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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  Its a keeper! - 2002 Ford Taurus
  By GMANS97 - March 7 - 1:44 am

  Loved this car brand new, but some kids smashed into it while it was parked, and broke the front axle. So now I hear a noise every time I make turns. Gas mpg avg about 21mpg with mixed city/express way. Car has been reliable with only problems being the Fan speed switch has stop working & had malfuntion door ajar one hot summer. Road/wind noise, windows fog up quickly, small/large potholes really send a shiver through car. I have over 47k in 5 yrs and Im sure this car will last another 10-15yrs easy. It just wont be worth anything in the next 2yrs. This car has been reliable in the worst winters, and is one of the best American cars ever made?

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  Unbelievable - 2008 Ford Mustang
  By torinotroy - March 7 - 1:42 am

  A step up from the GT. From the moment I sat in it, I knew I had to have it. This is coming from a guy who owned 2 Vettes in the past! The seat hugs you, the power shocked me. Ive also owned a 1996 Cobra- this thing would maul it. At first glance my car looks like a six cylinder Stang, in fact thats what I thought it was...negative. Also love the fact theres no badges-except for the ponys on the rims and BULLITT faux gas cap on the rear panel. The shaker 1000 sound system is louder than the Bose system in previous cars Ive owned (a big plus for me!). The fact that its 1 of 7000 is reason enough to invest in one, in my opinion, bang for buck, unbeatable.

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  The Best Heavy Duty Family Vehicle Made - 2001 Ford Excursion
  By Daniel Jaeger - March 6 - 7:43 pm

  The Excursion is the best vehicle we have purchased. From driving around town, to driving across the country with our travel trailer, this is the best vehicle for people who want a vehicle that seats many people, gets good fuel mileage, is reliable, and is willing to tow anything. My Powerstroke Excursion with Powerservice additive gets 20 mpg city and 25 highway. An Excursion will beat a Suburban anyday. From Towing to reliability, the diesel engine will outlast a Chevy gas 3 to 1. And thats just the beginning. I saw a Ford Excursion towing a broke down Chevy Suburban down I70 in Missouri. The Excursion is the only SUV that can tow 10000 pounds.

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  Fords best car ever made - 1997 Ford Thunderbird
  By Hector Delgado - March 6 - 3:19 pm

  This is car is the best, I have owned 7 dated since the 89 Sc to the most recent 97 LX. I use my car for work, I am a P.I. and have used this type of vehicle for my job. The car is dependable and fast, neither one of the cars I have had have given me problems, do the maintanence as required and the car will last forever. The car has made me money as well, each car I have sold has made me a profit to purchase another like it. This one I have now has all the features, traction control, sunroof and the 17 inch chrome blade stock wheels from the factory. Simply I wont change the car for another unless it is a another T-bird. Thanks Ford for a great car!

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  Average car with some big goofs - 2002 Ford Focus
  By mad chalet - March 6 - 11:28 am

  I bought this car used a year ago. I liked the look of the car, the format, and I have heard good things about it from Euro owners. After owning it for a year I have discovered cosmetic problems and handling problems, as well as build problems. The carpeting doesnt match the contour of the body so it is pulling away from the trim, and actually tearing. The rear suspension is dangerous, skipping across bumps instead of absorbing them. There are lots of rattles caused by poorly fit plastics. The transmission is okay, but could shift more smoothly - it seems to be hunting for the right gear sometimes, with reluctance to downshift (you have to punch the pedal)

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  luv my spotrac - 2004 Ford Explorer Sport Trac
  By gramma10 - March 6 - 10:00 am

  I think over all it is pretty good I wish that it would get better mileage as I do alot of traveling and it is my main source of transportation. It is easy to handle and comfortable riding and alot of room not like other trucks Ive driven. And do I get the looks from younger men when they see a woman driving this vehicle :) It makes me feel good.(incase youre wondering Im in my early 40s and yes I am a gramma :)) I would recommend this vehicle as it has get up and go even towing 2 big Honda Foreman Rubicons be hind it. I cant wait until winter to check out the fun 4wd as I havent had one before.

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  2004 F 150 - 2004 Ford F-150
  By JimA - March 6 - 10:00 am

  This truck is a breathe of fresh air not only for Ford, but for people looking for a god, solid, American truck that will last.

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  Escape to Ford - 2005 Ford Escape
  By June Keller - March 6 - 10:00 am

  A midsize SUV at a good price. Handles better than the Toyota CRV that i owned before this one also larger than the Toyota. I wish it had a door in the rear like the Toyota CRV had. The hatch back is ok, but i prefer a door. Door is much easier to open and close when taking things in and out. Other than the door issue the Escape is a solid SUV. (needs a built in ashtray, LOL)

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  So Far, So Good - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By 1st Time Ford Buyer - March 6 - 10:00 am

  I had a Chevy TrailBlazer for 2-1/2 years and although it was a great truck, Im really enjoying my new Eddie Bauer. The ride is much smoother; the stereo is much better; and the features are fun!

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  First Ford - 2005 Ford Mustang
  By Convert - March 6 - 9:20 am

  Wow. This car pulled me out of my Mopars for the first time in my life (age 41). I have not liked Ford car designs for years now. Nothing excited me like this car (in this price range). I have the manual and the shifting is very smooth. For 300 hp I think the acceleration is poor but the sound is awesome. The sound is why I got the V8 over the V6. The handling is very "secure". The driving outputs match the inputs very well. The retro dash with MyColor is a great mix of new and old. I feel the 500 radio is more than enough for someone my age. Great convertible top seal so far. Low wind noise. Mentioned before on this site, this car sure does get looks! Screaming Yellow.