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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Why the Ford Contour is best for me... - 1996 Ford Contour
By Caroline Tapley - April 23 - 2:00 amThe Ford Contour had 40,000 miles on it when i purchased it. I have 3 kids, and they also loved our car. We do much running around because of the fact i am a mother of 3. All of them are in to sports. All three of them have practice on weekends and after school. So many miles have been put to the car. And is Still running just as strong and looks great and sounds great.
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electrical nightmare from hell - 2000 Ford Contour
By rjsindy - April 16 - 2:00 amthis car has been in the shop at least once a month for the last year with engine electrical problems. When I have asked the service writers if this is normal, their response is "thats why they stopped making them"
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Daily Driver - 1995 Ford Contour
By XCLNCE - April 15 - 2:00 amI have owned my contour for more than 3 years now and have never had a problem. The 2.5L V6 is an excellent engine with a matched 5spd manual transmission. It has a broad torque curve and will pull all the way to the redline if needed. I bought the car with 60k miles on it and am now at 118k. I have never had any problems with the car, and have driven cross country multiple times. I have been from San Francisco to New York, in 48 hours flat and have not been let down. If regular maintenance is performed on the car I can see these cars pushing over 200k with no problem.
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This car is great - 2000 Ford Contour
By ContourLover - April 14 - 2:00 amI have now owned my Contour for about a year and I have had the time of my life. My parents got it for me assuming it was a little wimpy Contour but they dont know what they got me. I love my car dearly it feels like I am driving a race car because it has such good low end torque and gives me good accel to race. Z28s Mustangs and other cars have a lot higher top speed but i have kept up with plenty of Mustangs off lights 0-50 and you dont get much of a chance to race higher than that with so many cops now. I have raced alot of cars and suprised them becasue they thought it was a lousy four banger but they got messed up for example aleros and stuff.
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Not bad! - 1998 Ford Contour
By GarysTour - April 14 - 2:00 amGoing to the dealership I had the thought of buying an import. This car has been a dream. The performance and value is A+++. The only problem Ive had is the sunroof getting stuck open, but the warranty covered it.
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A very good car for 2 people &children - 1997 Ford Contour
By Marco - April 9 - 2:00 amA very good car for 2 people &children
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Love my Contour - 1998 Ford Contour
By dcoach - April 9 - 2:00 amGreat performance for the price.
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Good Looks - 1999 Ford Contour
By Kid - April 3 - 2:00 amThe car is a fun little car to drive. It handles well looks goods. Only problem is that the engine could be a bit more punchy. So if you can get the SVT.
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Couldnt be happier with this car! - 1996 Ford Contour
By bockman - April 2 - 2:00 amThis car is excellent for students like myself. It offers decent fuel mileage, good comfort, performance and safety. I bought mine in August 01 and it had 194 ks. The first time I drove in it, I couldnt believe how peppy the 4 cylinder can be and how quiet it remains. I also love the smoothness of the 4 speed automatic transmission. Its main appeal is its handling. (Couldnt ask for better)
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1998 Contour SE - 1998 Ford Contour
By Fixxer - March 30 - 2:00 amI have owned this car for a since Feb. 2002, and its been reliable and fun to drive. This contour has the 2.5 V6, which is a fast, high-performance engine. Handles well, brakes great and most of all, it passes cars on the freeway with ease.
