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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  LEMON - 2000 Ford Focus
  By Lorraine - July 27 - 10:00 am

  I have owned my Ford Focus for 2 yrs now and I WANT to sell it. It hasnt been too bad but still 4 recalls, plus sensors needed replacing and now the front end sounds like its going to fall down. The cars no longer under warranty either. This is my last Ford. It definately has been somewhat of a lemon.

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  Sport Trac - 2004 Ford Explorer Sport Trac
  By Cutter - July 27 - 10:00 am

  Very fun to drive and a great ride. Love the style of the truck.

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  my pick-up - 2004 Ford F-150
  By glowpen - July 27 - 10:00 am

  Reliable, fun to drive, at least 18mpg. city driving, comfort would have been a ten, but the bench seat leans to the inside, other than that its a fun hard working truck. Ford will be the only make that i will buy. Hope the rest of you people try a Ford soon.

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  serious saftey concern with shock rod - 2003 Ford Explorer Sport
  By Pauli - July 27 - 10:00 am

  I just bought a brandnew ford exporer from WESTWAY ford late saturday night in IRVING TEXAS. When we brought the explorer home that late night and then that early morning when we prssed the liftgate blue button on the remote the liftgate glass went up automaticly. And then the shock rod seperated from the glass fell resulting in it falling hard.Luckily no physical injuries. Addresed these concerns to FORD. People could seriously get injured , especially children. Also noticed defects in the rear left window.

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  Great value for a convertible - 2003 Ford Mustang
  By Flicka - July 27 - 10:00 am

  If you dont require the power of the GT, this car should work for you. Total blast to drive - no regrets on giving up the practical sedan for this one.

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  PLESANTLY SUPRISED - 2004 Ford Ranger
  By popeye222 - July 27 - 10:00 am

  I bought this truck to use as a work truck. I might change my mind. This sporty EDGE crewcab has been fun to drive. I can zip around town with the V- 6 and still get over 300 miles a tank. It is quiet and handles like a car. The other carmakers beware, Ford is changing for the better !

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  pleasantly surprised - 2004 Ford Taurus
  By packerfan - July 27 - 10:00 am

  With a son in college, I let the lease expire on my Lincoln LS and bought a loaded Taurus SEL. I expected much less car than I got. Clearly, its no LS, but the ride has been a pleasant surprise. Ive found it very comfortable on long trips. With the cruise control set at 65, I have gotten 31 miles per gallon on three different trips. With the upgraded features of the SEL: the leather seats, digital climate control, adjustable pedals, and premium stereo, it is a very nice ride for the money. It wont turn heads, but it has been a reliable, safe, and comfortable car. Poor resale aside, it was a bargain.

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  Great SUV - 2004 Ford Expedition
  By Gary E. Wood - July 27 - 10:00 am

  I traded a 2002 Explorer for a 2004 Expedition. It was a great decision. The Expedition is more solid, more powerful and more fun to drive. Plus, it looks great.

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  Best Mustang Ive ever owned - 2001 Ford Mustang
  By Tunnel Rat - July 27 - 9:43 am

  This car puts a smile on my face every time I get in. I owned two other Stangs and this is the best naturally aspirated Mustang Ive ever driven. No one can keep up with me on a cloverleaf. It sticks to the road like a go cart.

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  F150 4X Cross Country - 2004 Ford F-150
  By Snohomish - July 27 - 1:17 am

  Lower door seals had to be replaced they were collapsed and allowed dirt and water to get inside the door well. Acceleration is delayed for about a second after one "punches" the gas pedal. Rotors had to be "turned." Steering wheel would shudder upon putting on the brakes at speeds of 55 mph. Interior design is outstanding - very comfortable on a long trip. Suspension is outstanding.