The Taurus trans is completely different. It probably won't fit in a Copntour. It isn't a great trans either, but it is stronger, as it is also used with the SHO and the V8 Continental.
The Escape uses the same trans as the Contour. It isn't really that much different than the Contour trans. Our resident Contour auto trans expert (unisis12) hasn't posted for a while, but he could probably help you learn how to get the most out of it. Just don't expect too much, especially if you are likely to abuse it.
