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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  please someone take this car from me! - 1999 Ford Contour
  By Chris Hughes - December 9 - 5:12 am

  This is a very poor choice for a car. It is not fun to drive in the least, the automatic tranny is very unresponsive and unprecise, and the engine has a terrible drone to it. I average anywhere between 18 and 30 mpg. This car only has 38xxx miles on it, never abused, and always properly maintained at the Ford dealership. The interior is actually falling apart, numerous plastic pieces have fallen off including the entire dashboard peeling up.

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  Just a great car - 1995 Ford Contour
  By DASpike - November 30 - 12:39 am

  Bought my Contour new in late 1994 and am just about to turn 170,000 miles. Have the 4-cylinder, manual transmission. Ive been looking at new cars for about 3 years, but frankly havent found a need to replace this Contour.The car has been incredibly reliable. Save the expected maintenance (oil changes, brakes, tires, timing belt, etc), Ive probably had to put a total of $1000 into it over the last 10 years (and most of that was replacing a couple of engine mounting bolts). Routinely get about 33 mpg highway, and with the manual transmission the 4-cylinder has some pep to it. The car is rock solid and is fun to drive.

• 

  Be afraid, be very afraid - 1998 Ford Contour
  By oubobcat - October 31 - 1:00 am

  Bought it used in 99 and was reasonably pleased for a couple years, except for the endless list of recalls. Its always eaten tires because it wont stay aligned (no, it was never in a wreck). To date Ive spent $200+ to replace the o2 sensor, $350+ to replace a melted fuze box(heater fuze didnt blow like it was supposed to), dipstick replacement(yep, the dipstick broke), 2 alternators in < 18 months, and the transmission went out this week. Perhaps the buyer of this pile of scrap metal Im about to sell will do OK, since Ive already replaced most moving parts, but I wouldnt bet on it.

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  Alright Ford! - 1998 Ford Contour
  By gothikrok - October 31 - 1:00 am

  Well, lets see, lately, I havent had too much luck in cars but thats another story... In 96 my parents bought a brand new contour, lets just say that I was less than impressed. However, when I bought this fairly exhausted six-year-old car, my sences were thoroughly indulged. May I just begin my praise by anotating that this car rides on rails, not to mention its extreme acceleration(with five speed/2.5L of course), and yet it some how manages to have a rather decent ride. If you have ever been thrown off by the "family sedan" tittle, or, driven one that wasnt quite as exhillerating as mine, then you have my pitty...

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  Go Getter - 1999 Ford Contour
  By CISinger88 - October 26 - 2:00 am

  I bought my Contour V6 with 56,000 miles. I bought the car for its strong engine, good looks, and tight sport suspension. Good interior room overall, and trunk is spacious. I love the way the car handles - especially with a little upgraded rubber. Disc brakes all way around with ABS and traction do a great job keeping the car going the direction you want it, and handles very well in the snow. Wish I would have gotten a sunroof and the 5 speed manual transmission for resale. At 60,000, the trunk sprang a leak, had to have the seals replaced and some brake light wiring that was damaged because of it. Other than that, this car has been a pleasure to drive.

• 

  My Contour - 1996 Ford Contour
  By dvargas - September 27 - 2:00 am

  Ive had no major problems with the engine or performance in the last 8 years. The only recurring problems were with the body parts such as plastic interior items breaking including gear shifter, mechanical window repairs on 4 occasions, etc. Overall I have been very happy with my purchase. A very economical vehicle.

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  Pleasantly Surprised! - 1995 Ford Contour
  By Gino - September 22 - 2:00 am

  I am very pleased with my Contour. Going on 10 years now, I am rounding 100K and the car continues to run great. Now, mostly my wife uses it as a weekend car to run errands take the kids to soccer practice etc. Very safe vehicle. Great on gas.

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  Steer Clear - 1996 Ford Contour
  By odie561 - September 11 - 2:00 am

  Steer clear of this Ford contraption. It was nothing but trouble since we bought it. We had to replace two alternators, a power steering pump, and would have had to replace a transmission if we had kept it about 5 minutes more.

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  Ford Contour 1999 - 1999 Ford Contour
  By JoeT56 - September 4 - 2:00 am

  This has been a fairly good car. No engine or major problems at all. I think that the gas mileage could be alot better for a four cylinder. The only horrible problem Ive had is a bad dasboard. I had my dash replaced by the dealer because it warped in the sun peeling back from the defrost vents. The new one did the same thing. The dealer will replace it for about $1200.00 dollars! Theyre stupid. They replaced my defective one with another defective one. Other than that, its been a fairly decent car. Personally, I would not buy another contour, or another Ford. I didnt like the way they handled my dash problem. Very cold, not willing to help solve the problem.

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  lots of repairs - 1998 Ford Contour
  By jbird1979 - August 28 - 2:00 am

  When I first purchased this car, I should have know things wouldnt go well based on the number of recalls! The fuel filler neck, blower swith, airbag sensors, and transmission gear indicator were all in need of repair. Too bad everything else wasnt covered by recalls or technical service bulletins. Ive had to replace the AC system, cooling fan (twice), thermostat, belt tensioner, and much more. At least its paid for...