Contour Enthusiasts Group Archives Forums General General "comfort" mods

Hi,

I've a '97 GL MTX Zetec, and I drive it quite a lot (over 50k mi last year). So far it's the best car for long road trips I've ever had - I just love it.

Are there mods I can make in order to increase road comfort ? I think primarily of noise (I know, tires are #1, but what about engine - it's just fine around 70, but (for me) significantly louder over 85 - of course without compromising performance)

The other thing is fuel mileage - I'm quite happy with the 31-32MPG I get, but again, I'd be willing to shell out some money for long term gains.

Do you think a different exhaust would help ?

What about a chip ? They all claim to improve mpg vs the cost of higher octane fuel - I don't know if it'd be a gain or loss for long, near constant-load trips.

I know this is not the 'usual' mods wish list :p

Thanks,

Tivadar

I believe K&N air filters are "supposed" to increase fuel economy, I figure any gains aside, never having to pay for a new air filter again makes it worthwhile...

My "comfort" mod was to add padding to me driver seat for more support. The pre 98's had better bolsters and I got used to my old 97's seats. When I got my 2000 SE, I had a backache after two days and had to modify them.

Yeah, forgot to say, that's already in. I don't know about fuel economy (I've put it in immediately after buying the car), but the 50-100k service interval is nice though

T.