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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  This is a Ford? - 2008 Ford Taurus X
  By Rob - July 30 - 4:56 pm

  I have stayed away from American cars for the last 20 years. This car changed my mind after six test drives at 6 different dealers. I could not belive this was a Ford. Its not the best looking car on the road but it sure does its job. I have 3 big kids. One of which is 6 ft 5. He fits! Plus we still have room for our stuff. Plus, we can take a friend and still fit. The ride is really nice and it has just enough power to move us a a decent speed. I was more than pleasantly surprised with the standard options. The price was fantastic and it feels like its a well built car. No rattles, the doors close nicely, then engine sounds good. I cant belive this is a Ford.

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  2000 Ranger - 2000 Ford Ranger
  By Jenni Latza - July 30 - 2:34 pm

  GREAT truck. First ever owned. Only problem we have run into and has had to have periodic fixing were the pillar doors (?) that lead the A/C and heater air to the cab. They sometimes jam open or shut. The dealer says this could be because of the salt used in the winters in Ohio. Lubrication helps. Replaced upper control arms once, as roads are very bad in the Cleveland, OH area. Otherwise, a very good vehicle to buy.

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  Black Beauty - 2006 Ford Mustang
  By Mustang Rider - July 30 - 12:16 pm

  I just bought a 2006 Mustang on 2/4/06. I have been sitting in it since then! The car is a joy to drive. Ford did an incredible job with the engine. With a total of 210 horsepower, this baby can move. One of my favorite parts about this car is the sound of the engine; Ford gave it a very "Sporty" sound! The exterior is just as sexy as the Mustangs from the 60s. However once you get inside this baby, you will be amazed at what you get for the money. The gauges have the ability to change to up to 125 different color combinations and has a very "Retro" look. Best of luck on your next car! I hope you pick my new favorite ... the legend...the 2006 Mustang.

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  So far, So Great! - 2012 Ford Focus
  By bald_eagle1 - July 30 - 9:13 am

  I am a 53 year old male and this is my first American made car. After a lot of research and test driving, I decided to buy the Focus instead of a Civic or Elantra. This car handles much better and is quieter than my previous car (2009 Accord). It has a nice "throaty" engine sound and more than adequate "pickup". If it will be as reliable as my Honda, I will be more than happy. My wife is so impressed with this Ford, that she is considering a 2013 Escape!

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  Its good on the inside - 1999 Ford Windstar
  By Nate1tate - July 30 - 3:37 am

  We bought this van because we had a second kid on the way. It was fine for family trips and such at first, but the alternator went with under 60K miles. Had major engine problem that required installation of a special valve and head gasket. Trouble with power sliding doors staying on track. Had tranny gasket leak, speed sensors, etc. After reading these reviews Im worried about the steering and tranny now. Buying used we got an upgraded interior. Thats the best part of the whole van. Im not totally unhappy with it, just tired of spending money on it. Trade value is miserable and makes me want to hold on to a vehicle that will likely cost much more before I can afford another car.

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  After 5 & one half years - 2000 Ford Windstar
  By s lznb - July 30 - 2:09 am

  We bought this vehicle due to the handling and power. The only one close was the Pontiac Montana sport but we couldnt make a deal. This van has never been any trouble, just routine maintenance, still has the OEM battery. Better fuel economy than expected, hwy & town. It has exceeded expectations and is still a pleasure to drive. I would buy another one except the new dash arrangement is unpleasant.

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  I love this car - 2005 Ford Thunderbird
  By ED Weiner - July 30 - 12:42 am

  Leased this car in Florida in February and have had fun with it since. Great top down car. Drove up to NH in May and got more clothing into trunk than I thought that we could. Also used the top well for soft clothing on the long trip. Have had the car in for service only for the 5000 mile oil change. The car has great fit and smooth ride. On long trips I have been averaging 24 miles to the gallon. City about 18mpg which I think is good for a large 8 cylinder. Excellent quality all the way.

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  Love my Excursion - 2005 Ford Excursion
  By EXCMama - July 30 - 12:40 am

  I lifted mine 3", added extra leafs, and 36" tires. It is very fun to drive once you have owned it a while. If you are used to a smaller car, and only drive it once, you will find it difficult to park. I live in the mountains, and the only thing I dont like is the power going up the mountain passes. Im down to about 35mph by the time I hit the Eisenhower tunnel with my horse trailer ... but thats my fault for not going with the turbo diesel. This is definitely the most comfortable SUV to ride in on long trips. (We also own a Denali).

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  Great Car for all around use - 2005 Ford Focus
  By Bob - July 29 - 2:56 pm

  Traded down to Focus from an SUV. The Focus performs well and acceleration is not affected by the number of people in the car like other small cars. I truely enjoy the gas economy. Interior is roomy, seats provide the support and the being able to raise or lower the driverss seat is a good touch. The SES provids most of the nice buttons that are normally not standard in this price class of vehicle. Ride noise is minimal compared to other small cars Ive owned. Handling and ride qualilty are outstanding.

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  As good as it gets - 2007 Ford Focus
  By Daniel Feldman - July 29 - 4:13 am

  This is probably the last affordable station wagon that provides what stations are supposed to: space, with a lot of fuel economy, without paying for the performance of the car. My only complaint would be about the interior design where a few more compartments could be added, and the quality of the materials could be higher. It would be great if all the accessories offered on the British version of this car were available.