You got to remember the Contour was designed to replace the Tempo, which replaced the Fairmont, which replaced the Maverick, which replaced the Falcon. Not exactly a family lineage known for quality or performance. As far as Mystiques go, Mercury products have always been marketed towards the senior citizen set. Mercury is Ford's answer to Buick and will never be a hip brand.

-Mark- '99 Mystique LS, totally original (including the original water pump and the premium stereo)! Bought new in December 1998 for $21,000. 208,000 miles