1995-2000 Ford Contour: Road Test

Smooth, responsive, and lively in acceleration, the 170-horsepower V6 is more than adequate for all ordinary driving situations. During testing, a V6 Contour accelerated to 60 mph in 9.3 seconds. The 190-horsepower SVT engine is even more powerful, but you really have to work the transmission to get the extra power. By contrast, the noisy 4-cylinder engine feels sluggish when going uphill and requires a heavy throttle foot for brisk acceleration. A V6 Contour with automatic averaged 21.7 mpg. Under similar conditions, the 4-cylinder with automatic did only a little better: 23 mpg, to be exact. Road noise has been prominent on all models. Precise steering, sporty handling, and a firm ride make a Contour feel more German than American. Most road-testers praised the sporty SE, in particular, for its fun-to-drive qualities, though a few were less enthusiastic about its ride quality. Front leg room is ample, but back-seat space for adults is barely adequate in 1995 Contours. That shortage of space was slightly improved in '96 models, but remains a drawback. Head room is generous in front and adequate in back. The modern, attractive dashboard is well-designed, but the stereo has too many small buttons that are difficult to decipher. Large gauges are easy to read. The climate system is controlled by three rotary dials that are clearly labeled and easy to use.

Value for the Money
Ford took a huge step forward in performance, refinement, and overall execution with its compact sedan. All told, Contour is a formidable rival to Japanese compacts and to the Chrysler Cirrus and Dodge Stratus.