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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  Still Going Strong - 2000 Ford Contour
  By ALS - February 5 - 2:41 pm

  This is an update of the review I wrote back in 2003. Since then I put another 50K on it and would expect to be close to 200K by year end. Im talking HARD miles - over road, country roads, sub zero weather, construction sites, any abuse you can imagine. Only expense since last review - tires, brakes & oil changes. Now, as would expect of a car at this price level, with the service its seen, Its virtually falling apart as I drive it (door handles, interior, power windows, trunk latch). But... It still gets up and goes every day, and Im not afraid to go anywhere with it.

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  Great Car - 1996 Ford Contour
  By robertn78 - February 3 - 7:00 am

  This car is very fun to drive. It handles great and has a lot of power with a small 2.5L V6. I have a SE model which in my opinion looks better and it handles better due to different sway bars and shock valving. No problems with this car, just regular maintenance.

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  Git R Done - 1995 Ford Contour
  By Mr. Contour - February 2 - 3:05 pm

  We bought this car 3 years ago and havent had any major problems. The bearing on the right side is out, but that was normal for the way it was being driven. Very good in the snow for us (crazy huh).

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  A good second car - 2000 Ford Contour
  By DaveM - January 31 - 7:48 pm

  This car is one of the few Ive owned that I considered worth holding on to as a second car. By far the best value on the market for a V6 with manual, it gets > 30 mpg overall. Its still a pleasure to drive and has had no major problems - except, strangely enough, it needed a new fuel pump at 60K miles - same as reported by several other users. The after-market moonroof and optional CD/AM/FM system were worth getting.

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  For your Own Sake, Dont do it. - 1999 Ford Contour
  By kobken - January 22 - 4:29 pm

  The V6 engine is good, very powerful. But, for your own sake, please do not purchase this vehicle. We had to replace alternator, check engine shows up all the time, you wont feel safe driving it because there is always a possibility at the back of your head that says, it might break down. The chances are always big for Ford sedans.

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  Reliable, Economical & Good Handler - 1997 Ford Contour
  By Bob - January 19 - 6:51 am

  A very decent car. Nothing to get excited over, but great transportation. Handles very well, and with the right tires excellent in the snow. Got it with 33K on it and 100K warranty. Only the cigarette lighter and cup holders went out under warranty. 100k tune up, but needed new plugs at 85k. 4 cyl is simple to tune up. Smooth transmission. At about 110K needed new brakes (3rd set), waterpump and TIMING BELT. Still gets ok mileage at 114K, 23 city, 29 hwy. Used to get better, but its aging. You do have to maintain these! Do yourself a favor--get the tranny fluid changed (ideally flushed). Ive done that twice--happy transmission. Solid car!

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  HOW MUCH? - 1998 Ford Contour
  By B Alb - January 9 - 5:17 pm

  Bought car used with 40K on the odometer. Good price. Drove fine for about a year. Recall city, couldnt put gas in it, recall heater blower went out recall. Cankshaft positioning sensor went out, transmission went, eats front tires like the Cookie Monster does chocolate chips. Service engine light on repeatedly. Loose connection with front O2 sensor. Has a funny surge problem when accelerating. Replaced water pump. Brake rotors and wheels front end very difficult to remove, They stick to the hub. I have not had any of the alternator charging system problems that others have reported. Although the garage that did the transmission said they will never do another Contour.

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  My Contour - 1998 Ford Contour
  By Vinnie Saigh - January 2 - 1:53 pm

  When I purchased this car a year ago, it looked to be in good shape, and it was. I took it home, had the front bumper and fenders repainted because of multiple highway chips in the paint. Then Iwashed and waxed it, making it shine like new, and it really does look great. I replaced the starter and a fuel solenoid, and now my Contour runs excellent. The gas mileage is outstanding, which is perfect for a low-income high school student, like myself. Its very reliable, but being a 6 year old car, youre bound to have a few things to fix. Ive put about a total of $300 in replacement parts into this car, most parts being quite expensive. This car has done nothing but good for me this past year.

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  Great driving car, but... - 1997 Ford Contour
  By Chuck - December 17 - 3:28 am

  I bought this car because I loved the way it drives, and I still do. Im not completely happy, though, because I have never had such a series of small problems with a car. Interior parts (that darn cupholder!), window motors and relays, sensors, etc. The brake rotors are thin and have a short life expectancy. It never ends. But I have to say that Ive never been stranded in this car. The drive train has been 100% reliable. Still, Ford cancelled the model (I guess it drives too well) and the small things... so this will be my last Ford.

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  Trouble Free @ 81k - 1998 Ford Contour
  By David - December 15 - 9:08 pm

  Bought used at a bargain price. I use this car daily for my business. At 81k miles, I have only replaced the front brakes. No other expenses whatsoever. Excellent heat and a/c. Best I have had. Handling is super with the SE package. I have the 2.0 motor. A little sluggish off the line but picks up nicely ( without the a/c running). I averaged 28 mpg last summer in combined driving. Ride can be firm for some and road noise can be an issue, but this is one well made car IMHO. Best buy I ever made.