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:

• 

  Great - 2004 Ford Ranger
  By Jerkwad - June 21 - 2:00 am

  I love This Vehicle and would never get another on like it.

• 

  Pick Up Girls! - 1999 Ford Mustang
  By uncmustang - June 21 - 2:00 am

  I bought this car while in College at 20,000 miles. Served me great with no mechanical or driving problems except one small pressure cable that helps to lift the roof up broke ( figures if I take the top up and down like every day!)That was the only thing to fix. My Car has 120,000 miles on it right now and runs like the same day I bought it!!!! I would recommend this car to anyone who loves to experience a convertible and has a joy for driving.

• 

  I love My Mustang - 2000 Ford Mustang
  By stangchick - June 21 - 2:00 am

  I love my Mustang. I bought it used and have had it for a year and a half now. The only problem I have had is the driver side door lock broke, but it was only a switch so it was an easy fix. It goes pretty good for a v6 and it shifts great! I would definately recommend this car. I love the power, control and awesome feeling i get from driving this car.The trunk is a perfect size and I dont care that the back seat is small, I will never have kids so it doesnt matter. This Mustang is definately a great car.

• 

  Excellent, but still missing - 2003 Ford Expedition
  By Rebellion014220 - June 21 - 2:00 am

  The car is fun to drive but can get to ruff at times, the cabin is boring especially in the dash but the plastic is reliable and seems long lasting, it shows great power especially on freeways, and it puts speed in to your driving, the car is safe and large so theres nothing to worry about

• 

  The Closest "No Compromise" Vehicle - 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By John - June 20 - 4:00 pm

  After owning our FFH for about 4 months now, we cant say enough good things about the vehicle. We traded our SUV for it and still have our Prius which spends a lot more time sitting in the garage than ever before. I have never been a Ford guy in the past, but this vehicle has completely changed my perception of the quality and design of Ford products for the better. I think this vehicle is the closest you can come today to having a vehicle that gets great gas mileage without having to compromise in any way. The car is beautiful inside and out, is put together flawlessly, and has been averaging between 36-40mpg in mixed driving. Nice job FORD!

• 

  Great SUV - 1997 Ford Explorer
  By meddac1 - June 20 - 2:00 am

  I bought our EB V-8 AWD explorer brand new and 7 years later at 85000 miles she is still a great performer! THis is our second EB had a 1994 that was equally good but underpowered so traded when the V-8 was available. I cant believe all the other reviews. The only problem I ever had was a computer module went out that caused the engine to run poorly and a power window switch at 60K. I do my own maintenance and used Mobil 1 ever since breakin and changed the plugs out early as waiting for 100K miles could be awhile. The AWD performs great in the snow and does much better than my 4X4 truck.

• 

  best truck ive ever owned - 1993 Ford F-150
  By seanhanson - June 20 - 2:00 am

  I love this truck. the handling and power are exceptional for the engine size. it looks and feels great. everything about the instruments and switches(such as the blinkers, windshield washers etc.) are right where i need them. Two gas tanks is an exceptional feature. Keep up the good work!

• 

  I love my hybrid - 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By charlie - June 19 - 6:00 pm

  I love my hybrid. Its fun to drive and sporty. I have the black/w black leather seats and tinted windows. Its very sharp! The sync is great especially since I own a zune and most cars are geared to Ipods. This car is very awesome I just wish there was an update for the navigation maps.

• 

  I Love My Escape! - 2005 Ford Escape
  By EnergyTurtle - June 18 - 8:13 am

  For having V6 and 4WD I think the gas mileage is great, I would buy this car over a comparable Honda or Toyota any day. Others complain about the mileage, but mine gets 24 mpg around town and 27 mpg on the highway with the 4A 3.0.

• 

  Love my escape - 2004 Ford Escape
  By shirley c - June 18 - 2:00 am

  My Husband and I purchased a Ford Escape and we love the car,great handling ,great looks , great price. What else do you need in a SUV and not overly large on the road Thanks Shirley C