1997 Ford Contour GL review from North America

Reclining Seat Adjustment knob broke.

We have had our 97 Contour GL since July of 97. It was a Ford program Car... what ever that means, and had about 9000 miles when we bought it. I have the GL with the 4 cylinder engine.

It now has almost 70000 miles, and the ONLY money we have spent on the car was for brakes at 58000, and tires. My wife drives this car every day. It has NEVER left her stranded and always starts immediately. I think it handles great, and long trips are very comfortable and gas mileage on the road is almost 30 mpg... and this is doing at least 75 mph.

I cannot believe that Ford decided not to continue producing this car in the US. It is a well balance car that handles very very good. I have read other reviews about some problems people had with their vehicles, and cannot believe this.

The only problem I had was the seat back adjuster knob that turns to recline the drivers seat. This broke and I am awaiting the replacement. The timing belt makes a little noise when it is cold, but soon quiets up. We also own a New VW CAbrio, a 2000 Grand Cherokee, and a 43k miles 1970 TBird Landau.