02-16-2004, 03:42 PM
ViPER1313 Wrote:RedNight351 Wrote:All great ideas thanks...
BUt how about this...
1998 Ford Contour SVT
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That websites has engine etc specs....
I found one of those in my price range
My uncle used to own one - decently fast (can chirp the tires in second), handles great, and decently rare now as well. Also, as an added perk, Ford invites SVT owners to race their cars once a year (I forget where, and I don't know if this is transferable from one owner to the next.) My uncle's car was reliable, but my neighbors Contour SVT had the clutch go out at 60k miles (not a huge deal IMO, but he made a huge stink about it and sold the car shortly afterwards...) Good choice IMO.
I looked at the SVT Contour awhile ago and on paper its a pretty good car. That particular chassis was lauded at the time to be one of the best that Ford ever made and was the basis of the British Touring Car Championship winning Mondeos in 2001.
The problems you may have are a weak aftermarket and a relatively chincy car overall. I guess I've been spoiled by Bimmers and Hondas but I didn't find the Contour to be put togther particularly well. Performance wise it doesn't give up a whole lot to some of the other cars mentioned but I'd have to say that if you're looking for a 4 door the 325 is a better choice and if you're going to go FWD I'd say the GS-R is a better choice. Now if you want 4 doors and FWD then the Contour is your ticket. Really, stock for stock I can't knock the Contour.
If you plan to be driving the car hard at autocrosses and open tracking it then I'd probably go for one of the more proven commodities. If not, then I'd say have at it.