gives good power and mileage (25 city/30 hwy). Some things are starting to break now (the ignition lock, for example, plus some oil leakage), but Ive driven it long and hard. Im really sorry that Ford quit selling these in the US (still available in Europe as the Mondeo, for all the good that does me) I would gladly buy another.

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  A great bargain commuter car - 2000 Ford Contour
  By arcin69 - April 13 - 9:47 am

  I use it for commuting 190 miles a day. Extremely reliable. New brakes at 114,000 miles, timing belt at 100,000, fuel pump at 157,000. Only thing I replaced without wearing out was alternator at 44,000 miles.

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  Purple Lemon - 1995 Ford Contour
  By m. Junghans - April 12 - 7:31 pm

  Transmission went sour in 67,000 miles and had to be replaced. Fuel injection system had to be rebuilt at 68,000. Water pump went bad at 69,000. Transmission is designed so that a repair is not possible. Once you have internal problems the only fix it to replace the transmission (average estimate to replace was $3K). Water pump was designed with rubber blades on the shaft which wore down to nothing (average estimate to replace was $500). Fuel injection system design is complicated, thus expensive to repair. All in all this car lives up to FORDs intiials (Fix Or Repair Daily).

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  Its not a Mustang but it comes close - 1998 Ford Contour
  By stratus rt30 - March 14 - 12:05 am

  Im a teenaged driver and i got the car from my father in 2003. Most teens want sports cars or street racers. But when i first saw the Contour i thought it was weak. Then i got into the Contour. This car is a Mustang in 4-door form. I love this car its got the performance yet it also has the utility. The car has only required routine maintainance. I know Im a teen and I dont know cars too much . But I am a mechanic and my dad owns a dealership. If you keep the car in good shape this car will not disappoint

• 

  Awesome Car - 1995 Ford Contour
  By Erin - March 7 - 4:10 pm

  Weve had our Contour for almost 7 years. CARFAX says it was a rental before we bought it. Aside from replacing the alternator last year, weve never had to have major repair service done on it. Rear-ended twice by people going 20+ mph with no real damage. Nice power, turns great, comfortable, decently roomy in the back seat for a small car. Decent gas mileage for its weight and age. We are thinking of selling it (we want a Hybrid) and I will be sad to give it up.

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  One complaint - 2000 Ford Contour
  By arcin69 - March 7 - 2:19 pm

  Contour was a good car. Would have been great if they had trimmed it out the way it deserved. Needed more options and a nice interior. As a commuter car its been terrific. Going strong at 160,000 miles and still gets 31 mpg.

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  Not Happy - 1995 Ford Contour
  By Joe - February 21 - 11:06 am

  I bought the car in 97 and hod no problems. Once it hit 75K, everything started falling apart. I.e. Oil pan gasket, driver side power window motor, starter, water pump, AC compressor, one engine plug wouldnt fire -- replaced that, interior falling apart -- leather stitching, dash board plastic cracking, and now the transmission is going out. I have spent $2500 on car in last 2 years. Has 112K now and I cant wait to get rid of it. I WILL NEVER BUY A FORD AGAIN!

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  Not bad for a Ford - 1995 Ford Contour
  By My first American - February 18 - 2:51 am

  Bought it at 87K because the salesperson told me it was "Sport Edition" and cant be mistaken with its handling and ride quality. Yes tight handling and way too firm suspension, steering feel is just about as good as a BMW 3 series, interior and trunk space are ample compared to its compact size, nice folded backseat but should offer rear headrest and more rear leg room, road noise can be annoying especially on midwest pavement and jaw-breaking ride which leads to tons of rattles and sqeaks, engine is smooth and strong at highway speeds. Havent had major reliability issues except once water pump blew up at 96K and minor repairs - right rear window motor and trunk release cable went and now happy at 110K.

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  quality was not an issue - 1995 Ford Contour
  By grant r - February 15 - 5:10 pm

  Owning a Ford Contour has been perhaps my worst car experience. Every part of the vehicle seems to be made from toy plastic. I can effortlessly BEND the gear shift. A 3 year old child literally ripped out the cupholders. I have replaced front & rear springs, front & rear suspension, front & rear brakes, and timing system. Dont buy this car unless it is for a very short period of time and out of complete desperation. The good things: The transmission is holding up, and the radio still works. Several mechanics have confirmed that the heater will be the next to go. Be careful out there car-buyers.

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  I Love This Car - 1999 Ford Contour
  By woods - February 6 - 7:52 pm

  I cant say enough good things about this car - I love it, even at 140,000 miles! We did have the dashboard problem that was fixed via recall, but this car just keeps going and going like the Energizer bunny. The 5-speed manual transmission is very smooth when shifting. The car corners very well, handles very well in snow, and gets great gas mileage (around 34 mpg). Im extremely disappointed that Ford no longer makes this model, or anything comparable in a 5 speed manual transmission.