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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  New owner - 2016 Ford Fusion
  By M.S.A - June 15 - 6:01 pm

  I dont know much about these cars. I just recently purchased a 2016 fusion se. I liked how it handled when I test drove it, the ride is smooth and its sharp looking. Anyway, I have only had the car for almost 4 weeks and noticed going downhill the rpms run high and the car slows down a bit. Is this normal? Ive already had a couple problems with it and have had to take it back to the dealer which is a 45 min trip one way and Im just tired of dealing with them

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  T-bird soars - 2004 Ford Thunderbird
  By wilthefinn - June 15 - 10:00 am

  From the minute I saw it at the SF auto show I knew I wanted one. I put 3K down and waited 8 months and when it was delivered to the dealer the sales mgr called me. He said the whole place was abuzz and I should come see why. As I drove up it was parked on Market Street and there was a crowd. Since that day this turquoise beauty has turned heads. People have come up and asked a zillion questions, some ask me for my card and laugh when they realize I dont sell cars. This thing sells itself. With or without the black hard top its a delight to the senses.

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  Escape Limited - style and substance - 2004 Ford Escape
  By Mr. Burns - June 15 - 10:00 am

  The 2004 Escape Limited provides a great combination of performance provided by an over 200 HP V6, reasonable fuel ecomony and impressive interior style and comfort. The Mach audio improves the interior ambiance through excellent sound. Put on your favoritie CD from the 6 disc in dash system and enjoy. If you drive a lot of miles like I do, in weather that can turn nasty (Michigan winters), the Escape is a great choice.

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  The Great Escape - 2004 Ford Escape
  By DRetman - June 15 - 10:00 am

  I am very pleased with my escape. It handles well in all weather situations. It is fun to drive and has been extremely reiable. I am a short person and I sit very comfortable in the vehical, I feel I can see the traffic very well when I am on the highway. I love the 6 disc CD player, I feel no matter where I am going I have escaped for a short period of time while I am driving......

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  Escape - 2004 Ford Escape
  By BGRA - June 15 - 10:00 am

  I genuinely adore my Ford Escape. The only faults I have with them is the cigarette lighter broke early and when pushing the gas pedal, at times it feels as if Im not getting the immediate response that I should be at times. A friend purchased the same vehicle and has the exact same problems. Her interior design is better than mine in my opinion because I have an open console. I feel the gear shift is too long and placed where it interfers with the radio adjustments. All things aside, it has excellent room, it great on handeling and is overall a wonderful vehicle.

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  The Best - 2003 Ford Expedition
  By Dad of 3 - June 15 - 10:00 am

  This is an excellent vehicle. Plenty of power and great ride with rear IRS. The DVD player is great for the kids and is easily out of the way when not in use. Steering wheel controls for the audio and A/C are convenient and safer than hunting around the dash. Owned a Tahoe before this and will never go back. The keypad on the drivers door makes it easy to lock it and leave it running to warm up on cold mornings.

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  My Stang.... - 2003 Ford Mustang
  By JanPav - June 15 - 10:00 am

  I am 47 years old and am probably going thru a midlife crisis. I bought the Mustang yesterday. Crisis over!!! Plus my 17 year old thinks I am totally the greatest!. LOVE the car!!!! Maroon with gray interior. How great is that!

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  Snake Bit - 2004 Ford Mustang
  By OH YEA - June 15 - 10:00 am

  This car really has me pumped up. when you get in and turn the key you feel the testosterone flowing in larg amounts. so go out and get your own.

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  Oh Yeah - 2004 Ford Mustang
  By danman26 - June 15 - 10:00 am

  Anoter great addition to the mustang family.

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  Very first truck - 2004 Ford Ranger
  By John C. Stec - June 15 - 10:00 am

  I needed a truck for all the side work I do.