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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  2005 T-BIRD CONVERTIBLE WITH HARD TOP - 2005 Ford Thunderbird
  By judy - July 29 - 12:24 am

  I enjoy returning to my car and finding it surrounded by people admiring it or getting a thumbs up while on the highway. The car is a pleasure to drive a lot of power and control. The interior is quiet and luxurious.

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  Never buy the first model of a car - 2001 Ford Escape
  By Brandy - July 28 - 7:10 pm

  I made the mistake of buying an Escape a few months after it came out. I loved it until it stalled on the interstate after only 25,000 miles. Now that it has 115,000 miles, I have replaced 7 sensors, the alternator, the radiator overflow cup, an engine valve, two sets of brakes, and two sets of tires. Not to mention it was recalled three different times as well. I had it tuned up three out of the four years I have had it, but it didnt help. I also hate the gear shifter being in the way of the radio since I have knocked it into neutral on several occassions while trying to change the station. Since this car has been so "reliable", I am switching to a Honda or Toyota soon.

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  The Diesel is Awesome! Great SUV. - 2005 Ford Excursion
  By Chris - July 28 - 12:48 pm

  This SUV is AWESOME! I am getting 16- 17MPG in city and 21-24mpg hwy. With a 6500lb SUV with 325hp and 560lb torque This beast is quicker than my V6 Mitsu Car and is getting within 2mpg fuel economy on the hwy. Much better choice than my minivan for my 3 kids. Twin girls load easy behind the driver on the 60% bench while letting me flip up and load my 3yr old son in the 3rd row. This leaves PLENTY of room for 3 more adults in back. There is tons of room for the double stroller and luggage behind the 3rd row WOW! Ford is ending production in SEPT replacing it with a 07 stretched Expedition. Get one before they are gone. With Family Plan Pricing a Limited Diesel 2-5K under invoice.

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  Probably not with the $$ - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By Roadtripper - July 28 - 10:00 am

  Several issues from the start, power seats broke, stereo didnt work, moon roof track broke, auto seat adjustment broke and this was all with the first 5,000 miles. Power steering replaced at 20,000. Purchased extended warranty to 75,000. Started taking to dealer at 56,000 for sound of gear grinding. Dealer unable to locate problem for 5 visits. At 75,500 dealer locates problem and refused to cover, new differential, $1,000. Ford states it is up to dealer as to coverage. Automatic transmission needed replaced at 76,000. Probably 80% of driving is highway. Not a dependable vehicle.

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  Great family vehicle - 2006 Ford Freestyle
  By newfrstylawd06 - July 28 - 6:13 am

  Just got the Limited AWD with NAV, adjust pedal, safety option, reverse sensing, DVD, 2nd row buckets. Chose this over minivans and SUVs after months of research. LOVE IT! A lot of bang for the buck over Honda or Toyota vans if you can give up sliding doors and both rows folding flat. For a family of 4 this is more than enough room and a great look. Also, no one knows what it is. All of my MOM friends are amazed by its comfort and room. Its like a super wagon more than a van. It handles like a car more than a truck which I like. The drivers seat is so supportive & accommodating to a short driver ( better than previous cars). My 61" husband also has plenty of room. Great alternative to minivan.

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  Silly gearing - 2012 Ford Focus
  By my2012focus - July 28 - 5:56 am

  In summary, the car is fine for what I wanted, which was a fuel-efficient back and forth to work car. I am extremely happy I bought the S package instead of paying for more ammenities. Had I paid over $20k for this I would have been very disappointed. This car has very low torque below 2000 rpm, which combined with gearing makes it difficult to start and slow to accelerate. Once you get to a certain RPM though, it takes off.

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  99 Ranger - a piece of junk - 1999 Ford Ranger
  By jukenukem - July 28 - 2:53 am

  Not satisfied with this truck and will never buy a Ford again. Too many mechanical problems where do I start? Poor performance with regards to hp (155). Mileage isnt too bad for fuel economy, but can be improved. Hate the flareside (step) bed. The bed lacks enough room for a 4x8 sheet of plywood. Its width is only 41 inches. Dont waste your money on this one, unless youre looking for a toy because thats what this is. With the split bench seat in front, it lacks any storage. The two seats in the back can only seat a child, but still not enough room for safety. Suspension is stiff with Off Road option.

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  99 Taurus - the Best, the Beast! - 1999 Ford Taurus
  By Moonman - July 28 - 1:10 am

  I got a great deal on this new 99 in Jan. 2000. It has the 24v engine & the standard SE package. I drive it 900 miles to Fla. & 900 back twice a year with only an oil change before the trip. To work and church are both 4.5 mi. so it does get up to operating temperature most times its driven. The only thing that has broken is the accelerator cable (June 05) and it took forever to get the part as it seems none have ever broken before & none could be found locally. I love driving this car! It accelerates VERY well, and surprises a lot of "tuner" cars off the line. It gives great mileage on the interstate, but, with my heavy foot I use a lot of fuel. So Im careful. Still 100% stock. Love it!

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  Start your Repair Fund Now - 1998 Ford Explorer
  By Wulf - July 27 - 6:41 pm

  Weve had nothing but problems with this car. The electrical systems fail constantly. Weve had problems with the lights, the brakes, the turn signals, the power doors, the transmission, and the gauges.

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  Outstanding - 2003 Ford F-150
  By John Larson - July 27 - 5:56 pm

  The pickup is solid. Every time I hit a chuck hole I wait for a rattle or vibration. There are none. I get precisely 20 mpg on the road. Thats good. The seating positions me on top of the road. Almost like driving a cab-over. It has never been back to the shop in 20,500 miles for even a minor adjustment. It is the best pickup I have ever own. Previously I drove Chevrolet and GMC. They are no comparison. I had too many glitches with them. None with Ford.