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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  Love it - 1998 Ford Contour
  By Floci - March 14 - 2:00 am

  Bought it used 2 and a half years ago with 29000 km on it. Replaced right front wheel bearing and rear struts (they leaked). The strut problem was my fault, Ive overloaded the trunk.Everything was fixed under warranty. The rest is only good stuff: handles like a dream, the V6 with the manual tranny is a great match, it has been very reliable and it is a great fun to drive. Sometimes I call it a poor men BMW.

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  Reviewing my Conto - 1998 Ford Contour
  By Teri Eklund - March 12 - 2:00 am

  overall I really like my conto.

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  This is a great car - 1998 Ford Contour
  By bobintexas - March 11 - 2:00 am

  I hate to brag but Ford got it right with the Contour. Why on earth did they stop making it for that silly Focus? Contour is the perfect blend of sports car and sedan with an engine that hauls. The back seat could be a bit roomier but other than that, its a wonderful call. Im going to drive mine until the wheels fall off.

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  Why not improve the this car? - 1996 Ford Contour
  By GEE - March 3 - 2:00 am

  I wish Ford would continued to build and improve this vehicle. Anyway, the transmission failed at 123,000 and I had it rebuilt at Cottman. Coming home from work, the transmission again failed at 209,000. I wasnt expecting the transmission to fail again. I decided to use Slick-50 transmission lubricant. Some people have warned me about using additives for the transmission. Anyway, none of the forward gears are working. I am considering replacing it with another CD4E transmission because I love the car so much. I have also replaced the timing belt and radiator.

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  This is a Great Car! - 1995 Ford Contour
  By William Cook - March 3 - 2:00 am

  I am the original owner and have put 110,000 miles on a 1995 GL 4-cylendar 5- speed manual Contour. I have only done routine maintenance on it with the exception of a blasted electrical problem with the cooling fan that was recalled and has been repaired several times -- but at Fords expense! There have been no other problems with the car. I think I get more miles per dollar spent with this car than any car I kmnow of. And as a bonus, its peppy and fun to drive (although I am told the version with the automatic transmission is sluggish).

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  nice for tha small family - 1995 Ford Contour
  By biZZy - February 25 - 2:00 am

  i like the pep that the v6 has. and its pretty comfortable for a guy thats 62! luckily my children are small, in a few years ill have to upgrade so theyll have some legroom.

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  The best car Ive owned so far - 1998 Ford Contour
  By Jim P. - February 19 - 2:00 am

  Has been a great car despite the abuse we gave it.

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  Great Car - 1998 Ford Contour
  By Christina75 - February 18 - 2:00 am

  This car is great! It drives smooth, but the size of the car could use a V6 instead of a 4 for power. This car is very roomy compaired to the Toyota Carola I test drove. I like the shoulder belt in the middle great safety for my children. All in all, The exterior, interior and safety features was a big plus. It did have two recalls on it that no one had ever fixed: heater blower resistor and connector, and the front spring shield.

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  Ford Cancelled it For a Reason - 1999 Ford Contour
  By Alan Nash - February 17 - 2:00 am

  The Contour has been a complete nightmare. My starter doesnt work, all three catalytic converters are faulty ($3,000). I was only 200 miles over the 70,000 emission warranty and the dealer refused to help. The gas mileage is 17.33 MPG, on the HIGHWAY!It produces a horrific smell during and after acceleration. It has alot of wind noise. The brakes are underpowered. It is uncomfortabable on highway trips. The transmisson slips and the speed sensor has gone out.Ford service is absurd. They will not help customers when there is a problem.I bought this car new and I would not recommend it to anyone, you get what you pay for.

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  STAY AWAY - 1996 Ford Contour
  By ShiltZone - February 15 - 2:00 am

  I had a lot of problems with the car after 60,000 miles. Around 70,000 to 80,000 most people who own this model will need to get a new transmission. The check engine light now around 90,000 is constantly on. I am about to get rid of it and I dont even want to sell it to anyone, I am trading it in for a Honda Civic.