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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On Second Thought... - 2000 Ford Contour
By Michelle in Columbus - December 13 - 2:00 amWell, first there was the recall on the dashboard part. Then the trunk was leaking, very bad. The board in the bottom of the trunk is forever warped. Then theres the weather stripping trim of the door that keeps coming off and I enjoy the whistle of the wind as I drive down the road. I also have more trim around the windows that keeps popping up. And now I have to take it in because of a loud humming or buzz I hear when its cold. Ive always driven Ford and never had problems like this. And these are more of an annoyance than anything, but I still wouldnt buy another Contour.
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Nothing stops a Contour - 1995 Ford Contour
By NivekTS21 - December 11 - 2:00 amI have a 95 Contour with over 160,000 miles on. No major repairs done whatsoever. I push that thing to its limits every single day, and it doesnt seem to mind at all. Ive been in two accidents, both of which where the other vehicle was badly damaged, while my Contour has minor chipped paint and scatches. I ran over a median, popped two tires, bent two rims, but not a single other problem. The car didnt even need a wheel alignment. Its amazing what my Contour has put up with. I think my next car will be an SVT Contour.
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Ford Contour! Great CAR - 1998 Ford Contour
By Bmccrani - November 26 - 2:00 amIve really enjoyed owning this car and I would highly recommend a Contour to anyone looking for a great car. It runs 24/7 and never looks back. Ive had very minor repair issues after 64,000. I couldnt be happier.
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Im thinkin it rocks! - 1998 Ford Contour
By RandallRaines - November 24 - 2:00 amIm 17 and for me to be impressed says a lot. The 5-speed V-6 is sweet and I have yet to lose a light-to-light. It handles really well for a sedan and I can fit my guitar stuff and my skis in no problem plus a few friends. If you dont like it, buy a Cadillac, but for the money this is where its at.
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basic contour - 1998 Ford Contour
By hospitalmike - November 23 - 2:00 amdoor locks terrible, all stick or dont open correctly driver lock defective after 50k. replaced driver door open cable 2x after 60k. seat sliders stiff, hard to move forward & back.
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Do not buy this or any Ford Vehicle - 1999 Ford Contour
By Don Smith - November 23 - 2:00 amAt 22 years of age I purchased my first new car, a Ford Contour. Since then I have had nothing but problems both with the car and dealing with Ford. A quick summary of problems with the car: constant wind noise on the front passenger door, water leaks into the trunk, air conditioner went after 1 year, rattling noise while accelerating, clogged catalytic converter causing my damage to my exhaust manifold. In addition, dealing with Ford and any Ford Service dealer that I have brought my car to has been a nightmare.
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Why did they stop making it? - 1997 Ford Contour
By The bean counter - November 22 - 2:00 amSuper car. Liked it so much, I bought another one. I have been commuting 100 miles a day r/t for the past 7 yrs and have kept extensive maintenance records on all the cars Ive owned for the past 10 yrs. When I factor in all of the costs of ownership (incldg depreciation), this was the hands down winner. The one I just bought to replace it has the V-6, sunroof, and leather interior.
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Stranded twice - 1999 Ford Contour
By cardinalfan - November 22 - 2:00 amI love to drive this car and it handles well on the Autostadas here in Europe. Reliability is horrible, rear taillight had water in it after we puchased it which had to be replaced. The starter has gone out twice in 10 months. The first time it was only the starter, the second time it was the starter, flywheel and cables to the starter. The dash is peeling up and has not been fixed because dealerships here in Europe will not work on my car because it is American Specs. This is my last Ford and I have owned 2 other Ford trucks! Do not take an American made vehicle overseas if you can help it--It is more trouble than it is worth.
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Best College Car - 1995 Ford Contour
By ksukymmie - November 19 - 2:00 amI brought my Ford Contour in 1999 and still have it in 2002. I have only had one minor problem with it and that occured when the "Check Engine" light came on. For the entire four years, I only paid 400$ in repairs for this car. It is still in excellent condition and remains a great reliable vehicle. I recommend this car to anyone out there. Good luck in your search!
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Good Car for the Money - 1995 Ford Contour
By Spider3455 - November 14 - 2:00 amThis has been a pretty good car. Other than routine work, I have only had to have the Water Pump replaced about about 75000 miles. Starts up every time, runs smooth and gets good gas mileage. I like the value of the car. Power moonroof, quality leather, and premium sound have all been great. If you take care of this car, it will take care of you.
