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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  A former loyal Ford Customer - 2005 Ford F-150
  By Ray Lane - January 25 - 9:59 am

  Have had a lot of problems with the drive train on this vehicle. Rear end problems started at around 13,000 miles. Had 2 rear end rebuilds on this truck. Engine problems began around 60,000 miles. Had cam problems. Cam eventually broke at 85,000 miles. Apparently a problem with this model Ford. Ford has not offerd to help repair.

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  Just the facts - 2005 Ford Mustang
  By Ron Bernstein - January 25 - 3:20 am

  I ordered in December. from a dealer that had no allocation. Re-ordered in April, finally arrived June. Top ripped around window, factory just replaced. The A/C was better (colder) in my 2000. No inside glove box truck release. Why only 1 rear window switch for both. The key rubs your leg (should be higher). Shaker 1000 not worth the money, besides eats trunk space. Quiet, fast, good looking; no doubt this car is a classic. Even with the faults, where could you buy a better car for the money? Headlights are great for the back roads. Backseat not bad in a pinch.This car stands out in a crowd.

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  Fun Driving - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By funguy - January 24 - 11:48 pm

  I traded in my Ford 2005 Taurus for the 2006 Ford Fusion SE. This car is the bomb to drive. Im extremely please with the drive ability, fuel savings, etc. I rate this affordable vehicle as "Outstanding".

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  Worst Car I EVER owned - 2001 Ford Focus
  By corncars - January 24 - 9:47 pm

  This is the worst car EVER! I did not want an American car, but my spouse insisted. This is like driving a time bomb! The dash board lights flash and blink, the radio works when it feels like and the speedo just stops abruptly! The dealer can not figure out what is wrong. It is leaking and burning oil and when the heat is on, the fumes fill the car, again, Ford has not explanation. It looked nice and sporty, but the inside is ROTTEN! Spend your money on a nice Toyota or Hyndai, at least youll get a 100,000 mile warranty!

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  Most reliable automobile I have owned - 1998 Ford F-150
  By onceamarine - January 24 - 4:57 pm

  I bought my F150 in 2001 and now 7 years later I am still happy with it. I have not had any major repairs to mess with, and it shows no sign of needing any in the near future. It gets truck mpg, which stinks for any truck owner these days. The paint and body still look great. Only having three doors means I am going to have to sell it soon, with kid #2 on the way. I am sure going to miss it, and will be buying a newer 4 door F150.

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  Satisfied - 2008 Ford Focus
  By Mike Summers - January 24 - 3:10 pm

  I bought this car after I put $120 of gas in my truck and said enough is enough. The car has met all my expectations that I had for the small car. Im 62" and I recently took a day trip and it wasnt bad but I believe it wasnt built for me. I paid $13,650 drive out with no trade-in. I believe buying cars at the end of the month is best. This is my sixth new Ford I have purchased since 1976 and I will continue to by their products. I have checked two tanks fulls of gas for mpg and I have gotten over 33 mpg from both tanks. Its probably 75% highway and 25% around town.

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  My new car - 1997 Ford Escort
  By Gary Grove - January 24 - 9:21 am

  I like the size and the handling.The gas mileage is great. All maintance was normal. The price fit into budget. I like the color.

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  Very Happy - 2007 Ford F-150
  By Logan - January 24 - 12:42 am

  After being a die hard Chevy guy for so long I had a hard time looking at the F-150, but am very happy I did. I got the XLT and optioned for the 18 inch wheels and 5.4 L engine. Also got the skid plates, chrome package, CPT chairs and some other goodies. This truck looks so much better then the Chevy and price for value kills the other big trucks. I have read the power and gas mileage complaints. It tows great, and it is a 4x4, so I dont plan on racing anyone. As for mileage, its a big truck with a V-8....like my trucks before I did not expect 25-30 MPG. I am getting around 16 in town and can nurse 20 or so on highway with the cruise set at 80. Very comfortable, stylish and roomy.

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  Feels like a Volvo - 2006 Ford Five Hundred
  By John D - January 23 - 10:06 pm

  Overall, I am very impressed with this car. Ive had it for 3 months and have not had any unpleasant experiences. The car is very comfortable, even on very long trips, handles great, and has all the features I wanted. The CVT takes some getting used to but has been a nice surprise as well. Ive had a Volvo in the past, and you do notice the car drives similar (very solid car). Gas mileage attained was nearly the same as on the window sticker.

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  New 2004 SUV Ford - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By Ford 2004 SUV - January 23 - 6:53 pm

  We brought this new 2004 SUV Sport in white with trim, and let me tell you we are very satisfied. 4.0, 6 cyl. It retailed at $35,000 and walked off the dealership just paying $25,000. (We brought it on New Years Day of 2005) Seats 7. Not a lot of room in the back for groceries but you can get by. Our two toddlers sit in the 2nd row. Ford has put a lot of value into this SUV. We checked other SUVs and they were way too expensive. Ford safety record on this vehicle rated high according to the NHSTA. Not the greatest on gas, but with it being NEW the gas is going B+. The oil filter is easy to get to. I recommend you get it with the Leather seats. Leather seats are the best to buy. My wife loves it!