Overview & Reviews

For more than 100 years now, Ford Motor Company has been selling mass-produced automobiles in the United States and around the globe. Known as one of the Big Three American manufacturers, Ford has attracted millions of loyal customers with a wide range of vehicles that offer considerable value. The automaker's trucks and SUVs have been especially popular. For decades, Ford's F-Series truck has been the best-selling vehicle in America.

The company was founded by Henry Ford in 1903. Ford dreamed of building a car for the masses, and that's precisely what he did, most notably with the immortal Model T of 1908-'27. The latter was bought by 16.5 million Americans during its 20-year lifespan and was affordable enough for Ford's own factory workers to purchase. Ford's early years were also distinguished by its introduction of the moving assembly line. It was the first to utilize this more cost-effective method of production, and its innovation became a mainstay of the manufacturing process.

Ford expanded into the luxury-car market with its purchase of Lincoln Motor Company in 1925. Over the next few years, the company broadened its focus even further by creating the Mercury division to produce mid-priced cars. By the late '30s, Ford had unveiled the stylish Lincoln Zephyr, introduced a low-priced V8 engine and built more than 25 million vehicles.

The 1950s saw the introduction of the legendary Thunderbird. Offering sleek styling and spirited performance wedded to available luxury features like power windows and a signal-seeking radio, the car was a huge hit. Another model of that decade, the Edsel, met with a somewhat less enthusiastic reception. In the wake of abysmal sales, the Edsel was discontinued just a few months into its third model year.

Ford regained its footing in the early 1960s with the introduction of the compact Falcon, a model that was warmly received by the public. By the middle of the decade the automaker had given enthusiasts something to cheer about with the launch of the sporty Mustang, a car that went on to become one of the biggest sellers of its day. Buyers adored the Mustang's low price, available powerful V8 engines and sporty styling. The Mustang even created a brand-new vehicle category: the pony car.

By the 1970s, Ford, like other domestic automakers, was starting to suffer the effects of changing consumer tastes and new government regulations. Many of its cars became shadows of their former selves. But the seeds of rebirth were planted in this decade. In 1979, the company acquired a stake in Mazda; this move would later aid Ford significantly in co-development projects. The company also emerged with a new mindset of global competitiveness.

By the mid-to-late '80s, Ford was showing new strength with its popular Escort and Taurus models while further expanding its empire with the purchase of the Aston Martin and Jaguar brands. Meanwhile, its full-size LTD sedan (later renamed the Crown Victoria) remained a staple of taxi companies and police forces throughout America.

Ford rode a wave of popularity in the 1990s, thanks in part to the huge success of its Explorer midsize SUV. The truck played a huge role in ushering in the era of the SUV. In 1999, Ford expanded its family yet again with the purchase of Volvo's car division, and, in 2000, it acquired Land Rover. For awhile, there was talk of Ford even taking General Motors' spot as the No. 1 automaker in the world.

But the new millennium initially saw a downturn for Ford. Increased competition, a continuing operating loss for Jaguar, legacy costs and a reliance on SUVs for profit took their toll. To compensate, the company sold Aston Martin, Jaguar, Land Rover and Volvo and introduced a wave of successful new products. Models like the F-150, Fusion, Fiesta, Focus, Flex and Mustang have allowed Ford to regain its health and standing as a very competitive manufacturer.

User Reviews:

• 

  good all around truck - 2005 Ford F-150
  By winston - May 19 - 8:03 am

  Compared 5.4L V8 XLT 4x4 with Silverado Z71 package. So far I am really pleased with the Ford. Even with large side mirrors, there is little wind noise for this class. Steering is responsive and not numb. Relatively little body lean in turns for a large truck. Even though I go fishing and haul stuff, we also use the truck for everyday stuff like going to the store. Anchors for toddler seat are easily reached and not buried deep in backseat. Took advantage of Ford Family plan and got truck for $5K under invoice (after rebate) and much cheaper than Expedition 4x4.

• 

  My 3rd. Mustang - 2007 Ford Mustang
  By Mustangman - May 18 - 10:44 pm

  My first was a 1967 coupe, after that I was hooked. Then came the 2001 Bullet, then the 2007 GT/CS. I have loved them all. Driving this new one is a blast if your in town or on the highway or at the drag strip. It handles very well. The fit and finish inside and out are above avg. The Shaker 500 stereo is awesome.(wish I would have got the 1000 though) I have done a few minor mods and am pleased with the results. This 3 valve motor responds well to modifications.

