As it says in my signature, my wife won hers new in fall of '94. They were just out and all of the automotive press was talking about Ford's 6 BILLION $$$$ car and Jackie Stewart consulting on the handling.
To my mind it's one of the best cars Ford ever built. It still has a very European feel to it, even 12 years later. Solid construction, firm but not harsh suspension, fabulous handling, firm supportive seats, convenient size, etc. But the best part is the engine package. I still love to put my foot in it and surprise other drivers. (And that's just with the standard 2.5 L V6 w/ slushbox.)
The second best part is, hardly anyone seems to know what it is. Shine it up a bit and know one knows that it's a 12 year old car.
It was having some niggling problems (warped disks (again), CEL, oil leak, CEL, water pump shaft leak, CEL, carpet pulling out from under the sills, CEL, etc.) so I said "how about a new car, honey?" Well, I don't know if it was just the thought of car payments after all these years, but she let me know in no uncertain terms that she loved her little Contour and she didn't want a new car.
Fine, then I'm going to update the little sucker, I said. And so it starts. The truth is, I love the little sucker myself.
Now, having said all that, what I'd really like to do is replace it with an SE twin. If anyone knows of one, this is what I'm looking for:
- '95 SE w/ 5 spd.
- Midnight Red w/ Opal Grey leather
- moon roof
- A/C, light group, power seats
- prefer factory CD player & remote keyless entry
Of course low miles and factory fresh (like BeyondloadedSE's new SVT - sweet!). Rust belters need not apply. I'm willing to wait for the right car, will pay top dollar and pick up anywhere. What can I say, I love these little cars and besides, that's the only thing that would make my wife let go of the one she's got now!
ps: thanks, CEG, for being a great community and adding to the enjoyment of these great little cars!