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 pleasant surprise - 1995 Ford Contour
  By N.R.Mills - September 25 - 2:00 am

  I bought this car as a throw-away in 1997 with 69k miles on it. Here I am eight years and 100k miles later and its still going. I call it the zombie because the thing JUST WONT DIE! Thats a good thing. Its been so reliable that Ive almost come around to the Ford brand name.

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  98 Contour SE V6 - 1998 Ford Contour
  By Alan_01 - September 10 - 2:00 am

  So far (67K miles) this has been a pretty good car. The power is wonderful and the transmission is smooth-shifting. The drivetrain has been reliable with no repairs to date. With regular fluid changes/maintenence these cars can go a long way. So far the only problems have been paint and power windows. The paint on the rocker panels flakes off, but that could be caused by driving through construction for much of its life. The rear power windows will temporarily quit working, then work again later. The interior could be better, but it isnt too bad. The plastics have a cheap feel and the stereo could be better.

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  Many miles, still running - 1996 Ford Contour
  By MNDriver - September 9 - 2:00 am

  I have 173,000 miles on the contour and it still runs very well. No loss in compression or fuel mileage. Had to replace 2 power window motors, timing belt tensioner, and front ball joints. I hope to get 200k miles before I send it to its final resting place!

• 

  Lemon - 1999 Ford Contour
  By mlosasso - September 4 - 2:00 am

  I bought this car used with 400 miles on it. Two engines and $6,000 later, it is still (barley) going. My mechanic, as well as my independent research online, tell me that this car had serious issues and should have had recalls associated with the engine. In lieu of this, I plan to drive it as long as it will go to get my moneys worth, if possible.

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  Love it when its not in the shop..... - 1999 Ford Contour
  By Just OK - August 28 - 2:00 am

  SE sport V6 with 5 spd transmission is an excellent drive for the price. Interior features have drove me nuts. Dashboard peeled and replaced twice, endless wind noise and continual rattles in the dash board. The original tires were Firestone Firehawks and were worthless on anything other than dry pavement. Replaced at 30k with Bridgestone Portenzas and significantly improved control and ride. Ive enjoyed the car, but next time will spend the extra bucks for a higher class car with better fit and finish. Also, dont have any idea what the engineers were thinking about with the cup holders.

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  Like a single Mom - 1995 Ford Contour
  By Highpockets - August 27 - 2:00 am

  It gets up and goes when its sick, when its hurt, when it just doesnt feel like it. Dont have the extra funds to put into a vehicle just to keep it in pristine, like-new running shape. A WORK HORSE! Program car with 32k when I bought it. Roomy, comfy, a huge trunk. It just keeps going and going until I have the funds to do routine maintenance for a machine: brakes, motor mounts, tie rods, sensors, etc. Ford Dealerships suggest thousands in repairs. I choose per my budget. Energetically runs on for years before I get to the other items on the Dealers list. Was disappointed when I looked around and learned that I couldnt plan on buying a new one.

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  Still love it after 9 years! - 1995 Ford Contour
  By robdobby - August 22 - 2:00 am

  I ordered this car in early 1995, and nearly 9 years later Im still thrilled with it. The body is still tight, the V6 still smooth and torquey. It has been reliable, the first time it let me down was a few weeks ago when the water pump went (after 8.5 years and 76k miles). Its a shame that it was cancelled. Reviewers always complained about the back seat, but I think this is a perfect sized small sedan.

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  Excellent Engine -- Poor Suspension - 1996 Ford Contour
  By Sweep1120 - August 20 - 2:00 am

  The 4-cylinder in the Contour seems to be excellent -- 114,000 miles and no problems. And tremendous get-up and go for such a small engine on the freeway. However, the suspension and body construction problems (can no longer open gas cover from drivers seat) are troublesome. And no one seems to be able to correct them.

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  great new car - 1995 Ford Contour
  By StirrCrazy - August 19 - 2:00 am

  this is my first new car it replaced an 89 chevy celebrity that was on its last leg. I go to school 200 miles from home and this car if GREAT! its comfortable, reliable, and it looks great. Im NOT afraid to be seen in it. I would recomend it as a first car for a new driver. it is very safe and feul efficient!

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  best car for the money - 1998 Ford Contour
  By tom k - August 17 - 2:00 am

  I bought my Contour used in 2000. Highway milaege is around 26 mpg. I have a 2.0 I-4. Engine is quite peppy. Car is better than Civic od Corolla for lower price. It was designed in Germany. I test drove 200 hp Taurus SEL abd I still prefere my Contour. It has better feel behind the wheel. Ford did not introduce new Mondeo/Contour to US, which was a STUPID MOVE. As they do not offer next model I will have to buy Honda Accord.