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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  Head Turner - 2004 Ford Mustang
  By grafixwhiz - July 15 - 2:00 am

  Ive had it a little over a week, but have not yet had the top up. The most time spend on the road has been on twisty backroads at irresponsible rates of speed. Cant seem to find the desire to commute to work in it, if I wanted a car like that, Id buy a Honda Elephant or somesuch BoreMobile.

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  excellent - 2004 Ford Mustang
  By speedpunk22 - July 15 - 2:00 am

  Its the best car i have ever had and is so good to drive the horese powere that it gives is incredible im going to get another onefor my wife.you can go almost anywere i have driven it to florida and thee engine was with me 100% of the time. Good job Ford

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  Ford - 2004 Ford F-150
  By Kyle Dick - July 15 - 2:00 am

  Very fun to drive, best ford yet

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  Minor changes - 2004 Ford F-150
  By durdeng - July 15 - 2:00 am

  I changed the front suspension by adding a 2 1/2 spacer from day star to even out the truck. I have also added an airaide cold air system for additional power. This truck has met all expectations and with some personal changes makes it even more enjoyable to drive.

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  Sweet Ride - 2006 Ford Escape
  By rich - July 14 - 9:46 pm

  Great family hauler. Switching from 2 door Explorer. Wanted convenience of 4 doors. Handles like a car and looks like a truck. Comfortable seating and attractive interior. Acceptable gas mileage. Much cooler than the Honda CR-V. Great ride so far. My wife and I both love to drive it.

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  Great Truck Since Day 1 - 2001 Ford F-150
  By cdmorgan76 - July 14 - 6:19 pm

  I have never had a problem with my King Ranch. I have put 77,000 miles on the truck since I bought it new in March 2001. Overall I have had a great experience. I wish all Fords were built as well as my King Ranch.

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  age and comfort - 1997 Ford Contour
  By frank hart - July 14 - 4:18 pm

  Purchased this car from a private party with 27000+ miles August 2005 the car is clean inside and out, no dents or rust. Problem being our age (70-75), we need a better riding car. This make and size is perfect for a younger person.

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  I love my SVT! - 2004 Ford Focus
  By Dubs - July 14 - 4:10 pm

  Ive had my SVT ZX-5 for over 2 years now, and I love the car more now than I did when I bought it. The car loves an autocross course and twisty back roads. The silver exterior and the black leather with red insert interior look great.

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  Awesome! - 2005 Ford Explorer
  By Acb - July 14 - 2:21 pm

  I was pleasantly surprised when I test drove my Ford. It has everything I need or want in a vehicle - with the exception of good gas mileage. I can now take my whole family on road trips! I traded in my 2005 Mustang for the Explorer and I am very happy - they get the same gas mileage anyway - and I will be safer in the winter when I can take full advantage of the 4WD and there is sooo much more room!

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  Flexerific - 2009 Ford Flex
  By Lisa - July 14 - 12:26 am

  Way to go FORD! Great crossover - looks and performance all in one package. We can load up the family and the dogs, no problem! Consistantly getting 22-24 mpg. Everyone wants to know about the Flex! Super handling and speed.