In reality, the Contour and Mystique share nearly all structural and powertrain elements. Aside from their different front and rear body panels and some small differences in interior design, the two cars are very much alike.The Mystique's exterior is clean and contemporary. Its wide wheel stance gives it a cab-forward look, the design discipline made famous by Chrysler. The cowl and hood are low, creating a sleek profile. The Mystique is available with a choice of two all-new engines: a base 125-hp 2.0-liter 4-cylinder and a spirited 2.5-liter V6. The transmissions - a standard 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic - are also new. The Mystique comes in two models: GS and the upscale LS. Our test car was an LS with an automatic. In size, the Mystique falls into the smaller end of the broad midsize class, with dimensions that are very similar to the Honda Accord. However, the top of the Mystique price range falls well short of what you'd pay for a similarly equipped Accord or Toyota Camry. In the case of our V6-powered test car, the manufacturer's suggested retail price - $19,690 - is about $5000 south of a V6 Camry or Accord. Although the Contour and Mystique are more expensive than the cars they replaced - the Ford Tempo and Mercury Topaz - they're still competitively priced. And they're much better cars.
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