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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  Nightmare on wheels - 1993 Ford Taurus
  By my SHO - July 14 - 3:46 pm

  When the car was running, it was a thing of beauty. Power, handling, looks even were great. Bought it used in 2001 with 76K miles. Broke down not two days after the 3 month warranty ran out, and then every 4 to 5 months after until the transmission went in June of 07. The starter and alternator were replaced too many times to count, along with various other recurring electrical problems, brakes, radiator, spent thousands more on repairs than was worth it. A regular maintenance schedule was no help.

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  Very fun car needing costant attention - 1993 Ford Taurus
  By sho-rod - July 14 - 2:02 pm

  Very fun car. Very comfortable, fully loaded. Catback exhaust, lightweight flywheel and warm air intake really woke it up. More mods to come. It is a 14 year old Ford, some issues will be expected. It still needs an engine mount, and the A/C compressor clutch hub. A couple oil leaks, and warped brake rotors. And the drivers seat has little padding left. Fuel economy is average for a high output 6 cylinder in the city, but it goes up dramatically on the highway. I paid $3k for the car, and have already spent half that on improving it. It is very worth spending money on, because it is very rewarding to drive.

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  Ive got a good one! - 1999 Ford Taurus
  By HeartlandJason - July 14 - 12:32 pm

  I bought this car with 27000 miles on it and now have 123,000 on it. I have only put $450 into it for a serpentine belt and tie rods. It has been very reliable and trouble free. My best mileage has been 33 mpg. This car is a great value for your money!

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  I still own it - 1996 Ford Mustang
  By AJ - July 14 - 11:06 am

  No major problems after 11 years.Have not driven it much since 2004, only 2200 miles. Hard on tires. Replaced exhaust system, sounds better and increased power.

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  Best Hybrid around for SUV use - 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By C.Kreider - July 14 - 6:26 am

  I needed an SUV for hauling and this model is excellent with plenty of storage in the back seat and trunk area. Very peppy on the road and the smooth transition from battery to gas is not felt at all. Very happy owner! I drive lots of freeway traffic and like the way the car handles at all speeds.

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  One Hot Ride - 2005 Ford Mustang
  By GardenGirl - July 13 - 2:03 pm

  I went from driving an SUV to a sports car and never looked back. It is not only fun to drive but a real head turner. The exterior design is eye catching. It is only a V6 but moves like a baby V8. I cant say enough about this car. I have never loved to drive a car this much. It handles well and gets decent gas mileage compared to an SUV. I highly recommend the 2005 Mustang!

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  Taurus are Forever - 1998 Ford Taurus
  By Firstpick - July 13 - 10:39 am

  I am a somewhat new driver and I got my Taurus from my dad at like 189,000 miles and by next week I will have 200,000 miles. I drive my car hard leaving from stops and the only thing I see wrong with the car and other Tauruss is that the rear shocks and struts go out at about 100,000 miles, but other than that I love my cat-fish car.

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  Ford built a Honda beater - 2008 Ford Fusion
  By murdog - July 12 - 11:23 pm

  I bought my Fusion with the intent of parking my fullsize truck. I went for the 4cyl with a stick. And a moon roof, as well as the audiophile stereo. Great car on the highway averaging 31.5mpg HWY. I tested the Accord and equally equipped it was $10K more than my fusion. for $10 grand I will give up 190HP. After 7 years solidly in the Chevy camp I am happily moving back to the Ford one. The price style and fuel economy not to mention the 2.3L for its never quit attitude. Keep it up Ford.

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  Tow the line - 2003 Ford Expedition
  By August - July 12 - 12:56 pm

  We are the second owners, with just under 70,000 miles on it. I am only writing this to help someone choose an excellent tow vehicle. We tow a 22ft travel trailer all over illinois, packed full with kids, pets and camping stuff. Extremely pleased with power and comforts on the road. We had an Expedition with the smaller v8 and it was not nearly as pleasing when we hit the open road. Zero mechanical problems as of yet, but its still low mileage to me. If your going to tow do not undersize your SUV or truck. That will definitely take the pleasure out of your travel.

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  I love this car! - 1996 Ford Probe
  By wantrs50 - July 12 - 1:59 am

  I have put 50,000 miles on my GT in 5+ years and have yet to make a repair, only regular maintenance. The only problem Ive had is the EGR valve malfunctioning. Now with 105,000 miles it still runs like a champ. Check ebay and you will see these approaching 300,000 miles sometimes. The Mazda 2.5 v6 is a great engine, though not on par with todays Japanese sporty engines. The braking and handling are superb. This car "feels right" more than any car I have ever driven, and I have driven many. I have other vehicles, but simply refuse to sell my ol Probe because I love it too much. This car really is a gem! Get a nice one if you get the chance - itll be well worth the money.