I've given up trying to explain the difference between a standard Contour and the SVT. I simply say I drive a contour.
What makes up for all the stupid questions is the odd occasion when someone approaches you and they ooh and ahh the car.
It always comes at the most expected times. While sitting at a stoplight an old chev p/u pulls up behind me, in the front passenger seat, a kid not more than 10. He starts pointing, smiling, and chatting with his dad. They followed me to the local mall and the kid got out and asked me all sorts of questions. He really knew his stuff.
I just think of that story everytime I get a dumb question. Puts a smile on my face.
Cheers