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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  2nd Taurus in family - 2005 Ford Taurus
  By John O. - August 23 - 5:13 pm

  I really didnt know which car I should get for commuter car. I drive about 30k per year and with cost of gas needed something to get 25+. This car fills that need nicely. Ok sound system, solid quiet ride, roomy trunk. As commuter cars go, this one rocks.

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  Stang tastic - 2006 Ford Mustang
  By Bob - August 23 - 7:00 am

  On a warm summer day, top down, music blasting, yet you can still hear the rumble of the V-8 engine. When you put your foot into the throttle it jumps like a thoroughbred race horse. Theres nothing like cruising with the top down.

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  225K And Still Going - 2000 Ford F-150
  By John C - August 23 - 2:59 am

  I drive this truck every day, all day. Could not ask for a more reliable dependable truck. As a project manager for a construction company my truck is my office. I have changed oil every 3-4k, gone through several sets of brakes and tires but never even so much as an oil leak. The a/c system holds up even in the Texas heat during long times on idle. Mine is the vinyl mat, manual window, work truck version but still very comfortable with a great ride. Mileage is good with the 4.2l v6 and automatic, at best Ive seen 19mpg average is about 15-16. A little preventative maintenance goes a long way with these trucks.

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  Ford Swiss Army Knife (Explorer) - 2005 Ford Explorer
  By James Eroh - August 23 - 1:23 am

  The only true complaints about my Explorer have to do with why they put carpet in a four wheel drive. Out of the box my Explorer has never left me stuck for more than a minute. I just would back up and charge again! I bought the beast for Sierra snows when my job had me there for a year, but this thing cruises down the interstate so smooth that it is hard for some people to realize just how tough terrain is so easy in the Explorer. I average 19-20 mpg, with the worst being 16 mpg during an off road adventure trip.

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  Fun is a four letter word spelled FORD! - 2001 Ford Mustang
  By AJ - August 22 - 6:17 pm

  The FORD Mustang GT Convertible is a blast and a treat to enjoy. Even as a 2001 model purchased used online, I am pleased with the performance. The only ding would be the fake hood scoop leaks water a good half an hour after a car wash and thus leave water spots on the hood, etc. Otherwise, let the good times roll!

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  Probe SE - 1993 Ford Probe
  By SilverBullit - August 22 - 6:15 pm

  Very fun to drive. 30-40 more HP would be nice without having to upgrade to the V6. Very reliable, just recently spun a rod bearing @ 140,000+ miles. Otherwise no major problems. Hard to find GOOD brakes, certain brands are better. Would recommend to anyone who wants a two seater that is good on gas.

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  The Best Explorer EVER! - 1991 Ford Explorer
  By Mrs. M - August 22 - 6:05 pm

  I bought my 2 door, 4WD Eddie Bauer Explorer as a birthday present to myself, and it has been a gift that keeps on giving! Hands down, the most comfortable, reliable, versatile rig Ive ever owned, and it still looks good going down the road. Both of my kids learned to drive in it, and it never even balked at the abuse. (Of course they abused it! They are kids!) It is now pushing 200,000 miles, and I am agonizing over if I should prepare to rebuild her or move on. Even the newer Explorers arent the rig this one is. As long as I can keep it on the road, it has a home with me.

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  bargain buying - 1999 Ford Escort
  By jp - August 22 - 4:28 pm

  Good car for the price. Gets usually over 30 mpg if you drive right.

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  The Best for the money - 2005 Ford Explorer
  By devdog - August 22 - 4:25 pm

  Purchased as Ford began their employee pricing plan for all. The Explorer originally wasnt on the list, but I was surprised after driving one. I considered the Pathfinder, 4-Runner and other 6-7 passenger mid-sized SUVs. It accelerated as well, rides as well, handles as well and looks as good as all other truck based SUVs on the market. I dont do any heavy offroading so it is perfect for the fishing trail or snow covered road. I traded an Murano for this vehicle due to problems with the Murano and the fact that it could not handle the occasional fishing trail. I added a NAV system, new air intake and exhaust to complete the package. You can not get a better vehicle for the price.

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  Constant Repairs - 2000 Ford Windstar
  By Terry Dullaghan - August 22 - 1:12 pm

  Purchased with 29,000 on it. Vehicle now has 65,000. In 36,000 miles we have replaced the front axle once, the transmission, the ABS system, various electrical systems and the head gasket. I purchased this for my daughter and her three children and it is the most unreliable vehicle we have ever owned. It appears Ford products start self destructing right at 55,000 miles and beyond.