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:

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  Taurus Wagon - 2004 Ford Taurus
  By Garret-1008 - June 25 - 2:00 am

  Traded in a 1990 Towncar that was used for fishing and around town, needed something that would carry all the gear. The Tuarus Wagon fits the bill perfectly.Also the wife likes the adjustable pedals, and the grandkids love the 3rd seat.Had one problem, a bad fuel injector which was replaced by the dealer and is now running good.A fun car to drive, but a little rough over some road bumps.

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  Taurus Reveiws - 2001 Ford Taurus
  By mrfixxright - June 25 - 2:00 am

  I am VERY picky on my vech. My 2000 taurus sedan I have owned for over 3 years and has performed flawlessly and have been so happy that I had purchased a 2001 wagon over a year ago. That also was an excel. purchase. They are a great value, comfortable for long trips (and I am not a small person), and perform VERY well, although I HIGHLY recommend getting the 24 valve dura- tech.engine as I have in both of mine as they are touted to be extremely reliable. No problems here !!!! PS EDMUNDS NEEDS TO ADD A SES 2001 WAGON LISTING, THEY ONLY HAVE A SE LISTING, MY WAGON IS A 2001 SES

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  172k and still kicking - 1993 Ford Escort
  By munchie - June 25 - 2:00 am

  I bought my car 5 years ago with 77k. Repair work has been very reasonable. It wasnt until the car hit around 150k that the engine needed some work. And within the last year I just had to replace the brake pads and the altenator. But when your car has 170+k you cant complain. This car is the best car anyone in my family has had.

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  Nice SUV - 2004 Ford Escape
  By Mustangman22 - June 25 - 2:00 am

  We bought this 6 months ago and this thing is sweet. The only problem is the dealer ship we bought it from. We have this werid vibration in the steering wheel and we have had it in there 5 times and the still havent fixed it.

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  Fusion is Fabulous - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By Laura - June 24 - 6:03 pm

  Wow what a quality vehicle! From the wheels to the audio system it feels like a luxury car. I sure hope Ford come out with a hybrid version.

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  Love my hybrid Escape - 2005 Ford Escape
  By Patti Cornelius - June 24 - 2:36 pm

  Although I understand this vehicle is hard to get, if you are looking for hybrid technology I would highly recommend this vehicle. Most of my driving is done in the city and the nearly 40 miles per gallon really helps with $2.00+ per gallon gas prices here in California. This Escape is roomy and fun to drive. The quality, fit and finish is excellent.

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  Wish we got one sooner - 2003 Ford Expedition
  By rdgolden - June 24 - 2:00 am

  Moving to the larger vehicle wasnt as difficult as my wife and I expected. With 7 years experience driving a mini van she had no problems driving the Expedition around town or parking. The kids have plenty of room and the fold away back seat makes it easy to get groceries. During our Christmas trip to MI from Norfolk, VA we were caught in a blinding snow storm. The 2WD Expedition helped us feel secure and handled the extreme weather conditions very well. One thing I would maybe do over, "Get the larger engine." The 4.6 liter seems a bit weak at times. This may only seem a problem because I drive a 1986 F-250 351W, most of the time.

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  my- t-bird - 2004 Ford Thunderbird
  By Bobbuster - June 24 - 2:00 am

  wonderful sports feel, power and look. It excells in a car and driver fit.

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  2000 forf windstar - 2000 Ford Windstar
  By vikingone - June 24 - 2:00 am

  this van has been very relieable, comfotable to drive.inside outside very pleasing to eye.it been without any problems since i puchased it.very verisable too.Replaced tires at 50,000 still has oringinal brakes front/rear.pint is still very shiny.all around very good automobile

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  The ONLY sports car - 2003 Ford Mustang
  By jchap - June 24 - 2:00 am

  The fastest and most fun car I have ever had the pleasure to drive.