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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  I love my car - 2004 Ford Taurus
  By Joy Browning - November 10 - 4:31 am

  The day i went to the dealership, I wanted a little Escort. I was at that time very much overweight and I was having a hard time getting out of the car. I was walking into the showroom to purchase the little car, when I spotted this beautiful car with the color of green. I call it silver-green. I test drove it, but I already knew I would buy the car. And I love it.

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  Ford Taurus - 1998 Ford Taurus
  By steve - November 10 - 2:02 am

  This has been a fairly reliable car. Used it mostly over the road. I did have to replace brake rotors at 50,000 miles and just had those replacements turned at 175,000. Does use oil 1 quart every 800 miles started using somewhere around 160,000 to 170,000. Had some overheating problems. I also replaced ujoints at 120,000. Some minimal electrical problems. I get anywhere between 23 to 25 miles per gallon consistently drive mostly 75 on interstate. For the money I paid for the car it has been a great car. I am shooting for 250,000 to 300,000 miles. The ride is not the greatest is a bit on the rough side.

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  REAL TRUCK - 1991 Ford F-350
  By NOTAFORDGUYBUT - November 9 - 11:48 pm

  Im not a Ford guy, but found this cherry truck and couldnt pass it up. The thing is a beast, tows anything and seats 6 adults! 15mpg towing my pontoon boat and carrying people isnt that bad. Very easy ride on highway. People get the heck outa your way!

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  Reliable, durable, no frills - 2005 Ford Ranger
  By iowadoc - November 9 - 4:34 pm

  Bought this at the end of the whole "employee discount" deal. Looked on the internet through the Ford web site (which lets you see the actual sticker on the car) to find the most basic Ranger XLT 4x4. Im finding I like this truck more and more. I like the simple-almost-austere but very functional design. Fit and finish is very good. First weekend I had it I drove it to Kansas City, 350 miles. My youngest daughter, who gets car sick, complemented the ride. Plenty of room for our gear behind the seats. Handles very well. Now, with about 3K on the engine Im getting 20 mph in everyday driving, 22 highway. I recommend this vehicle without reservations.

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  Best Value on the Market - 2003 Ford Taurus
  By David - November 9 - 3:19 pm

  I actually decided to buy a Ford Taurus after I had rented several. For the money there is no better car. A lot of features, smooth ride and sporty, yet family oriented looks. I have put a lot of miles on this car in a short time and have had absolutely no problems.I am very impressed with the amount of quality Ford put into this car for the price they sell at. The handling and response of the Taurus is outstanding. It has kept me out of several accidents.

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  Clear - 2000 Ford Mustang
  By Robert - November 9 - 1:50 am

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  2002 Mustang GT Convertible - 2002 Ford Mustang
  By Mary - November 8 - 8:04 pm

  I love this car! Its fast, sporty, comfortable and a real head turner. Outstanding handling and pick up.

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  All around good truck - 2002 Ford F-150
  By Shawn - November 8 - 6:15 pm

  Bought it used with 20,200 miles. No engine problems. Did have issues with parking brake setup. Mechanism froze up and brake shoes were toasted. Seems to be common problem with the rear disc brake/drum parking brake setup due to infrequent use of parking brake. Easy fix for $28 with parts from auto stores. Gas mileage is what you expect from full size truck - 15 city/18 highway.

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  I LOVE my 04 ZTS Sedan! - 2004 Ford Focus
  By SaraQuinn - November 8 - 3:59 pm

  I love the extra kick the 2.3L engine gives over the LX & SE versions, especially when passing the slower drivers in front of me. Im glad I bought the 04 model before they took away the character of the car with the 05 model, like the homage to the Ford Oval in the dashboard vents, etc. The drivers cockpit has a nice tight feel to it & the location of the all controls is great. The car handles well, even at higher speeds (70-80 MPH). I never feel like the car is going to break away from under me. I havent had to do any major work on the car & Im at 34,000 miles in 19 months. The power sun/moonroof adds quite a bit of fun.

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  F150 Work Horse - 1997 Ford F-150
  By Bolio - November 8 - 3:40 pm

  I have had my F150 since I specd it out. When I received it, the dealer said it was the 1st LB 4X4 super cab in AZ. The tires were too small, upgraded to 285x16 on stock wheels. Only problems in 8 yrs: R 4x4 actuator module, replaced cylinder #8, intake valve malfunction. Pulls 7000 lb trailer up mountains no problem. Pulls out stumps, 4X4 great, very comfortable. Gas mileage is medium (14-17). Repainted 2 years ago, but paint was OK before that (Bright Red). Had a dent in bed to be repaired. Headlights have faded over. Bedliner a good investment. Very reliable, very versatile, good looking truck. (Got compliments the first years I had it all the time).