Simplicity often is best.
For instance, the
1998 Ford Contour GL model with the base four-cylinder engine and optional automatic transmission is a pretty decent package.
At $14,645, the GL is much less costly than the $17,535 Contour SE V-6, which is the regular top-line Contour model. And it's far less expensive than the limited-production $22,365 SVT Contour that comes from Ford's elite Special Vehicle Team.
Actually the base Contour lists at only $13,460. That's a good price, but Ford says few order that model because it lacks GL items such as an upgraded console with armrest and cloth door-trim panels.
The 125-horsepower GL won't hit 143 m.p.h. like the SVT Contour with its modified, 195-horsepower V-6. But most won't care; the humbler GL is just fine for at least 90 percent of daily Chicago area driving. And there are a Ford-claimed 103 improvements to all 1998 Contour models, including slicker front and rear styling and expanded rear-seat room.
The front-drive Contour mainly is bought as a four-door family sedan, with many young families and young couples as customers. Thus, 70 percent of buyers order the Contour with the $815 automatic transmission.
The best acceleration and economy are provided by the standard five-speed manual transmission because the GL's 2-liter four-cylinder isn't overly large, and automatic transmissions work best with bigger engines. But most buyers of compact sedans such as the Contour want the convenience of an automatic.
The four-speed automatic is a good unit; it upshifts smoothly and downshifts crisply for good response when quick acceleration is called for.
There's little difference in fuel economy with the manual or automatic. The four-cylinder/manual combination provides an estimated 24 m.p.g. in the city and 33 on highways, while the numbers are 23 and 32 with the automatic. Options won't clean out your wallet with the new Contour GL because it has a fair amount of standard items, including power steering, reclining front seats, tilt steering wheel, console, dual outside mirrors and AM/FM radio. However, the $600 anti-lock brake system is a good idea, and most will want the $795 air conditioning.
And just try to comfortably get through a Chicago winter without a rear-window defogger, which comes in a $1,065 GL option package that includes air conditioning and power outside mirrors.
For buyers who feel disappointed that they are forced to trade in a sportier car for the more utilitarian Contour, this Ford is offered with a $680 Sport option package, which includes fairly wide 60-series tires on larger alloy wheels, leather-wrapped steering wheel, tachometer and fog lamps.
The 170-horsepower V-6, which is standard in the Contour SE, is smoother and quieter than the GL four-cylinder.
But the ``four'' is nothing to sneeze at; it's sophisticated, with dual overhead camshafts and four valves per cylinder, and provides surprisingly lively performance--even with the automatic.
The 1998 version of the four-cylinder has been stiffened to reduce vibration. Still, this engine is fairly noisy when pushed and often calls for a heavy throttle foot to get the best acceleration.
The Contour is derived from Ford's sharp-reflexed European Mondeo model, so even the GL benefits from ``Euro-style'' quick, precise steering and above-average handling and braking. This car is fun to drive. ``Contour buyers want a vehicle that balances their need for a practical four-door with their desire for a fun, youthful and subtly sophisticated car,'' said Ford brand manager Brian Miller.
The 1998 model has a softer ride than its predecessor because Ford finally realized than most American buyers of small sedans don't like too firm a ride. However, although comfortable, the ride is far from mushy.
The Contour has a fairly long 106.5-inch wheelbase, but still provides only acceptable rear-seat space for two tall occupants--although front seatbacks have been sculpted for more kneeroom and rear seats have been reshaped and repositioned a bit. Front seat room is pretty good in the generally quiet interior, and the attractive dashboard contains smooth-working switches and controls within easy reach.
Pop open the trunk lid and you'll be greeted by a large cargo area with a low opening for easy loading.
For the money, the Contour GL has lots of star quality.