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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  An Excellent Change - 2004 Ford Expedition
  By Gloria Cuellar - April 10 - 10:00 am

  I had never driven an SUV,until I test drove an Navigator and then an expedition.As you see I chose an expedition and I love it.Driving difference between Navigator and Expedition ,NONE.

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  ITS RIGHT - 2001 Ford Taurus
  By JT Hernandez - April 9 - 7:32 pm

  Car is ok to drive, dependable, reliable, good gas mileage, pretty decent ride for long trips. Regular maintenance and you will be fine (oil changes, transmission service every 50,000 miles or so). Brake rotors major problem, they warp very easily. Even with them NEW, stopping distance is mediocre, need 4-discs instead of drums in the back. Seats are slightly uncomfortable I feel the need to adjust the seat constantly. Needs more HP and response to throttle. Also, if you intend to drive this car aggressively beware engine oil pressure jumps up very quickly. Only thing I have replaced is the serpentine belt 117k miles.

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  Great car for the money - 2006 Ford Taurus
  By Steve - April 9 - 2:33 pm

  I looked a few cars and few equaled the price to value that this car had. Sure it doesnt hold the value of a Camry or a Accord, but then again, if you keep your cars for 150,000 miles, who cares. This car and the one I bought before it (97) are great cars. I put 145,000 miles on my old Taurus and no problems. Great price too.

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  40k and its ready for the junk heap - 1999 Ford Taurus
  By JoeCool - April 9 - 11:32 am

  A poorly constructed, planned obsolescent American embarrassment. All major components have worn out at about 40-50k miles. A strong reason why the Japaneses are decimating the American auto industry. Not recommended

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  Great Car for the money - 2005 Ford Mustang
  By ecgirard2 - April 9 - 10:33 am

  Overall this has been a very good car. The build quality is great and the car performs very well. The issues that I have had have been small and are not unexpected with a new car. The only issue I have had has been the check engine light came on twice at once at about 600 and 1,000 miles. The dealership kept the car for about a week each time to diagnose the issue. I am not entirely sure how they fixed the issue but I have not had it reoccur in the past 2,000 miles.

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  Bang for the Buck - 1994 Ford Probe
  By Smackcat - April 9 - 12:24 am

  Good car for the dollar. 2.5L V6 humps with the 5-speed. Just wish the KLZE engine was available in the U.S. Extreme acceleration for a 164HP engine. The 5-speed is a must, FUN FUN FUN! Tires are expensive. Both CV joints pooped on me. Interior rattles like a snake, but all of them do. Exhaust is tuned nicely. Looks arent bad, very customizable car. Car doesnt get much glory considering its a domestic, Ford. Surprises many! Sits low to the ground, not snow-friendly. If the engine goes, KLZEs can be imported from Canada or Asia. The KLZE engine is directly swappable and pushes 200HP. Can you imagine?

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  Gray Shadow on the Bayou - 2002 Ford F-150
  By Jimmy R. Comeaux - April 8 - 10:59 pm

  This F-150 has been one of the most enjoyable vehicles that I have ever owned. The truck is gray two toned and it does turn a lot of heads. I drive about 50/50 city vs hwy. The highway driving experience is very comfortable for myself and up to as many as 4 passengers. One of the most enjoyable and rewarding trips Ive made was driving from Lafayette, LA. to Ada, OK. My mother and I left from Lafayette and picked up my aunt and uncle in Houston, Tx. From Houston we drove up to Oklahoma. I never one single complaint during the entire trip by either of the elderly family members.

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  Great Family Rig - 2002 Ford Expedition
  By Family Rig - April 8 - 10:38 pm

  Our Expedition has exceeded my expectations. I commuted 172 miles round-trip for over 1 1/2 years and the comfort is indescribable. Additionally I drove from CA - New Mexico more than once without worry with the entertainment system it kept the kids from fighting and getting restless during the long ride. I never have to worry about having enough room for our luggage and toys, it all fits. The roof rack provides an extra place to transport belongings as well. I love my Expedition, except the gas mileage.

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  Great little big truck - 2003 Ford Ranger
  By Sheldon Metler - April 8 - 10:11 pm

  My 2003 Ranger Edge is the first Ford I have owned. I have to say it has been a great truck. I have 29,300 miles on it and have no complaints or problems to report. I do take great care of it and it is a garaged vehicle. I have added many extras to give it an added EDGE. It is definitely an eye catcher and I get many compliments on the truck. My only gripe would be the 15 miles to the gallon I get but that is with an added supercharger. It originally got on average 17 to 18 but for an extra 75 horsepower its worth the extra trips to the pump. I plan on owning this truck till the wheels fall off. I will buy another probably in 2007 but I will always have a special feel for my 2003. GREAT TRUCK!

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  05 ESCAPE XLT with 75,000 miles - 2005 Ford Escape
  By JW - April 8 - 9:52 pm

  My Escape is a company car. At first I wasnt happy getting it, but after driving it 75,000 miles in 2 years, I now luv it. It has proven to be comfortable and reliable (I drive it aggressively). The V6 is torquey and quick. The interior design is functional and comfortable. I carry 4 adults, the rear passengers never complain.This SUV has been extremely reliable (NOTHING has broken) and seems indestructible when driven hard regularly. Ive taken it off road a few times the AWD was all I need to get through the deep mud. A snow storm dumped 25" and this SUV drove through unplowed roads and snow mounds without a problem.This SUV has proven to be tough, comfortable, reliable, speedy, and sporty. I recommend it.