Welcome TO CEG!
I live north of Asheville in the Weaverville/Mars Hill area. I have had my Zetec MTX Contour since November 1999 & I love it. I have an older Cougar at home - an '88 with the 5.0 V8 - too bad it needs a trainy! It was a nice car.
I've begun autcrossing with my Contour this season too, handles well! Your Cougar would do even better probably. If you like to drive for fun, consider coming out for an autocross, yes there are lady drivers there too! Check out their site at
Highlands Sports Car Club. The next event is this Tuesday, tomorrow, at the WNC Ag. Center. It begins around 7 with registration at 5:30. I've seen some Cougars there and at least one Contour before.
Enjoy your Cougar!
Don