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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  Love It - 2006 Ford Escape
  By GCS - February 14 - 10:37 pm

  Have had this SUV since 19 Dec 2005. I have not had any problems with the car at all. Traded in a Ford Taurus 4D and find this vehicle to be a pleasure to drive. I have sons that are 6 ft and this SUV has the room to allow them to be comfortable in the rear seats. Great travel vehicle.

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  MY FAVORITE SUV - 2002 Ford Escape
  By CAROLYN - February 14 - 4:36 pm

  I love to drive my new (used) Escape. It is sporty, sexy & fast! It fits into tight spots yet plenty of room for my 64" hubby. I went from a Lexus to my Escape and I just think it was the best choice for us since we spend 1/2 our year in the mountain snow and the other in the city. I chose this over a Lexus LX470 after reading many reports online, I chose to buy this and very happy I did.

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  2011 Ford Fusion Hybrid - Drivers Ultimate Bliss - 2011 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By csavas - February 14 - 3:22 pm

  Day 60 of ownership of my new 2011 Ford Fusion Hybrid. I have owned Chevys exclusively all my life, and always have loved them. Started researching new cars, innovative, stylish, technology, and "good" gas mileage. After 8 weeks of visiting dealers, test drives, I convinced myself to make the jump to Ford, all because of the Fusion Hybrid. All I can say, "Im Lovin It", and Im not speaking about the Golden Arches, but rather the Blue Oval Badge. This car is AmaZing. Stylish, nice lines beautifully revealed by the Tri-Platinum White color. So quiet, so smooth, its like a magic carpet ride cruising down the highway. Technology beaucoup, and plenty of power, with super handling. "Own One"

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  Great econo-box - 1996 Ford Escort
  By missouri_escort - February 14 - 2:58 pm

  I purchased the car new on April Fools day of 1996. It has been great with no major problems. I replaced the speedometer at 84,000 miles, a weak point with all Fords of this era miles and timing belt, it will happen to all of them, at 100000+ miles. I replaced the ignition pack at 110,000. It will do 30+MPG on trips and 26 MPH town and country. With 113,000+ miles it still runs like new on original tune and spark plugs.

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  2005 Mustang Convertible - 2005 Ford Mustang
  By Jason Martin - February 14 - 1:03 pm

  This is one awesome car. Mine is a 5 speed and it sure does fly. It is incredible in the turns as well.

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  Enjoyed it! - 2001 Ford Explorer Sport
  By Saved me from injury - February 14 - 10:13 am

  I really enjoyed my Explorer. I hit a median at 50 miles per hour (black ice) and I believe my Explorer kept me from getting injured. It took a beating but I didnt get a scratch. Also, it drove fantastic in the rain...Im going to miss it!

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  I like comfort, safety and a lot of room - 2005 Ford Five Hundred
  By Expatpr - February 14 - 12:53 am

  The 500 LTD is great car for the price. The mileage is terrific 27 hwy 19+ city and it has plenty of power for the average driver. (I should know, my other car is a Marauder) It handles very well and brakes better than a lot of other cars. I train company drivers and drive a lot of different makes and models of cars. The 500 has tremendous visibility and lets you sit in a position allowing you to see everything around you in any driving situation. The trunk is huge and well designed to put cargo into it and get it back out without struggling or having to bend over too far to get to it. It seats 5 adults comfortably and is quiet enough to converse without shouting.

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  Our Jet Black Stang! - 1997 Ford Mustang
  By Troy and Jenn - February 13 - 10:27 pm

  Finally, finally we have a Mustang -- the car we always wanted. Bought used in almost perfect condition in and out. Drives sweet, looks fast. Wish there was a little more power in the standard but that is what the GT model is for. New to a convertible but lovin it. Stereo sounds awesome, came with stock tape radio but put 240 watt Pioneer cd deck in and no need to say more. Mustangs hold their value and are reliable and are just a fun ride.

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  RIDES LIKE A BAD HORSE - 2001 Ford Explorer Sport
  By JB007 - February 13 - 10:00 am

  SOON AFTER I BOUGHT THIS TRUCK IN OCT 2000 I SUSPECTED I HAD MADE A BAD PURCHASE. AFTER ALMOST THREE YEARS OWNING IT I HAVE CONFIRMED WHAT A HUGE MISTAKE I MADE. FOR STARTERS THIS TRUCK LOSES IT WHEN IT HITS A POTHOLE OR A SPEED BUMP. THE TAIL SWAGS TO THE SIDE. IT OFFERS A VERY UNCOMFORTABLE AND BUMPY RIDE OVER ANYTHING THAT ISNT PERFECT ASPHALT. THE TITANIUM FINISH ON THE DOOR HANDLES HAVE COME OFF AND NOW LOOK AN UGLY DISCOLORED GRAY. THE INSTRUMENT PANEL AND DASHBOARD ARE SO BADLY ASSEMBLED THAT IT SQUEAKS AND RATTLES. I HAVE HAD TO TAKE IT TO THE DEALERSHIP SEVERAL TIMES.

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  KIng Ranch - 2001 Ford F-150
  By Sandra McCullough - February 13 - 10:00 am

  Excellent pricing. After purchase received western blanket and leather notebook to match interior styling from Ford. Fantastic truck! I love my Ford!