Not all ABS systems include EBD (electronic brake distribution). EBD is an enhancement of ABS. If I remember correctly, Volvo added EBD in 1999. I remember a customer who did not like the noise his new Volvo sometimes made on hard breaking that his two year older Volvo did not make.
My 98 E0 SVT does not have EBD. If EBD was added to later Contiques, or even only SVT's, I'll have to take your word for it. Mine does have rear pressure reducing valves (although the part number is different from non ABS cars). I don't remember seeing anything about EBD in Ford products until the launch of the Lincoln LS.
EBD is a good thing in that it can take several factors in determining proper rear braking force so that under some conditions it can use the rear brakes much more agressively. Think of it as a continusly variable proportioning valve.
My experience with ABS is that as long as the tire size remains close to the factory size the system still works great. The Lincoln LS owner that complained of ABS problems with 22" wheels and much larger diameter tires did have a self inflicted problem. Tires that are not as sticky seem to make the ABS come on more easily while tires that are very sticky seem to make the ABS harder to invoke (which is a good thing). Think of ABS as your emergency friend. When it does come on, it just might save your life. It is better still to try to stay out of those life threatening situations. I see no benefit in trying to make the ABS come on any easier.
I really don't know all the answers here, but this is my $.02 contribution.
