1998 Ford Contour SVT review from North America
"Very peppy sedan that handles like a dream, though, it's still a Contour"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
No really big problems with the car. I have a squeak that comes from my back strut (stock struts on lowered springs, it's going to happen) and my front left wheel bearing is going. Nothing major!
The paint on my front bumper and hood is already failing. I've kept up with meticulous washing and waxing and polishing and while the rest of the car looks superb, the paint on the front bumper and hood is chipping like the car is twice its age.
Maybe the paint issue is just a one in a million flaw. I've never seen anyone else with it. The car still looks brilliant.
General comments?
The car is simply a blast to drive. It handles very well at high speeds and even has some off-throttle oversteer. Very fun to play around with.
The 195hp isn't modest either. I LOVE the sound of the exhaust. Doesn't sound like any other V6 I've heard before. Believe it or not, I've had people ask me if it's a V8. Doesn't sound like a V8 in my opinion, but it is definitely throaty and exhilarating.
I wish the interior was black. The blue is beginning to fade to a slight purple which isn't very attractive. The plastic interior and build of the car is somewhat cheap, but that's what you expect from a contour.
I expected lots of repairs buying a Ford. I've had nothing, but general maintenance at this point. The Contour SVT has held up to be VERY reliable.
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| A quick fun to drive car with good gas mileage |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model year | 1998 |
| Year of manufacture | 1998 |
| First year of ownership | 2005 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2006 |
| Engine and transmission | Duratec 2.5 Manual |
| Performance marks | 8 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 9 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 6 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 8 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 70000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 74000 miles |
| Date of Entry | 14th March, 2006 |