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What car did the Ford Contour replace?

The Ford Contour was a mid-size car that replaced the long-running Ford Tempo in the mid-1990s. The Contour was designed to be a more modern, European-inspired sedan that would appeal to a wider range of consumers compared to the more basic Tempo.


The Ford Tempo: A Reliable but Dated Predecessor


The Ford Tempo was first introduced in 1984 and was produced until 1994. It was a compact car that was known for its reliability and affordability, but it was also seen as somewhat dated and lacking in style and performance compared to its competitors.


The Ford Contour: A More Sophisticated Replacement


In 1995, the Ford Contour was introduced as a replacement for the Tempo. The Contour was designed to be a more modern, European-inspired mid-size sedan that would appeal to a wider range of consumers. It featured a more stylish exterior design, a more powerful engine, and a more sophisticated interior compared to the Tempo.


Key Differences Between the Tempo and Contour



  • Size and Styling: The Contour was larger and more visually appealing than the Tempo, with a more modern and European-inspired design.

  • Engine and Performance: The Contour offered more powerful engine options and better overall performance compared to the Tempo.

  • Interior and Features: The Contour had a more sophisticated and well-equipped interior, with more advanced features and technology compared to the Tempo.


Overall, the Ford Contour was a significant upgrade from the Tempo, offering a more modern and appealing mid-size sedan option for consumers in the mid-1990s.

What cars did Ford get rid of?


Ford Edge: This midsize SUV will no longer be part of Ford's lineup as the company shifts focus towards other segments and models. Ford Escape: Despite its popularity, the Escape will be phased out to make way for new innovations and models in the crossover category.



How many Ford Contours were made?


11,445
Ford SVT Contour

YearEngineProduction
1998.52.5 L Duratec 25 SVT V62,050
19992,760
20002,150
Total11,445



Are Ford contours rare?


The Ford SVT Contour was the rare sport sedan Ford pitted against the Germans and its specs aren't too bad today.



What is the Mercury equivalent to the Ford Contour?


The Ford Contour and Mercury Mystique have the same base engine power. Based on this comparison of the Ford Contour's and the Mercury Mystique's specifications and ratings, the Mercury Mystique is a better car than the Ford Contour.



What replaced the Ford Torino?


The Elite name was dropped after 1976 as the Ford mid-size range was restructured for the 1977 model year. The Thunderbird was dramatically reduced in size and price for 1977 by moving its nameplate to the Torino-based LTD II platform which was the restyled replacement for the Torino.



What's the rarest Ford in the world?


The 50 cars all in the teeth orange paintwork. The same as the original. There are some visual cues like the Saturn black spoiler.



What was the Ford Capri called in America?


From 1979 to 1986, the second generation Capri became part of the Mercury model line as a U.S. built pony car, a badge engineered variant of the contemporary Ford Mustang.



What car replaced the Ford Contour?


The Focus supplanted both Escort and Contour. Ford wanted the Kansas City plant to make Escapes and chickened out on bringing a new Contour based on the 2001+ Mondeo.



What car replaced the Ford Capri?


Although the Capri was not officially replaced, the second-generation Probe was effectively its replacement after the later car's introduction to the European market in 1994.



What is the Ford Mondeo called in the USA?


Ford Fusion


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.