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:

• 

  Steer Clear - 1996 Ford Contour
  By odie561 - September 11 - 2:00 am

  Steer clear of this Ford contraption. It was nothing but trouble since we bought it. We had to replace two alternators, a power steering pump, and would have had to replace a transmission if we had kept it about 5 minutes more.

• 

  wasted money - 1998 Ford Contour
  By ohwell - July 31 - 2:00 am

  Nothing but problems. Nothing but money on top of money. If you are going to buy this car second-hand you have about a 25% chance of getting one thats good. $3500 in 2 yrs and in need another $1200 more. 2 alternators, rack and pinion, etc. I dumped mine. I wouldnt even sell it to another human being.

• 

  Watch out, it might implode!!! - 1995 Ford Contour
  By Ford Hater - April 15 - 2:00 am

  I got this car from my mother when I was in a bit of a tight spot for transportation. Now I know why she wanted to get rid of it. V6 5speed was fun to drive and I nearly drove the engine right out of it. Fortunately I had it in for new front stuts and they found that the engine was missing 5 of the 8 mounting bolts. Over the ensuing months it lost the alternator, water pump, wheel bearings, and the check engine light keeps comming on (which leaves my mechanic at a loss.)

• 

  Fix Or Repair Daily - 1997 Ford Contour
  By rjs66 - March 8 - 2:00 am

  My wife bought this and it is been trouble from early on. At 7k miles, the tranny started leaking fluid. 6-7 recalls. Poor acceleration. After about 30-35k miles, it started idling horribly, sounding like it would stall, and it even did several times. At 45k it sucked $250 in repairs, a couple months later, $500, and a couple months later, at 50k miles, it would have been $1200 after it was determined that the O2 sensors, computer and 5 other things were faulty, but I declined to fix it and got rid of it. I will never buy Ford. I would only recommend buying a used one if it is for a high schoolers first beater car.

• 

  DONT BUY A 96 CONTOUR!! - 1996 Ford Contour
  By HateMyCar96 - December 30 - 2:00 am

  I had nothing but problems with this car after it hit 50,000 miles!! First the drivetrain and then the radiator and the water pump and then the wheel cylinders whet bad! Dont buy a 96 contour unless you enjoy constant aggervation and automotive problems!

• 

  Biggest mistake of my life! - 1995 Ford Contour
  By im done - November 30 - 2:00 am

  i bought this car for $5,000 a few years ago and since then have put close to $6,000 into it in repairs alone, not to mention regular maintenance. 3 months after i bought it, the water pump, AC compressor, serpentine and timing belts went out (along with a host of other things) and a few months after that, it happened again. I have not gone more than 3 months without this car costing me at least $400 in repairs. Most recently, the entire central computer needed to be replaced along with the 3rd water pump and all new belts (for the 3rd time) to the tune of nearly $1000.

• 

  Lemon - 1999 Ford Contour
  By mlosasso - September 4 - 2:00 am

  I bought this car used with 400 miles on it. Two engines and $6,000 later, it is still (barley) going. My mechanic, as well as my independent research online, tell me that this car had serious issues and should have had recalls associated with the engine. In lieu of this, I plan to drive it as long as it will go to get my moneys worth, if possible.

• 

  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!!!

• 

  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!