98 and 98.5 (IIRC) had a 2 bolt, spring connection. After that it changed to a 3 bolt, standard connection with a flex pipe.

So you having a 00, will be fine.

Tony 1998 SVT Contour (B/MB) #542 3L 1998 SVT Contour (SF/MB) #1266 parts car 2000 SVT Contour (SF/MB) #1533 3L swap to begin!