Hello All -
Well, it just might be time for me to replace my 96 SE. I'm thinking of a new Subaru WRX (they are *fun* to drive!), so I'm wondering what people here think would be a fair price for my Contour (which has also been a lot of fun). Here's the deal:
96 SE, leather, air, auto (yeah, I know most of you probably won't like that, and I'm probably going back to a stick myself), sunroof, 6cd changer, upgraded head end, remote keyless entry. 105K miles, exterior good (very minor ding), interior quite good, but drivers seat a bit worn (hey, I've sat there for 105,000 miles!). No kids, so the back seats are pretty nice :-). "Champagne" color exterior and interior (semi-metallic tan or sandstone to most people).
Engine is still quite strong (in fact, it still seems as strong as the day I got it), with no problems. Here's what's been worked on: 3 water pump replacements (1st one at 65K, second at 70K, 3rd at 72k, grrr.) but the last one seems to be holding up well. All 3 cats replaced at ~80K. All belts and hoses replaced at around 85-90K (don't quite recall exactly) as a preventive measure only. Auto tranny rebuilt (NOT by ford) at 102K) and is working fine - revalved for quicker shifts. Rear bumper replaced after 2 minor fender-benders (but had another minor hit afterwards anyway - paint on bumper split but I didn't replace it). The 1st and 3rd fender-benders were *quite* slow speed and did no damage other than disfiguring the bumper, the second did require some minor body work on the drivers rear quarter panel, but it looks flawless now. Otherwise completely stock (well, I've got highbeam bulbs in the lowbeam headlights :-)
Majority of the miles are highway miles. Never raced, even informally, it's just been my daily driver. Regular oil and filter changes (every 3-5K miles).
I know I won't get as much from the dealer as a private party, but might go that route just for simplicity. Unless someone here is interested?
thanks, and I'll be sorry to leave the Contour ranks, but the WRX just drives too nice! and the 'tour is getting a little long in the tooth.
Oh, and I'm the original and sole owner.
