My 98 Contour (base model) built 9/97 does not have a splash screen.
When I crawled under to look for the fog light harness, there was nothing between me and the horn. And I'm replacing the water pump now, and there's nothing between the spilling coolant and the bucket.
I don't know if it used to have one, or if it didn't come with one, I'd have to double check with the previous owner. Knowing the previous owner, I'd lean toward it never having had one.
