I think what you're talking about is completely different cars. Ford definitely could have ran SVTs on the same line as regular Contours and probably did, I haven't heard definite fact what was done.
98.5 SVT
91 Escort GT (almost sold)
96 ATX Zetec (i brake to watch you swerve)
FS: SVT rear sway bar
WTB: Very cheap beater
CEG Dragon Run - October 13-15