Ford
Contour
Owner report available
Toyota
Camry
Owner report available
Ford Contour vs Toyota Camry
The short answer
Based on available data, the Toyota Camry comes out ahead of the Ford Contour on power and long-term reliability. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
Contour
Overall
Sentiment is mixed and heavily dependent on the specific model and powertrain. The standard models, particularly those with automatic transmissions, are associated with recurrent reliability issues including transmission failures, electrical problems, and check engine light concerns. These models are generally viewed unfavorably in long-term owner reports.
Best version to buy
Contour SVT (1998-2000): The high-performance variant is overwhelmingly recommended by enthusiasts. It is praised for its complete treatment as a sport sedan, with a more powerful and refined version of the 2.5L V6, significantly upgraded suspension, and a 5-speed manual transmission.
Known issues
- Automatic transmission failures: very frequent in standard models, cited as a primary reason for negative sentiment. Electrical problems / Check Engine Lights: recurrent issues causing various malfunctions.
Camry
Overall
Overwhelmingly positive sentiment centered on exceptional long-term reliability and low cost of ownership. The Camry is consistently cited as a benchmark for dependable, low-maintenance transportation capable of exceeding 200,000 miles with basic care. Owners across multiple generations report minimal major repairs, with many vehicles lasting 15-20 years or more.
Best version to buy
Camry Hybrid. The hybrid powertrain is strongly recommended for its combination of superior fuel economy, smoother and quieter operation, and the renowned reliability of Toyota's hybrid system.
Known issues
- Oil consumption in specific model years (notably the 2007 model year): isolated but noted as a known issue for certain generations. Frequency: isolated.
- High-mileage wear items (e.g., EVAP system codes, ABS sensors, TPMS sensors): expected issues on very high-mileage vehicles (150,000+ miles). Frequency: recurrent.
The verdict
The Toyota Camry is the better choice for most buyers.
It has stronger reliability sentiment in owner reports than the Ford Contour, based on the data above. If the specific known issues on the Toyota Camry are a dealbreaker, the Ford Contour is worth a closer look instead.
Explore further
Common problems by model year
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Ford Contour or the Toyota Camry?
Owner reports lean more positive on reliability for the Toyota Camry than the Ford Contour. See the known issues comparison above for the specific concerns owners report on each.
Which is better for families, the Ford Contour or the Toyota Camry?
Data on family-specific factors like cargo space is limited for one or both models, but based on available reports, both are positioned as practical daily drivers. Check the specs table above for seating and body type.
Which has better fuel economy, the Ford Contour or the Toyota Camry?
The EPA rates the 2000 Ford Contour at 21–25 mpg combined and the 2026 Toyota Camry at 43–51 mpg, depending on the version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Ford Contour or the Toyota Camry?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the Toyota Camry than the Ford Contour. See the known issues comparison above.