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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  I cant believe I bought a Ford! - 2008 Ford Fusion
  By Steve - December 31 - 9:54 am

  I typically bought Audis, Bmws, VWs, I havent bought a US car for quite a few years. I test drived a couple of US cars and decieded to by this Fusion. I now have had it for 2 months and I am still impressed with it. I like the looks, the power, and the options it has. It handles very good. Even in the snow. Ford makes a nice car in the fusion. I would recommend it to anyone.

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  Meets most expectations except MPG - 2010 Ford Escape
  By John O - December 31 - 1:43 am

  Just purchased this vehicle and took it on its maiden highway voyage of 250 miles. The V6 3.0L engine was advertised at 21 mpg city/ 25 mpg Hwy, but I got only 23 mpg on my trip. The interior is roomy enough for 2 kids in the back. Yes, I know theres a 3rd rear seat, but its hardly a full seat. And with fighting boys, I dont think all 3 would survive together in the back. Still, around town and to the baseball fields, they can sit comfortably for a while. SYNC is lots of fun but works sporadically with the iPhone 3G S. The blue-tooth wants to override the USB connection. In summary, great car with plenty of comfort, visibility, and power. MPG was lacking on my highway test.

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  so far so good - 2007 Ford F-150
  By vinnie - December 30 - 8:19 pm

  no problems so far just wish i had gotten xlt model for the better seats xl vinyl seats seem to sit too low to floor and slide off at times

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  disappointed - 2006 Ford F-150
  By ted johnson - December 30 - 11:40 am

  I had always been a GM guy till the bailout, thought I would try Ford. Reviews, awards, Consumer Reports, all stated Ford where the better vehicle. Mine is not. Although happy with the interior and overall ride of the truck, the reliability is not there. I have had it to the dealer 4 times in 9 months. Nothing major but you do the math. I want to like this truck but the veridct is still out.

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  Outstanding Choice - 2010 Ford Edge
  By Huron - December 30 - 10:27 am

  Without a doubt, this is the best vehicle of about 75 that we have owned or leased over the years -- including our other vehicle which is a Honda. The Edge has a great ride, a very smooth and responsive engine, a nice and easy-to-use interior layout and controls, comfortable seats (and that is from someone who has had major back problems for many years), very quiet, and all the luxury items that you would expect from a much more expensive vehicle. It is just the right size for driving around town, parking is a breeze, and it has very adequate luggage space for trips plus excellent space when the rear seat is folded down. From our perspective, we couldnt be happier with this vehicle.

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  Would I Buy It Again? Maybe - 2002 Ford Windstar
  By Windstar Sport - December 29 - 11:26 pm

  I bought this car used in Oct,03.It had only 7600 miles on it. I have driven it up & down the I-5 probably at least 12(roundtrip) times. It has yet to fail me on the road. I love the versatility of using it for people, animals, & camping. However, I have spent at least $6,000 on repairs transmission went out at 89,000 miles. Alternator went out last year. Some computer stuff, too. My brake light & parking brake stays on all the time. Cost 1700 to fix & still cant get the light to turn off. I just paid the car off in Sept/09. Cant afford a new car at this time, so I take good care of it. People still tell me it looks brand new. Next van I get I want seats that go into the floor,

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  Great car - 2001 Ford Mustang
  By stangdude - December 29 - 7:51 pm

  I bought my 01 Stang in 2003. I love my Stang. Ive taken many road trips and every time I get 30 mpg. I have taken care of my Stang, getting the regular maintenance. I do not race the car, but this thing will get up and go. I will be a Stang man for life.

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  the - 2005 Ford Focus
  By chasephotos - December 29 - 12:16 pm

  from my first shift in this car I have disliked the clutch (alot).This car is not ment for any serious preformance driving but is fun to drive around town.The gas mileage has not been what was listed on the sticker or what I had hoped for.I do receive lots of compliments on the new styling (compared to the old focus) and the front/center mounted antena is very "euro".Should have bought a Honda but i have never seen a civc rally car!

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  Great Little Car - 2008 Ford Focus
  By Donald S. Berland - December 29 - 8:55 am

  This is the 4th Ford small car I have owned. This one purchased brand new, the others used. I can only say it has not disapointed me. It is comfortable and mileage is excellent. The bulk of my driving is on the interstate to work and in summer it averages 36mpg, on long trip it has gotten 41mpg. I would take it on more long trips but there is no cruse control. I then have to use my subaru 2005 STi which has cruse, but is very very uncomfortable, and only gets 25mpg. I plan on keeping the car for 5yrs before trading it but will definately get another focus.

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  Love It, but....... - 2004 Ford Escape
  By Gymbodd - December 29 - 2:00 am

  Whoever designed the gear shift on this car never drove their final product. It is maddenly always in the way of the radio and is often difficult to get into the proper gear.