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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  Not worth the money - 2003 Ford Focus
  By ckw - July 26 - 9:22 am

  The first two years I had the car it worked great. I had no problems with it. Then it started having problems. First, the radio went out. Then I began to have brake problems. Then my water pump and related components began to develop holes. Now the brake pads have worn down and the alternator has just about gone out. In the last 2 years, my car has been in the shop 5-6 times. Additionally, I used to get really good gas mileage. Now, its below average and my driving habits have not changed (perhaps due to the alternator). Ive had other cars that maybe went to the shop once in their whole lifetime.

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  Austin Bluesman - 2016 Ford Mustang
  By Bill Henricks - July 26 - 3:50 am

  Love my Mustang Ecoboost Convertible! Power and acceleration is probably good for most people. But I wanted a bit more power for hills I drive. I was able to make some easy modifications to improve power. Next step is upgraded turbo. Looks great, good visibility for a sports car and I find the convertible very enjoyable. Car drivers car.

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  Should have bought extended warrenty - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By mlogan03 - July 25 - 11:38 pm

  I purchased my 2004 Explorer new in December of 2003. I bought the basic XLS model and planned on using it for the short drive to work and the occasional trips out of town. It has been reliable until just last week when the ABS light, Service Engine, and the wrench light all came on at the same time. The cruise control also failed. The throttle body had to be replaced along with the rear wheel speed sensor. The vehicle has 32,000 miles and has been driven with care. Somewhat disappointed with the vehicle. Fortunately the Ford Service here was quite professional and had the vehicle back running in a couple of days.

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  Crappy Taurus - 1999 Ford Taurus
  By Kevin - July 25 - 1:36 pm

  Well, the only reason that I am driving this stupid jellybean is because it was free. My mom bought it and handed it down to me. Ive been driving it for a little over a year, and I dont like it. Its somewhat reliable, but my power locks stopped functioning after 2 months. The stock rims are crappy, they are all corroded and gross. Also, it is a jellybean. There is not one corner on that car, everything is round and stupid looking. Its very comfortable though. Gas mileage isnt great but its not the worst Ive seen. Lately the engine has been revving itself so thats not good. Check engine light never goes off because Ford designed a crappy gas cap.

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  Long distance trip review - 2007 Ford Freestyle
  By jjones - July 25 - 12:45 pm

  I just got back from a LONG trip through many states, including going through the Appalacian mountains. The trip with my family totaled over 2,200 miles. The Freestyle was a great vehicle, offering plenty of room for a family of four with lots of luggage. My experience was that it had PLENTY of passing power. The CVT would ramp up to 5.8K RPM and the car would FLY by anything on the road. Of course, it sounded like the world was coming to an end. Overall, there was not much to complain about. The computer said I averaged ~23 MPG over each tank, which is not bad for a car full of people and luggage.

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  First newer used car - 2010 Ford Escape
  By Drew - July 25 - 6:39 am

  First car Ive bought from a dealership, it suits me very well. Perfect size for longer commutes if you want to ride in comfort

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  08 Ford Taurus Limited - 2008 Ford Taurus
  By Dale Hurren - July 24 - 9:24 pm

  We purchased this car about two weeks ago and already have 1750 miles on it. It is a real nice car to drive and comfortable ride. It also has a lot of power, lot more then the 500 that I drove. I live in Middle Tn. in a rural area which is all hills and curves and we are able to get 22.5 to 23.4 mpg. We went to Kentucky and set the cruise at 65 and got 32.8 to 33.1 mpg.

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  Beware of transmission! - 2006 Ford Freestyle
  By Patricia Doyle - July 24 - 6:46 pm

  We purchased our Freestyle in 8/06 and were initially very pleased with it. It handled well and looked sharp. The kids loved it too. We had problems, though, with the dashboard lights (fuel cap, check engine, etc.) going on and off. Finally the worst happened July 7th. While riding on the NJ Turnpike, our transmission died. We were shocked (but thankfully safe). The car had only 12,800 miles. The transmission needed to be replaced and we were using a rental for two weeks. Ford didnt even reimburse us for all of our expenses. The car is back and is running fine. Im very disappointed with Ford, though. I thought they would take better care of us throughout this ordeal.

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  my blue Focus - 2003 Ford Focus
  By Joe Gaver Jr - July 24 - 4:10 pm

  Surprised how gutsy and nimble this thing is despite having 4 fewer cylinders than my 1990 Mustang GT had!

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  1998 Escort SE - A great, reliable car! - 1998 Ford Escort
  By Scooter - July 24 - 12:14 pm

  Bought this car new in 98 for my wife to drive around town, an SE Sport model thats still fun to drive. After 9 years and only 31,000 miles, the engine still has a lot of pep and gets GREAT gas mileage. No major repairs other than a serpentine belt and A/C work (common to Escorts). Most problems due to age rather that normal wear and tear. Routine maintenance was as expected. Will be a great car to pass on down to the kids!