Cars - Ford Contour

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	Cars - Ford Contour

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.

Overview

1995

Ford introduced the Contour into North America in late 1994 for 1995 to replace the aging Tempo and provide a modern sedan that could slot in between the Escort and the larger Taurus. A Mercury version called the Mystique was introduced at the same time to fill the gap between the Tracer and Sable models, as well as replace the Mercury Topaz. It was somewhat larger than the Tempo, which it succeeded, but was only available as a sedan. By contrast, the Mondeo was also available as a hatchback and station wagon.

Three trim levels were available; a base GL, a more luxurious LX and a sporty SE trim. A 125 hp, 2.0 L Zetec I4 engine was standard equipment on GL and LX models, while a 170 hp 2.5 L Duratec V6 was optional; the V6 was standard on SE models. 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.

1996-1997

Ford made minor styling revisions to the model for 1996, primarily deleting the chrome inserts from the front and rear bumpers.

1998-2000

A restyled version debuted for 1998 with a revised front fascia, featuring a chrome grille and larger headlights. Interior rear legroom was also increased. An SVT model was added, utilizing a tuned version of the V6 producing 200 hp and featuring new bodywork, seats and trim (including white-faced gauges), larger wheels with upgraded tires, upgraded brakes and a retuned suspension. Slow sales in later model years prompted Ford to cut back production of the Contour, and the GL model was dropped leaving the LX, SE and SVT models. The SVT version was available primarily by special order, as most dealers did not stock them.

Ford dropped the model from their American lineup in 2000 and converted the production line in Kansas City, Missouri to the manufacture of the Escape.

Awards

The Contour was on Car and Driver magazine's Ten Best list for 1995, 1996 and 1997.

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