Ford Contour
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{{Infobox Automobile
|image=Image:FordContour.jpg
|name=Ford Contour
|manufacturer=Ford Motor Company
|production=1995–2000
|class=Mid-size
|body_style=4-door sedan
|predecessor=Ford Tempo
|platform=FF CDW27
|related=Ford/Mercury Cougar
Ford Mondeo
Mercury Mystique
|similar=Dodge Stratus
Honda Accord
Nissan Altima
Chevrolet Malibu
}}
The Ford Contour was a North American variant of the European Ford Mondeo sedan sold by Ford. It was sold in North America from 1995 through 2000. The platform also underpinned a Mercury version called Mystique and the 1999 to 2002 iteration of the Mercury Cougar.
Contents |
Overview
Ford introduced the Contour to the North American market in 1995 to replace the aging Tempo. Development of the Contour, the nearly identical Mercury Mystique and the Mondeo in Europe was a major project for Ford Motor Company; reportedly US$6 billion was invested in the development of the CDW27 platform. The Contour filled the market and size gap between the Escort and the larger Taurus. The Contour was slightly larger than the Tempo and was only available as a sedan. By contrast, the European Mondeo was available as a hatchback and a wagon.
Initially, three trim levels were available; a base GL, a more luxurious LX and a sporty SE trim. A 125 hp, 2 liter Zetec inline four cylinder engine was standard with GL and LX models, while a 170 hp 2.5 L Duratec V6 was standard on SE models and optional on the LX model. A 5-speed manual transmission was standard on all models, with a 4-speed automatic as an option. Prices ranged from about US$14,000 for base GL versions to just under US$20,000 for an SE with all available options.
Image:Ford Contour 1998.JPG In 1998, Ford restyled the Contour and added the SVT version, which utilized a specially tuned and modified version of the 2.5 liter V6 that produced 195 horsepower and was only available with a 5-speed manual transmission. Also included with the SVT Contour was new bodywork, seats and trim, white-faced gauges, larger wheels with ultra high performance tires, upgraded brakes and a retuned suspension. Slowing sales in later model years prompted Ford to cut back production of the Contour, and by 2000 only the SE model and the SVT version remained. The SVT Contour was available primarily by special order by specially designated Ford dealerships. Production of the Contour ended in 2000.
Year-to-Year Revisions
1995 to 1996
- To address customer complaints, the backs of the front seats were recessed, improving rear seat leg room.
- Rear seat cushions were repositioned to increase room.
- Chrome bumper strips were dropped, resulting in bumpers that were solidly colored.
- Seven-spoke alloy wheels become standard for SE model.
- Split rear seats now available.
1996 to 1997
- New value-priced base model introduced in late 1997.
- Traction control is dropped as an option.
- Added interior trunk light.
- Steering wheels now tilt.
- Power antenna added.
- Heated mirrors are dropped as an option.
- Remote fuel door release is dropped.
1997 to 1998
- New design for front and rear end, including a chrome grille and larger headlights.
- 5-speed manual transmission changed from rod shift to cable shift.
- High-performance SVT version debuts, available only in Silver Frost with Midnight Blue interior.
- Roof line altered and the rear deck shortened for improved rear seat headroom.
- Seat recliner is changed from a knob to a lever.
- Seatbelt for rear center seat is improved from 2-point to 3-point.
- New center consoles.
- Glove box light, under hood light, and door handle lights are removed.
In mid-production for the 1998 model, Ford decided to make several more changes to the Contour line. This resulted in a noticeable distinction between early and late 1998 Contours. To differentiate between the two, many people refer to the late 1998 model as the "1998.5", or alternatively refer to the early 1998 model as the "E0" and the late 1998 model as the "E1". The mid-year changes are as listed below.
- Base and GL models are dropped, leaving the LX, SE, and SVT.
- Split rear seats are now available only on the SE model.
- In-dash clock is relocated to the stereo head unit display.
- New Cobra-style SVT aluminum alloy wheels
1998 to 1999
- All models are equipped with a slightly larger fuel tank.
- SVT engine gains 5 hp and is now rated at 200 hp.
1999 to 2000
- LX model is dropped, leaving only the SE and SVT.
- Displacement on the V6 engine decreased slightly, but compression ratio is increased to compensate.
Awards
The Contour was on Car and Driver magazine's Ten Best list for 1995, 1996 and 1997. The Contour was also named as an Automobile Magazine All Star for 1995, 1996 and 1997.
See also
References and source data
- [1] - ConsumerGuide.com Ford Contour 1995-2000 Prices & Review - (compares to Honda Accord)
External links
- FordContour.Org: Non-profit organization A website / forum site dedicated to Ford Contour and Mercury Mystique vehicles. Vast knowledgebase including on-site technical assistance from a semi-retired engineer of the car itself. An invaluable asset to any owner looking for help or fellow enthusiasts of this model.
- Ford Contour Enthusiast Group: Non-profit organization with information on the origins of the Contour, as well as specifications, model-specific details, and information targeted at owners of the vehicle.