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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  Ford has what is takes - 1991 Ford F-150
  By Jeremy Pearce - February 27 - 7:26 pm

  I bought this 91 F-150 about a year and a half ago with 166,000 miles on it. I have been so happy with it ever since. I live in Alaska and Im out in the Bush (Wasilla/Willow) and I have done my fair share of off-roading with this truck, and it still runs and runs. I have not been too good to my truck but it has been very good to me. I now have over 177,800 miles on its powerful 300 inline 6. I dont even have a V8 and Im loving the power that I get from this thing. It doesnt have the most HP in the world (145hp) but its torque is nice for a six cylinder (265 ft-lbs). I have never had the engine of transmisson rebuilt, or had any major work done. The owner before me also said he never had work done.

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  grand escape - 2011 Ford Escape
  By Harold Anderson - February 27 - 11:24 am

  Fords reliability and technology is far superior. Sometimes parts fail but shouldnt give a bad name. Ford is truly American. Did not go for a bailout but survived on its own. My 2011 Escape is Great! So was my 1951 Custom, my 1967 Fairlane 4DR Hardtop and others.

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  Not too bad, not the best.... - 2005 Ford Escape
  By DMedic911 - February 27 - 9:21 am

  I have owned my Escape LTD for almost two years now and have not had any problems with it. Very comfortable and nice to drive. Not disappointed in my purchase, but would not purchase another one and ready for a change 2 years later. Biggest complaint is gas mileage at an average of 11-12 mpg in the city. I think a full sized truck with a large V8, pulling a motorhome could do better. Resale value not held over two years with only 11k miles.

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  Fun Car - nice sounds - good features! - 2005 Ford Mustang
  By RockinStang - February 26 - 2:12 pm

  This cars wonderful and a ton of fun to drive! I owned a 2002 Mustang, but get to reap some wonderful improvements in the 05, including bigger (and more responsive) engine, the interior styling, and the premium audio system. Mine came with a Magnaflow double cat-back exhaust system giving the V6 the V8 look with a nice loud roar. I average about 20 miles to the gallon probably isnt too bad, but not stellar either ... though not the reason you buy one. For someone like me (no kids) looking for an affordable, fast car, nice sound, leather seats and a head turner, this car is perfect and a nice compliment to my girlfriends Acura TL. :)

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  Great Van! - 2003 Ford Econoline Wagon
  By csubwebczar - February 26 - 10:00 am

  This has been a solid vehicle that fills its intended purposes perfectly. We needed lots of interior room, above average seating capacity, and much more towing capacity; this E150 does it all. I tend to forget Im towing our tent trailer as this van makes it an effortless task. To top it off, though this was the first time we bought a vehicle on the internet, it was a fabulous experience.

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  Its Falling Apart - 2001 Ford Explorer Sport Trac
  By Duncsdad - February 26 - 10:00 am

  Just came from the dealership and it needs new ball joints and seals at 55K highway miles. Estimated cost = $600. Dealer said it was a normal "wear" item. Already had paint (black); 4WD control; oil pan; oil sending unit; and seat bolts replaced under warranty. Have not had trouble with brakes -- yet. Has been in the shop in the last 2 1/2 years more than my 7 previous GM trucks/SUVs were in the last 16 years. Will be my last Ford. I am not putting a dime in thise crate after reading what I may be in for in the near term. Doing research on a new vehicle right now.

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  1st Time F-150 Owner - 2004 Ford F-150
  By tdwest1 - February 26 - 10:00 am

  I love this truck! I looked at all the competing models (yes, including the Titan), but I couldnt stomach going with anything else. The ride quality and feel is head and shoulders above the rest. The interior design is simple and clean. Theres tons of storage and cupholders. The exterior is classy, but tough. The back seat has plenty of room for 3 adults. This truck is perfect for people who want the comfort of a sedan, but also the utility and power of a truck. 5.4L has plenty of power, despite what Edmunds says. Unless you love imports, spend the extra $2000 and buy the F-150, not the Titan.

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  Awesome - 2000 Ford Mustang
  By stang - February 25 - 10:12 pm

  I have read everyones reviews about this Mustang, and I must say, I have had no problems with my car ever! Not only that but the people that I bought it from also had no problems with this car. So Im sorry for those of you who have had bad experiences, mostly it was the fact you had a bad dealer, but the car itself is amazing fast, quick, and very comfortable (for two people, the back seat is kinda small).

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  Good Truck - 1997 Ford F-150
  By TN - February 25 - 10:09 pm

  I bought this new in 1997 and put on 151,000 miles on it in 9 years. It is well built and reliable. The only unscheduled repair was when the transmission broke at 98,000 miles. It was rebuilt for $2,000. Otherwise, absolutely no problems. Now at 151,000 miles it needs some repair but it shouldnt be too bad considering the low repair history so far. Id say investing $2,000 now would buy me another 3 years of trouble free driving. Dont be afraid to grab one of these used if it has a clean bill of health. It will last you a long time.

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  My Stang - 2002 Ford Mustang
  By Arlana Pinson - February 25 - 7:12 pm

  Many say that the Ford Mustang is not safe to drive in the rain or in the snow. I have driven it in both weather types. I believe that it does just fine. The thing to worry about is the driver. You know youre driving a sports car, therefore, be careful and everything else is fine.