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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  My Iron Maiden - 1992 Ford F-150
  By Sarah G. - January 12 - 11:34 am

  Was a bit skeptical upon purchasing vehicle. The two American vehicles I owned previous were junk, including a Ford Taurus. Bought for the straight six motor. Proved to be a very reliable vehicle. I drove it only sporadically because it was my 2nd vehicle. Started up everytime, even during the coldest New England mornings. I replaced the battery and oil pan during the time I owned it (both were pretty old). Was just about as reliable as my 93 Honda Civic. Im kicking myself for selling it, I would buy another in a heartbeat.

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  More than expected - 2005 Ford Focus
  By CAFFN8D - January 12 - 11:23 am

  With the understanding that the Focus was an econobox, I purchased one new from dealer in summer of 05. After 4+ years ownership, it has performed without fail and has proven itself to be a very capable daily commuter, with occasional weekend duties as a hauler. I drive 45+ miles daily, and feel quite comfortable with the amenities it has. I especially enjoy the small footprint yet torquey responsive engine. I can zip easily throughout traffic, yet blend in as necessary. The hauling capacity is quite surprising for such a small car on the exterior. People at my landfill have expressed their amazement at how much I can fit in the back. Its very durable and capable - I recommend it.

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  Replaced My Tundra - 2010 Ford F-150
  By mongoose - January 12 - 10:07 am

  After my 08 Tundra was totaled in an accident I went shopping for a replacement. I wanted another Tundra, but when the dealership pressed too hard, I went to Ford. When comparing the spec sheets, Ford simply had more of what I was looking for in the right price range. I always like the looks of the F150 better anyway, and now it is competitive on safety. After 3 months with this truck now, I love it. Its my daily commuter as well as a true 2nd family vehicle and big enough to carry the whole hunting crew and all of our equipment.

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  2004 ford explorer - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By ford guy - January 11 - 10:32 pm

  I have a 2004 Ford explorer I bouth it in 2005 with only 25,000 miles five years later this car has been great to me so far I did have a ac/motor problem but it was covered under the warranty. I have done every maintenance that is recommended to this car and I do believe that it will last a lot longer. My parents have a 2005 explorer with almost 200,000 miles on it and only had problem with window motor. I would grade this car a A-.

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  Get the kids out of design department - 2010 Ford Taurus
  By Road Warrior - January 11 - 9:53 pm

  Had an 08 put 60K on it, great car lots of room. 10 is basically same pan with zoom zoom styling. Ford forgot to put a back seat in this version. Too bad. Last year had limo- like room in back, this one has same leg room as Fusion. Roof chop WAY too aggressive. Has passé "Gangsta" look. Its juvenile and restricts outward visibility to point of dangerous like being in a machine gun bunker. Rear headrests block so much that they will cause cut offs on highway. Center console big enough to bury a body in. Why? So whats good? Engine & tranny (carryover), handling not bad for a big car, good mileage for this class, much improved seats (front). Last model was great. Ford sold out for the bling.

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  166,000 and still going with the DOHC mo - 2001 Ford Taurus
  By ElmerPudd - January 11 - 7:27 pm

  I bought my 2001 Taurus in 2002 w/ 14K miles. Today it has 166K miles and the DOHC keeps giving and giving. I have the special SEL interior w/ digital air/heat controls, 6 CD disc change stock w/ excellent audio sound. Even the to DOHC isnt the fastet pig on the street, it will get up to speed rather quickly and muscle down the best of them when need be.

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  Very Unhappy!! - 2008 Ford Escape
  By kiana1 - January 11 - 6:35 pm

  We purchased this vehicle and loved it until all the trouble lights started coming on after you started it and lost all power including steering,odo,etc.4x now it has been in shop ranging from battery to computer. Most unhappy, never be buying Ford again!

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  Good unit - 1993 Ford Bronco
  By Arcticblast - January 10 - 10:38 pm

  I have an Eddie Bauer 93 Ford Bronco identical to the one in the picture. I bought it new, it has been a very good rig with a few problems. The ash tray is impossible to use correctly, the 5.8 liter engine has always used a bit of oil, the push button 4x4 has given me problems as well as the automatic hubs, the seats dont adjust back far enough and the keyless remote entry and remote are impossible to find parts for.

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  all aroud nice car with a small price - 2010 Ford Focus
  By George - January 9 - 12:24 pm

  The SEL has a nice standard package. It handles well and is great in turns. Not to much wind noise and I like the temperature and direction settings on the info screen. Unlike my 08 focus se, there is a light in the back seat so your passengers can see as well as head rests.

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  1 GREAT SUV - 1998 Ford Explorer
  By gene - January 9 - 7:36 am

  Bought this used with 45,000 miles. It now has 81K and have only replaced exhaust and 1 sensor. She still looks great and is parked out side here in the north east year round. Very Durable, and reliable! The 4.0 V6 is a great motor. I guess that is why they are still making it.