The IAC is definitely my nemesis...I replaced the IAC on my '95 twice, and the one on my '97 is not great but not intolerable.
But as far as pros go, I simply don't think you can get a sedan with a V6, manual transmission, and the handling at anywhere near the price point that you get with the Contour. The interior is well laid out and logical, the size of the car is a nice balance between reasonable utility, comfort, and compactness. The body looks good in full-on SVT dress, but also without any add-ons except a decent set of 16"+ rims.