• 

  Great Value - The Best 7 Passanger AWD - 2007 Ford Freestyle
  By John I - May 18 - 9:09 pm

  Just turned 49,900 miles on my 2007 Freestyle Limited AWD. This is the best 7 passenger vehicle AWD out there. It has been through mud, sand and snow and is unstoppable. Consistently gets 20-22 mpg in combined driving in New Jersey. Back and forth Florida to New Jersey a couple of times, and the vehicle is very easy to handle. Much better in crosswinds than any SUV and just as comfortable inside. The AWD drive system from Volvo in this thing is the best, and at a much lower price than a Volvo.

• 

  An Almost Luxury SUV - 2006 Ford Explorer
  By SneakyE - May 18 - 8:03 pm

  I have owned my 2006 Explorer for 2 months now. I was impressed from the first time I drove the car. I was amazed that a body on frame "truck" could be so quiet, smooth and effortless to drive. This rides better and is quieter that the Lexus SUVs I have tried. Yet there is plenty of power with a nice growl from the V8 when needed. I have had seven adults fit comfortable in it. Even the 6 foot guy in the 3rd row said it was surprisingly roomy. I was aware of the unusual door pulls before I looked at the car and despite my concerns I dont even notice them now. I have had no problems with the fit, finish and quality of the construction so far. This is by far the best SUV I have owned.

• 

  Follow-up at 9 months - 2008 Ford Taurus
  By GPalmer - May 18 - 7:25 pm

  Now the car has 12K miles. Hasnt seen a shop, still quiet as day one, still a really great car! Now car- pooling with 4 adults: all are comfy and comment on how roomy and the quite ride. Really cant say how impressed I am with Ford for making a great car! This is a company car provided me if they tried to recall it, Id fight like mad to buy it!

• 

  Great pony - 2006 Ford Mustang
  By darryl Filiatrault - May 18 - 4:07 pm

  Best car Ive ever owned. CA to Toronto, CA to Vancouver 34 mpg great. Lots less in town because I dont spare the horses lots of fun to drive. Im a large guy and find the seats guite comfy. Mine is windvail blue. Lots of aftermarket parts. Looks great .

• 

  I am in love with my car - 2008 Ford Mustang
  By rfranks - May 18 - 2:00 pm

  I have always wanted another Mustang since the 69 I had and I finally got it. It is everything I hoped it would be. So much fun to drive. When Im out with the top down, years and wrinkles melt away and Im young again. All my friends want one now.

• 

  Great for a smaller car - 2007 Ford Focus
  By Robin - May 18 - 11:50 am

  After driving a GMC Jimmy, the ride is much different and cant really be compared. For a small car, it is very fun to drive and it lets me pass the gas pumps giving good gas mileage. This models standard features are great with its leather seats, 6-CD stereo pkg with controls on the steering column and cruise as well as a sunroof. Telescopic steering wheel is great especially if you and your spouse are going to drive the vehicle - saves a lot of arguments! It has great handling and when I drive this car I feel like Mario Andretti! I would recommend this car to anyone looking to save dollars on gas and is a fun to drive car.

• 

  Its about time domestic - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By Marco - May 18 - 11:03 am

  Tried the Fusion after my bad experience with my 04 GM SUV and also for better gas mileage. I was hesitant in purchasing used but was good value for the money. It had 59k on it but runs and feels like new. This is a gas saver with a full size ride and feel. I have cut my gas bill in half. So far the best used car I have ever purchased. Ford finally got one right. Dont be afraid to at least test drive one. Things are finally getting better for us die hard north american suporters. Remember build it and they will come. Thanks for restoring my faith in North American!

• 

  Great Pick-up - 1996 Ford F-150
  By Matty - May 18 - 10:43 am

  Just recently purchased this vehicle. Quite simply, the 302 with 3.55s and 32 inch tires is gutless. Dont expect to tow much. That being said, I have nearly 200,000 miles on this truck and she runs perfect. Shes even been in a wreck and still is rock solid. All mechanical aspects perform flawlessly (altho Im a Chevrolet guy, so the Mazda manual transmission is a bit tricky for what Im used to). Beautiful, high-quality vehicle. Besides for the lack of power, the only other problem is if youre anything less than 6 feet tall (Im barely 6 foot) youll have a heck of a time reaching the pedals yet still being comfortable (my Girlfriend cant drive her). Overall, for me, a 9+ rating!