1991 Ford Contour Concept Coupe

This vehicle is a 1991 Ford Contour Concept Car and described by Ford vice-president of Design, J. Mays, as one of the most significant in Ford's recent history. This car is fitted with many unique features that challenge conventional thinking, inspire innovation, and challenged the stylists and engineers.

The power produced by the transverse inline eight-cylinder engine is sent to the front wheels through a unique 'T-Drive' system, invented and patented for Ford by Donald Carriere. Cooling to the engine is provided by feeding air from the wheels wells from the front wheels into the engine bay and thus, reducing turbulence and improving the vehicles aerodynamic features.

The body is equally as interesting, created from a chemically bonded modular aluminum structure invented by Ford and Reynolds Aluminum. The body panels form composite structures incorporating polyurethane and polyurea plastics with metal framing. The name 'Contour' is rather appropriate, as the body does not possess a single flat line or panel.

The interior continues the definition of 'concept', with the pedal cluster, controls, instrument panel and steering wheels fixed in place and power adjustable to adapt to different drivers. The front bench seats are an integral part of the body and chassis structure.

The lighting was developed by General Electric that uses a fiber optic network to form a single Light Engine light source.

This concept does not have a working drive-train. To open the left door, a keypad entry system must be employed. The right side doors are fixed. The hood opens revealing the mockup T-Drive and the front wheels steer using a cable box and electric motors. The tires are custom-treaded show tires and the wheels are made of plastic. The exterior is finished in dark Sapphire Pearl with a light blue leather trimmed interior.

This vehicle was brought to the 2007 Monterey Sports & Classic Car Auction presented by RM Auctions, where it had an estimated value of $75,000 - $100,000. It was offered without reserve, which worked well for the buyer who purchased the car for a high bid of $33,000 including buyer's premium.

By Daniel Vaughan | Dec 2007