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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  Fun, but still a Ford! - 1995 Ford Contour
  By mwh - August 14 - 2:00 am

  I purchased this car from my Father-in- law. He had it since new and it is a fully optioned V6 SE. By the time I got it (70,000 miles) I had to replace the full suspension system, tyres, Brakes, water pump, electric fan and some other things that I cant remember. As you can imagine I was less than impressed. The check engine light also came on at highway speeds (still does but know one knows why). I have been through 3 Ford dealers as they do not know what customer service is. But since I replaced the above components, the car has been reasonably reliable and is fun to drive. I have 2 young kids and it is roomy enough to carry our load on vacation.

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  Regrettful - 1998 Ford Contour
  By sucker - August 11 - 2:00 am

  Ive had this car for a couple years and have had nothing but problems. Now the Check Engine light stays on, despite a few dealerships checking it inside and out. It occasionally smells like gas, dies from time to time, and feels like its jumping when you are stopped. The worst part about all these problems is that nobody can find anything wrong! They tell me there is nothing to fix!

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  What a great car... even after seven yrs - 1996 Ford Contour
  By Jackcarteryahoo - August 5 - 2:00 am

  Very comfortable car packed full of options. Even after 100,000 miles, the car has plenty of power and acceleration. Ive taken great care of the car and it still looks and drives like new. I would highly a Countour SE if it has been taken care of.

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  Whats wrong? - 1995 Ford Contour
  By DRIVER8 - August 4 - 2:00 am

  I have a 1995 GL 4-cyl 5-spd manual with 116000 miles. It has been one of the best cars Ive owned, so why do so many people have so many complaints? After reading all the reviews heres the secret. 1) Get the manual transmission -- the automatic is unreliable and sluggish. 2) Replace the water pump and timing belt before 100,000 miles (doing these at the same time saves a lot on labor) -- they break down shortly after 100,000 and the repair after the fact costs more than the value of the car.

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  Great Value For Driving Fun - 1999 Ford Contour
  By El Cheapo - August 4 - 2:00 am

  Research indicates that the Contour is more reliable than your average American car, though it is still no Toyota or Honda. I am very pleased with the performance of this vehicle. The 2.5 liter V-6 doesnt provide neck snaping acceleration, but is quick. 0- 60 in 7.7 secs. The motor is smooth. Fuel economy is acceptable. The manual trasmission does its job well. The car handles much like a BMW, which is to say very well. The build quality is only slightly above average. The Contour is cheap to buy, fun to drive, and modestly reliable. Too bad it has been discontinued. Overall, a fine car.

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  Americans dont get it - 1999 Ford Contour
  By Kennard - July 24 - 2:00 am

  This is one of the most popular cars in Europe, where gas is $4 a gallon, where you can drive at 100 mph, where sports cars were born. In America we like fat, floaty, bloated behemoths, giant pick- ups that never haul anything. Come on, all you people who have problems and then complain loudly about it have no conception of maintenance. Your 88 Chevy pick-up never needs its oil changed, except for maybe every 50,ooo miles or so huh ? That 350 just runs and runs doesnt it? Yea, at 7 mpg, and you dont have to change the oil cause it leaks, and the quart you add every week is basically self changing. The Contour was a great car, but we just didnt get it.

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  ford contour - 1996 Ford Contour
  By mia thyberg - July 23 - 2:00 am

  New Car Purchase-did not work by time home(engine problem) . Shortly after -sunroof did not work. Shortly after that- floormattes let off a fume per floor heat was so hot(Ford said this was normal). Carpet coming up- ford refused to fix, but did fix radio . After 1 year- rubbers to windows flew off. 3 years- bottom leaks water so carpets are all wet in back and trunck (mildew). Ford refused to fix. No customer service after purchase(i.e. beg for a replacement vehicle while yours is being repaired though you pulled off the lot w/ a faulty vehicle)

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  Good Old Car - 1996 Ford Contour
  By J.Low - July 22 - 2:00 am

  Well,Ive owned this contour v6 for over a year and so far havent had any major repairs ,just some negligible minor flaws,trunk release cable snapped,thus solely use keyless entry to operate,oil pan gasket shows minor leaks and power steering fluid line also minorly leaks.Aside from above its fun to drive and reliable .Conclusion pros:well executed interior design and materials other than plastic on dashboard,brake and steering feels,light clutch,close gear ratio,acceleration at highway speed,4 discs,roadholding personality cons:too stiff ride,fit and finish,rattles and sqeaks,torque steer,road noise,low end grunt,rear legroom

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  Smiles for Miles - 1999 Ford Contour
  By PSU48187 - July 21 - 2:00 am

  The only way to get closer to a BMW in terms of handling and engine power, is to just go out and buy one. One of the better cars Ive owned, and I have a whole enthusiasts group that backs me there.

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  Not Bad - 2000 Ford Contour
  By ALS - July 19 - 2:00 am

  This is a company owned vehicle, which I got new in 2000. Its up to 110,000 hard driven miles and still going strong. Only problem has been replacement of fuel pump (2 so far), winshield wipers broke, and several bad pieces of interior and exterior trim have come loose/broke/fallen off. There is now alot of squeaking/moaning/groaning coming from its underside, despite recent replacement of all struts and and misc other suspension components. It did have serious handling problems in heavy rain and snow util I went with Aqua- Treads, now its glued to the road. The v-6 still has its bite despite the high mileage.