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Engineering: The Mystique, Contour, Mondeo, and the new Cougar are all built from the same platform, the CDW-27. This platform was designed by Ford studios around the world to be the best compact sedan in every market in which it was to be sold. Considering the fact that this platform is marketed in nearly every modern country in the world, that was a pretty tall order. However, according to international press, they have largely succeeded. The only real design flaw marring their effort is a slightly cramped back seat. I never spend any time back there, so it wasn't a big deal to me. *NOTE* Yes, I know that picture isn't a Mystique. It's actually a Ford Contour SVT, the hi-po cousin to the Mystique. |
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Basic Layout: I had to have a 4 door sedan. Why? I just did.
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Performance: I also had to have sporty performance and a 5 speed transmission. Again, why, you might ask? If you do, you're at the wrong page.
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Lack of competition: Don't get me wrong. There are lots of sporty sedans out there. I considered many other cars before settling on the Mystique. Among them were the Nissan Maxima, Volkswagen Jetta GLX, Acura Integra GS-R, BMW 325i, and others. When the dust settled, the Mystique came out on top. It was the only one in my price range that was still available with a V6 (or whatever the top engine in that car happened to be). To me, the Mystique offered the best combination of value and performance. Of course, I could have got a Contour for about the same price, but I figured if I was going to be this different, I might as well go all the way. |
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 "There goes $125! Get him!" |
Stealth: Which do you think the cops will go after first? A red Integra, A silver BMW, or a black "my Grandma drives one of those" Mystique? I know what the answer is. Just don't ask how I found out...;-) |
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