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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  My second car - 1999 Ford Contour
  By Jamie725 - June 1 - 2:00 am

  I bought this car in August of 2003 with 41k miles on it. Overall, I am very satisfied with it. ery good handling car, couldnt ask for any better. It meets all my needs as a student and doesnt break my bank account.

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  No problem car - 1995 Ford Contour
  By Lana - May 28 - 2:00 am

  Bought this car almost 5 years ago, with almost 68K miles, and have not had any problems with this vehicle of any sort, just basic maintenance. It takes me where I need to get to, be it a local drive or a longer trip of a few hundred miles. A good car for the money paid and for a single girl with no knowledge of the mechanical/ car-related issues.

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  Great Car When its Not at the Mechanic - 1995 Ford Contour
  By Alejandro - May 27 - 2:00 am

  Car at the dealer for repairs six times in the first two years I owned it: EGR valves (?), catalytic converter, oxygen sensors, electrical system issues, and other stuff I have forgotten. Last 5 years: electrical system shorted out twice check engine light on all the time right rear suspension link broke, speedometer/odometer stopped working. All that being said I LOVE this car. The engine is powerful and fuel- efficient, the car is loaded with options and a joy to drive. Handling (before suspension problem) was incredible - like a European performance sedan.

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  Our Ford Contour - 2000 Ford Contour
  By Cat Lover - May 14 - 2:00 am

  We have been very happy with our Contour. It has only needed normal upkeep and has had only one moderate problem caused by my daughter and her lack of experience in driving. It fits everyone in our family from my husband who is 62" to our daughter who is only 411".

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  167K and still running - 1995 Ford Contour
  By Rock_2 - April 30 - 2:00 am

  This was my first car and Im still driving it. Have had to deel with a few recalls on gas tank, seat belt bracket etc. Other issues included front wheel bearing, shock springs, air bag sensor and key lock. Most were under warranty, some were not. Dealership experience has been mixed. Some are good, others were horrible. I think I would probably avoid getting a first year launch car if I were to do it over again.

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  Might want to steer clear of this one... - 1996 Ford Contour
  By Wig7 - April 19 - 2:00 am

  I bought this car with 80k on it and it was good for a while. Tranny is very problematic as are sensors. Replaced water pump and serpentine belt. Front bearings and alternator twice. Ford transmissions seem very crappy. Vehicle always stalls at stop lights, even in neutral. Might want to try something another car.

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  Watch out, it might implode!!! - 1995 Ford Contour
  By Ford Hater - April 15 - 2:00 am

  I got this car from my mother when I was in a bit of a tight spot for transportation. Now I know why she wanted to get rid of it. V6 5speed was fun to drive and I nearly drove the engine right out of it. Fortunately I had it in for new front stuts and they found that the engine was missing 5 of the 8 mounting bolts. Over the ensuing months it lost the alternator, water pump, wheel bearings, and the check engine light keeps comming on (which leaves my mechanic at a loss.)

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  GREAT CAR!! - 1998 Ford Contour
  By Bobram67 - April 15 - 2:00 am

  This is a great car. Best one Ive bought.

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  Weird Stuff Breaks on this Car - 1996 Ford Contour
  By scwallac - April 13 - 2:00 am

  I love the design of the Contour. The outside is nice to look at, and the interior controls are very well placed, with excellent ergonomics. HOWEVER....all *kinds* of weird stuff breaks on this car that shouldnt. Examples: Coil springs(!), front wheel bearings(!), timing belt clatters terribly, headlights-on warning chime, heat only works in defrost position, rubber weatherstrips fly off, transmission went after 125k miles, AC doesnt hold charge etc, etc... You can read all about these flaws in the Ford "TSB - Technical Service Bulletins". If you buy this car, make sure to buy the service manual and technical service bulletins - youll need them!

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  GREAT Car - 1996 Ford Contour
  By EXCLNT CAR - April 12 - 2:00 am

  I love my 96 Ford Contour. This car has been nothing but reliable. I have over 108,000 and other than minor repairs I have had to do nothing to keep my car running smoothly. If it were a little bigger I would keep it forever.