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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  If you have to buy American........... - 2003 Ford Taurus
  By tbaran - July 19 - 2:00 am

  The car is a good overall value; if you are someone who’s only interest in driving is to get you from point A to B! The engine is strong, if only the brakes and suspension were designed as well. The braking is a very weak part of this package with the suspension close behind. The steering offers virtually no feedback for road feel. It you are a driver get a Passat! If you have to buy American, such as I, then this is a good deal. I have driven American all my life, but my last car was a base 1995 Jetta with the weakest engine you can imagine! The cheap 95 Jetta right now feels more solid and is more fun to drive than this brand new car!

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  F-150 review - 2001 Ford F-150
  By George Ortiz - July 19 - 2:00 am

  Excellent ride and power, poor turning radius, fair to midland gas milage for a truck with a 5.4 I guess it is OK. Comfortable interior

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  1999 Ford Explorer - 1999 Ford Explorer
  By Anonymous2002 - July 19 - 2:00 am

  I typically buy foreign cars, but decided to try an American made car. Started with a 1996 GMC Jimmy. This was a piece of crap and I dumped it after the warranty ran out. So I decided to try one more American made car. I checked out the Explorer. It looked really nice. The inside was designed nicely. I have had this car for 4 years now and it has been wonderful. I plan on keeping it for at least another 4 years.

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  Much improved for 03 ...... - 2003 Ford Expedition
  By MCC - July 19 - 2:00 am

  The 2003 Expedition is greatly improved frame and body from earlier versions. The 5.4L motor and tranny are still the same as earlier models. Overall Im very satisfied with the new Expedition and it tows my boat well. Good fit and finish on most areas. I installed a cargo mat in the rear, so the 3rd row seats are not really a factor for me, but they are there if I need them. Who decided to put cup holders down by your feet anyway? That is the biggest obstacle to entering and exiting this truck!

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  LOVE MY PONY! - 1999 Ford Mustang
  By SOPHIE - July 19 - 1:58 am

  Have never had any problems with my 1999 Mustang convertible. I love this car! Am considering trading for the 2005, but having a hard time parting with this one.

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  Diesel is the only option - 2005 Ford Excursion
  By JimM - July 19 - 1:43 am

  My diesel Excursion gets better mileage than my neighbors Grand Cherokee and my other neighbors Blazer and frankly, they are dumbfounded. They cant even begin to comprehend what it is like to be able to travel 800+ miles on a single tank of fuel. The idea of being able to tow their boat up to their lake home without having to stop for gas doesnt seem possible to them, because it isnt. One of the big 3 needs to continue producing a full-sized, diesel- powered SUV. Buy one of these trucks while you still can and make sure you buy a diesel. Will a diesel hold its value? Try even finding a used diesel Excursion that has less than 100,000 miles on it and see how much the owner is asking.

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  A good "starter" car - 1997 Ford Contour
  By jenbeaner - July 19 - 1:33 am

  I agree with other reviewer - I would only recommend a Contour to a high schooler buying their 1st car. I bought this car 5 years ago, and it started out with minor problems - the cup holders breaking (was told they "overload" too easily). But the last 2-3 years, Ive noticed every time it gets humid, rainy or even when I have my air on, my car wants to stall. I know someone else who has a Contour, & the same thing happens to hers. Now my temp gauge is not functioning, & not too long ago, my cruise control broke because of an electrical problem (too expensive to even bother). I also was surprised to find I couldnt get my car out of park one day also because of an electrical problem.

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  Born to Last - 1996 Ford Escort
  By Need2know - July 19 - 12:52 am

  My Escort has 129,00 miles and is still going strong. My friends wanted me to purchase a new car years ago, but I am glad I didnt. Beside normal maintenance (oil, belts, brakes, spark plugs), I replaced the water pump and radiator. Sure those last two repairs costs a few bucks, but it is a lot cheaper than a new car payment. The car has always started (even in the MN cold). The car has plenty of power, but I dont believe in going over 65 miles/hour. If you want a car to do 90 on the interstate, this car isnt for you Small cars do not handle the road vibrations and noise at high speeds. My only real complaint is that the speedometer went out in year three.

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  First Explorer - 2005 Ford Explorer
  By Fred - July 18 - 11:29 pm

  I am delighted with this SUV. I previously had a 2001 Mitsubishi Montero Sport 2WD and a Chevy Blazer 2WD. The V-8 power is great. It far surpasses both the Montero and the Blazer. The luggage area is bigger than all of the other SUVs we looked at. The Explorer has all of the features of a luxury car with the towing ability and 4x4 off-road features.

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  2.3L makes the car - 2004 Ford Focus
  By mtk - July 18 - 5:47 pm

  Bought a year ago and absolutely love the car. Unfortunately Ford decided to drop the 2.3L in the ZX3 for 2005 which I believe was a great combination. I had a 6 cylinder Ranger that sucked gas and this car does better but not great. I tend to "drive" the car and get around 24 mpg city without the A/C on - average, not bad. The car only cost me $10k brand new (with rebates and A plan). Ive spruced up the interior a bit as there are many aftermarket items out there for the Focus which personalize without being gaudy. Fun to drive. No problems to date - go out and buy one used if you can find one. Make sure it is a manual to maximize the fun factor. Did I say it was fun to drive?