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 junk- NEVER AGAIN! - 2000 Ford Windstar
  By Mom of 3 - October 28 - 9:04 am

  From 55,000 - 76,000 miles replaced wheel bearings, electrical components, and ABS system. Also, the car stalled while driving, extremely dangerous. Car repairs totaled more then payments. I decided cut my losses and trade it. Dealer said transmission slipped and is worth $2800. After research I expected a loss but that was more than anticipated. So I went home defeated. I pulled into my driveway and it started to smoke and burn up. Lovely. I would like to buy American but Ford has made this American family poor so save time, aggravation, and money by NOT buying a Windstar. Sorry Ford, but theres a reason why the foreign car industry is doing so well, were tired of being taken advantage of.

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  1995 Explorer - 1995 Ford Explorer
  By tswopejr - October 28 - 3:06 am

  Has the six cylinder in it. Ok on gas mileage, could be better. Never had a major break down. Still running strong at 147,000 miles.

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  Had pretty good luck so far. - 1996 Ford Windstar
  By RonL - October 27 - 3:26 pm

  Bought van in 99 with 33,000 miles. Transmission rebuilt right after purchase under warranty. (Thank you, Ford!) Bought extended warranty, never used it. Items replaced so far - tie rod ends, power steering pump. We tow snowmobiles with it, no problems pulling. Check engine light comes on occasionally, usually after long trips. Very comfortable ride, no major engine problems to date w/ 120,000 miles. Only paid $13k for van in 99, and it has served us well. Not a Honda by any means, but we didnt pay Honda prices. If I get another year or 2 out of this van I think I will have got more than my moneys worth.

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  Last Ford Van - 1999 Ford Windstar
  By mark in cincinnati - October 27 - 10:16 am

  I had no reason not to purchase a Ford with five relatives working for the company. Until my van turned 36k only regular maintenance & recalls were required. Since then: 3 transmissions, antilock brakes, heater core. Luckily I had a great service adviser that allowed me to purchase the extended warranty. So my cost for the transmissions was limited to $700. Factory trained/certified mechanics failed to bolt one of the brackets on the second rebuild requiring the third repair 8K miles later.

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  Great Car, Bad Gas - 2004 Ford Explorer Sport Trac
  By Xena - October 27 - 10:00 am

  This car is very luxurious and spacious. It could fir five heavy adults. Handling is great. The styling and the bed size are perfect. Its perfect to haul furniture, etc. The best part is that its very high and you can see everything on the road. I love it!!!

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  Great Truck - 2004 Ford F-150
  By Sivmem - October 27 - 10:00 am

  I traded in a 2002 Lariat CrewCab fully loaded. My new 2004 is a great truck. It has a heavy feel to it and rides on the highway like a dream. The fuel economy improves daily as the engine breaks in. Overall, I am very, very happy with this vehicle and the dealership I bought it from in Memphis.

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  Best Ford buyI purchased - 2004 Ford Crown Victoria
  By myles haynes - October 27 - 10:00 am

  I purchased this vehicle at a sale through the dealer buyer with 10,500 miles on the odometer> It had its first check-up at 13,000 and everything was up to factory specs. Ive had nothing but good service up to the present at 16,000 miles. This is my second Crown Vic, the other being a 1996 which my son now owns and continues to run good at 96000 miles.

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  Smooth Ride, Classy & Practical Minivan - 2004 Ford Freestar
  By Michele Fitter - October 27 - 10:00 am

  I love how the Freestar handles. Its smooth ride is very similar to the Sienna and the two tone exterior makes it a very classy look. You forget your driving a minivan, except that you have so much room especially with the rear row tucked nicely into the floor.

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  Explorer - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By dd3958 - October 27 - 10:00 am

  this is the finest suv on the road, bar none, a great comfortable ride

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  Love my Pony - 2004 Ford Mustang
  By Pony girl - October 27 - 10:00 am

  I just love the looks of the Mustang. No wonder they have been making them for 40 years. I have had many new cars over the years but Ive never liked one as much as I like my Mustang. I may never drive anything else. What took me so long to get a Mustang? Not only do I love its looks but its fun to drive.