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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  Repeat Buyer Disappointment!! - 2014 Ford Focus
  By D M Warden - August 15 - 7:52 am

  This is my 2nd purchase of a new Ford Focus. The first was a 2011 which I loved. Great mileage, handled well and reasonably priced. I traded in the 2011 for a 2014. Initially I felt once again Id purchased a reliable mid-size sedan which handled well, had great mileage, was comfortable, roomy and in my opinion a classy looking car. Approximately 17,000 miles in I started having acceleration issues. The car would jerk and was slow to get up to speed when accelerating. I had a scary situation when I was going up a ramp in a parking garage and it felt like the car was going to lose power and roll backwards. The sputtering and jerking usually starts after driving the car for a while. Ive had the car inspected by a Ford Dealer and was told I needed the clutch assembly replaced. That was over a month ago. I contacted the dealer today and was told that clutch assembly parts have been ordered for many customers and none of the parts have been delivered by Ford. With all the complaints I dont understand why its taking so long for the parts to be delivered. I have no choice but to drive my car everyday but I have to say the complaints Ive read make me very leery. Im also disappointed in the customer service and customer outreach due to I was never contacted by Ford or received any notification regarding the transmission issues. It was only after I heard about a report on my local news and I started doing some investigation on my own. When I purchased my 2nd Ford I could see myself being a Ford customer for many years to come; now Im not so sure.

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  Jack of all trades - 1993 Ford Aerostar
  By Wayne Canant - August 15 - 5:07 am

  Aerostar XL 4.0 with front & rear ac. Purchased with 125000 miles, wrecked with 259,790. Excellent foot room driver/passengers. Rapid rear and middle bench seat removal for hauling cargo. Battery, pass headlignt, tail lightbulbs, air/oil/trans/fuel filters easy to change. Filler neck for fuel is beside drivers door,(excellent location for security) Fuel mileage 23mpg at sustained 70mph Fuel mileage 16mpg in town stop n go. Excellent acceleration at all speeds. Excellent load capacity. Minor points of iritation Alternator is right below oil filler neck. Have to guard aginst drips. Driver side headlight bulb requires tools time and care in changing. Ignition switchproblem

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  I love it - 2004 Ford Escape
  By apple annie - August 15 - 2:00 am

  I have been driving the 2003 for several months, both on the road and in town. I love the way it handles and it is great for shopping. My husband who did not want me to buy it, loves it and drives it all the time. It is great on the highway also, good mileage, comfortable and easy to handle.

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  First SUV - 2004 Ford Escape
  By motionman - August 15 - 2:00 am

  Ride is smooth, not too much body lean for a fairly hefty vehicle. Pick up is responsive. Interior is pleasant, comfortable, with the only major problem being the gearshift in the way of the audio controls (will be fixed on the 05 model.). Gas mileage is not terrible for a SUV this heavy with a v- 6. Exterior is well made, no cheap plastics or easily scratched paint. The four-wheel drive system is made for daily commuting/travelling..not made for four wheel off-road adventures. Interior road noise is noticeable, but not overwhelming. Overall, I am very satisfied with this vehicle, great performance for a relatively cheap pricetag.

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  Focus SVT: Fun to drive - 2002 Ford Focus
  By progers - August 15 - 2:00 am

  My experience with my Focus has been fantastic. a powerful engine, even in 6th gear, it can move.

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  Focus is the new Model T - 2003 Ford Focus
  By mczcoke - August 15 - 2:00 am

  Ford Focus has got to be the best buy for the dollar around, from peformance handling to all around styling and driving charisma. No other company can touch the aftermarket power Ford has poured into the compact street racer forums and minds of the young individual alike and still get outstanding mileage out of it. A+++++

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  explorer sport - 2003 Ford Explorer Sport
  By djmg513 - August 15 - 2:00 am

  good truck, not very practicle if getting into the back seat, but thats why you drive it. Not a big deal if u have to go into the back though...

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  In need of fixes - 2004 Ford Expedition
  By Mark Larey - August 15 - 2:00 am

  Very dissappointed with some mechanical aspects. Turning from stop makes noise, other transmission noise between 40-55 mph. Been to dealer (first time at 1800 miles) they are aware of the problems---told it is "clutch" and "pinion". Also having abnormal wear pattern of front tires--Ive been told this is a tire problem. Dealer seems aware of these problems (I must not be the only one) but tells me Ford hasnt come out with any fixes yet.

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  Cockpit is uncomfortable - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By knee hurts - August 15 - 2:00 am

  I owned a 97 explorer which was a great vehicle. The 04 eddie bauer I bought, fot the most part is a stronger, more responsive suv. However if your 6 feet tall or taller the cockpit is very uncomfortable. They shortened the seats and made them too hard. My knee constantly hits the center console and when I switch from gas to brake pedal my knee hits the keys hanging from the ignition. My advice drive it on a trip of at leasr 200 miles before you buy. I will be trading mine next year.

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  2004 GT coupe - 2004 Ford Mustang
  By Scott Jessup - August 15 - 2:00 am

  Has suffient trunk space and back seat space. Has plenty of power. Is very comfortable.