Reasons:
1. Compact size was outclassed, was OK for fall 1994, too small by 1999. Same thing happened to old Altima, Nissan had to "super size it" for 02.
2. Middle car got squeezed out by Taurus and Escort/Focus.
3. Most people don't get the concept of a Sport Sedan. "4 doors are family cars" is the common misconception.
4. Like with other Fords, too many bugs and recalls.
5. Fords dumping into fleets, too many end up for sale and cheap. good and bad. Cheap to get a used one, but bad resale for someone who bought brand new.
BTW: 1998+ have better cupholders.
