Contour Enthusiasts Group Archives Forums General General New Contour owner...

I've just started my second week of owning a 1998 Contour GL Zetec MTX (black and tan). Here are some overall impressions of the car, as a way of introducing myself to the group.

I fell in love with the car on a test drive. It reminded me immediately with the Ford Fiesta that I lamented parting with in the late eighties. WOnderfull handling, shifting, feel to the controls. The Zetec suprised me a bit by having pretty nice torque of the line. I suspect it is because it is a long stroke engine. This was a pleasant suprise for a 16V four. Overall the interior seems well appointed for a stripper, nice materials and a comfortable pair of buckets.

I also have a few nitpicking complaints, but not a lot in light of a 4 year old car with 50K on the clock. The door locks are very picky. THe heat gauge registers intermittently. (anyone know where the sensor is?) The stereo is an ergonomic nightmare. ( This will be the first thing to go)

Overall, I am very pleased with the car, and for $5800, a pretty good deal. I was considering a new Zetec Focus, but with the budget of being a seminary student, this was a better fit. Besides, I think the contour is better looking, and better proportioned.

I'm glad to see there are a bunch of folks on the net who like the car as well.

Rob Kopp

Welcome to the CEG, Rob. I don't know how much you have perused the forums and/or site here, but there is much valuable information to be had here. Feel free to pipe up with any questions you might have about your car, and someone will likely be able to help.

That said, I couldn't tell you where your sensors are, but hopefully someone will chime in with an answer.

Again, welcome.

Sincerely,

Rob,
Welcome also from me, a new CEG'er who bought my first Contour Jan. 21. I used to have a Fiesta in the 80s, and have a Festiva now. Great little car. But the TOUR!!! Like ridin in the lap of luxury. Mine is 7 yrs old but only had 36,000 on it (old lady driver). I got a great deal, too. Hope you're enjoying your "new" car as much as I love mine. Read the FAQ, read "Problems" on the forum; there's a lot of help for us non-mechanics.

No kidding, isn't that a piece of crap? Head down to Car Audio and we will set you up with anything you need! Welcome!

If I get the car I am trying for I'll trade you radios.

I am used to the ford one and the contour I have an offer on has an aftermarket w/cd in it...I really dont want to learn how to use it I'd rather have the standard one.