Definitely go manual, better gas mileage, more power, and a lot more fun. I can't comment on reliability because I don't pay much attention to posts about problems with the ATX in the Contiques, but the MTX is decent enough, 3rd gear synchro issues I've heard, someone else will chime in with more I'm sure (maybe discuss the weak open diff. but it's not a big issue if you don't push it too much). What reasons are you looking at getting a Contique for? Do you want a reliable and cheap daily driver, or do you want to mod it later? Basically, I'm asking if power is a big concern for you, again I can't comment on the Zetec because I've never driven one, but the Duratec is a great engine and has enough power for those who just want a DD that can climb hills well, pass cars with ease on the highway, and get decent gas mileage to boot. Driving a manual can take a little getting used too, I drove my brothers V6 5-speed Contour about 2 years before I got mine, only drove it once and for about half an hour. The next time I drove a manual was on my way to work 10 minutes after my brother drove mine home from where I bought it 2 years later. I picked it up in the next few weeks, but at first it was kind of frustrating, just take your time, practice somewhere safe, a good idea is to have someone who knows how to drive a manual come with you, drive the car to a large empty parking lot, and then drive around it for a little bit until you feel comfortable enough, and take it out on the road. I was taught this way, and I taught 2 of my friends how to do it in my car, and they picked it up in no time at all! And welcome, I hope you decide to get a Contique and enjoy it as much as I enjoy mine! Don't give up the search for a manual V6 if you want it, my brother didn't find one for 4 months! Good luck!
