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:
Showing 301 through 310 of 410.00-
Black Beauty - 1996 Ford Contour
By My Black Beauty - January 15 - 2:00 amOne of the best cars ever! I love it, but very cold weather starts are a bit of a challenge. Styling is phenominal, plus the five speed V6 is very potent. This is my first manual, so learning wasnt too tricky.
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95 contour GL V6 - 1995 Ford Contour
By Wong - January 14 - 2:00 amI bought this for 6 mo and I dun find any fun on owning this car. It had many problems car. I had used 1600 to fix all the problems, tire rods, brakes, radiator, water pump, and electrical wires on this car. I wont recommand this car to any friends of mine.
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97 Ford Contour - 1997 Ford Contour
By Deborah Bussell - January 13 - 2:00 amAlthough this is a small, economical car, I find it to be more than I bargained for. It handles well, taking corners well. It is extremely dependable. With 120,000 miles, I have never had a minutes trouble, even on cold mornings. Never had to replace any shocks. I have been extremely satisfied with my Contour. I only wish I could buy a 2003 model.
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put me in debt - 1995 Ford Contour
By put me in debt - January 9 - 2:00 ami got this car with45000 miles on it . 24 valve v6 at first fast ,about a month later the transmission started acting up all the recalls electrical blinkers not working tail lights not working coolant light coming on but didnt need anything than at 10100 miles no oil leaks no overheating the motor just blows up .there is me and my 2 kids on the side of the expressway stranded no warnings transmission problems from day one never buy a ford they are known for bad transmissions
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2nd worst car ever owned 1st ford tempo - 1995 Ford Contour
By bobpez - January 4 - 2:00 amCrapy from the start. Power steering failed at 20k, both cv joints 40k, first trans went at 70k, dash caught on fire from recalled wiring at 80k, timing belt at 100k snapped, at 120k trans went out again, and sent the car to the junk yard
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Vroom vroom Candie the Contour - 1998 Ford Contour
By Pixie tha Racer - January 3 - 2:00 amI love my Candie the Contour. I bought her in Nov. with 69k mi. and have had many problems since. Within our first week together, she needed a new serp belt, new spark plugs,a new air filter, a coolant flush,and a new glove box. During the second week, she stalled like crazy and eventually wouldnt start cause she needed a new fuel line. Not to mention the humming sound when I turn the wheel to the right, or the big huge CLUNK! When I take a sharp turn. And after all this work, shes been mine for two wonderful months now and STILL the freekin coolant light and the check engine lights come on ALL THE TIME! AHHH!
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WOW A RUNNING FORD - 1995 Ford Contour
By smits - December 31 - 2:00 amI think the contour is the best Ford car there is. My Ford Contour Se has been running since day one there is been no major problems only some recalls none of which effected my auto. I have has it since aug of 95 and It has never has an oil change and it still runs wow. the end
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This was a great car! - 1998 Ford Contour
By yeah-yeah - December 28 - 2:00 amWe bought this Contour (V6, AT, A/C, PW, PD, CC, AM/FM/CD, Alloy 15" Wheels, Keyless Remote & Anti0-Theft Immobilizer) to be our everyday driver. It turned out to be a great car, with a few problems. Before the 3yr / 36,000 mile warranty expired, we bought a 6 year/100,000 mile warranty for $1200. Good thing, too, because at 40,000 miles the transmission suddenly started "slam-shifting" and had to be replaced to the tune of $3,500 at the dealer. The extended warranty covered 90% of that, so it easily paid for itself. At around 85,000 miles the Check Engine Light started coming on -- all it needed was new spark plugs to pass its CA smog check (with flying colors).
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NICE LOOKING PIECE OF CRAP - 1995 Ford Contour
By MEGSNEGS - December 23 - 2:00 amI HAVE ONLY HAD THIS VEHICLE FOR 6 MONTHS, HOWEVER, IT WAS ONLY DRIVEABLE FOR 2 MONTHS. TRANSMISSION SENSORS WENT OUT- BOTH OF THEM, BELTS BROKE. CUPHOLDERS BROKE OFF,RADIO STOPPED WOR
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Fun to drive - 1999 Ford Contour
By CarDude123 - December 17 - 2:00 amThought the Honda was the bomb until I drove the Contour. I tryed to put the Contour into a "controlled-skid" at a midspeed (30-35 mph) with a very sharp turn, then darn thing wouldnt let go of the road. Tried it three times before giving up. The layout and instruments are easy to understand and utilize. The trunk is roomy. It is a blast to drive. Very low cost of ownership. I do my regular maintenace and have had no problems at all. Knock on wood. My first one was a 98 with 4 cyl. (plenty of power) and I upgraded to a 99 6 cyl to get more bells and whistles. Loved them both.
