I have an MTX tranny so that is not an issue right there.
its not legal as far as I know to put in an older engine then what you have...so that rules out a 95 engine anyway. Plus its ODB1.
I was looking on car-parts.com and LKQ and I have not seen any 96-2000 Contour zetecs for less than $450...most are in the $600-$800 range.
Where are you guys seeing engines for $350? Unless you are looking up shortblocks...in which case I can't get that because my current head needs work.