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:

• 

  I miss my contour - 1996 Ford Contour
  By ButterCup41 - July 17 - 2:00 am

  This is a fun car to drive. I have not really had any major problems with it, just a few recalls that had to be taken care of (headlight connector and heating switch or something like that.) I have the 4 cyl engine and it still has kick after 7 years, just make sure you keep up the maintanance. It is in the shop now getting the timing belt replaced, cant wait to get it back :-)

• 

  96 contour - 1996 Ford Contour
  By ptemplin7 - July 15 - 2:00 am

  To many repairs plus the dealership is as bad as they come. Way to many warrenty repairs. Selling tires and others had to be replaced only 30K miles in. As someone once rated this this is a poor quality car. Hopefully they have corrected in later models.

• 

  should be named "Contortion"... - 1995 Ford Contour
  By Contortionist - July 13 - 2:00 am

  ...since this is what you do when working on it. Engine/transaxle/accessories extremely mechanic-unfriendly to service. Automatic transaxle failure at 120k (an expensive part and labor to replace.)

• 

  1995 Ford Contour GL - 1995 Ford Contour
  By JRBNH - July 1 - 2:00 am

  We inherited this car from a family member over 3 years ago, which we use as a daily driver. 4 cylinder GL with automatic, 92k miles. Its just one problem after another, too many to list here. Im a firm believer in maintenance by the book, so Ive taken good care of this car. Sadly, its an exercise in futility. Lots of design flaws, inside and out that irritate on a daily basis. Subpar power and fuel economy. For a domestic car, its actually a nice compromise between ride and handling. For any trip, we use our 1991 Acura w/ 260k miles because we know that itll get us there and back without a reapir bill.

• 

  never again!!!! - 1998 Ford Contour
  By corey469 - June 29 - 2:00 am

  After having this car for only about 3000 miles (41000 when purchased) the cv joints went. Then it was recalled for not having the shock covers on the front. Then the air blowers went, all the air came out the defroster!! 5000 more miles, the serpintine belt went along with the spark plugs. Now my car always says its cold. Broken Sensor. The air always smells like anti-freeze when i drive!! When i put the a/c on, i lose about 30 hp!!! The car is slow, unreliable, uncomfortable, and too much to maintain!!!

• 

  So Far So Good - 1996 Ford Contour
  By Timinana - June 27 - 2:00 am

  No major problems to this point. Fun to drive with 5 speed. Gas milage great! Not so good in the snow! Great front buckets, I wish I had them in my Mustang! One and only problem, no tilt wheel. I love this car.

• 

  The Sage Continues - 1999 Ford Contour
  By Ctour Love - June 14 - 2:00 am

  Now I would expect Ford to make a poor car. It is somethimg that is expected of the horrific company. But I decided to try them because I would not want to hate them based on what others think. My Cat does not work,My ignition has just eaten my key, My Gas Mileage is horrible, My car rattles and it is impossible to carry on a conversation on the phone or otherwise while traveling, The car hesitates when I accelerate and has almost caused me to die twice while merging, The dash is warped, the oil pan has a leak,a nd Ford does not care. The makings of a poor company....Ford!

• 

  100,000 Miles in a Contour SE - 1997 Ford Contour
  By bcarpenter03 - June 12 - 2:00 am

  We have had this vehicle for five years and like it alot. We got it with the V6 and 5 speed manual transmission, and it has a totally different character from what you get at a car rental agency. It is a lot of fun to drive.

• 

  1998 Contour SE Sport - 1998 Ford Contour
  By weaselbomb - June 10 - 2:00 am

  In my opinion, the Contour SE Sport is the second best car that one could buy for commuting as well as carry things as well as people. The only other car i would buy would be the SVT Contour, although the insurance is much higher than the SE Sport. Nearly all of the features of the SVT are included on the SE Sport, although the latter lacks the horsepower boost from the SVT labs. A GREAT car, Ford really shot themselves in the foot for discontinuing this model. Fuel economy could be better, although i do have a lot of weight in my car at one time. VERY fun to drive, and VERY VERY comfortable for all 4 (or even 5) passengers.

• 

  99 Contour - heavy use - 1999 Ford Contour
  By Jinxo - June 5 - 2:00 am

  I bought this car intending it to be a heavy-use vehicle for a long daily commute. I have put well over 30000 miles per year on it. This car has stood up to the mileage in fine form while showing very little in the way of wear and tear. While not particularly flashy, the front seats are comfortable, the V6 performs well, and the reliability has been exceptional. The price was very reasonable and I have certainly gotten my moneys worth out of it. Im sorry that Ford decided to quit selling the Countour in the US. I would have bought another one. If youre looking for a good reliable vehicle to drive until the wheels fall off, you could do a lot worse.