I think that the resonators are absent on 98 and up contours, mystiques and cougars. I went to the nearby Ford dealer and ordererd that accordian tubing from a 98 mystique, it just replaced the whole thing. If you just take it off it will probably leave a big hole that you will have to tape shut or something.

97 Ford Contour GL ATX 2.0L Zetec.
-KKM intake
-Tube behind MAF from 98
-Spraypainted grill silver
-SE spoiler
-Removed resonator muffler
-Wrecked
-Sold to Carmax

96 Jeep Cherokee Country ATX 4.0L I6 4x2.
-K&N FIPK cold air intake
-Jardine cat back exhaust
-APC halogen H-4 diamond series headlights w/sylvania cool blues
99 Dodge Avenger Sport ATX 2.5L V6.
-K&N drop in air filter
-http://www.Asog.net/ Sort of like Contour.org but for Avenger fans.