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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  Almost 2 years later - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By freealfas - May 11 - 10:42 am

  Has been a great vehicle. I find it to be the best balance of value, economy, space, advanced technology, safety, and style avaiable. It is perfect for hauling our child and all of her stuff and when the grandparents come to town it lets us all ride in comfort and safety. You cannot go wrong with the purchase of a FS and will enjoy every mile.

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  Love this SUV!! - 2004 Ford Expedition
  By agil - May 11 - 10:00 am

  Handles very well for its large size. Very similar to driving a Town Car. Good overall power. Good towing capacity. Very smooth, comfortable ride. Overall great SUV.

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  Red Power - 2004 Ford Expedition
  By jolecopa - May 11 - 10:00 am

  We decided to buy a SUV because we wanted something more "Sporty" after driving a Ford Windstar for 8 years who I kept it as daily work car. The expedition so far has been an incredible good experience with powerful engine, comfort, roomy and beautiful looking shape. The only complaint is my kids doesnt want to go in my 97 Windstar anymore.

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  This truck rocks. - 2004 Ford F-150
  By dealerjim - May 11 - 10:00 am

  This truck has been a lot of fun. I have done several mods to it and spent tons of money but I love it.

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  tires suck - 2004 Ford F-150
  By tim stickney - May 11 - 10:00 am

  I love the truck, the thing i do not is the fact the tires wear out way to fast and you can not put good highway tires on it that will get 50k worth of miles.I am 47 yrs old and i baby this truck and i rotate tires every 5k and review pressures once a month.still doing that, i only get 25 k out of a set of tires that are way high priced

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  King of the Trucks I love my FORD! - 2004 Ford F-150
  By HKB - May 11 - 10:00 am

  What an AWESOME truck! Hands down ahead of the competition. Everywhere I go people stop and admire the truck. Even have a Chevy neighbor that is jeolous of this one. This truck has the split bench seat up front. Have had to use a number of times taking 5 other passengers. Again an outstanding Truck!

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  Fast Car - 2004 Ford Mustang
  By George38 - May 11 - 10:00 am

  Overall, an excellent car. I am very happy with my Mustang. I love the MACH 460 Audio System! I have put in 2 40 series Flowmasters, and believe me, it would scare anyone that you come across with at the stop light!

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  fun to drive - 2004 Ford Mustang
  By anitagayle - May 11 - 10:00 am

  I wanted a fun car to drive with a 5 speed manual transmission. This car certainly fits the bill. This is my 3rd mustang and I plan to get another one after this one. It has a roomy truck for a sports car. very comfortable seats. Not much leg room in back but plenty in front. Price is right also!

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  Great Car, Great Value - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By Mike B - May 11 - 9:27 am

  I bought the SE V6 new. I wanted a used one freshly off of a lease, but none available. It was a gamble buying the first generation Fusion, but so far, I have had no major issues. Actually, this chassis does have a history, since it is based off of the Mazda 6, which is also a great car. The 220 hp V6 is powerful and responsive. I get 30 mpg driving mostly highway to work (I drive pretty conservative), which is great. The seats are comfortable and supportive for the front passengers. I have put 27,000 miles on this car in about a year (not very proud of that number) due to a long commute and weekend travel. So far, no codes pulled or mechanical issues. Interior trim could be better.

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  Wifes baby - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By EagleOne - May 11 - 4:15 am

  I bought a 2006 Fusion with 12,000 miles on it, has all options except sunroof. This is the first car Ive bought in many years that my wife has fallen in love with. The appearance and comfort are unbelieveable. The V6 engine runs fantastic. We are in love with this car!