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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  Excellent Truck - 2005 Ford Ranger
  By Bill - April 12 - 7:51 pm

  I have used my truck for recreation, work, and general daily duties. Is perfect for trip to hunting due to size and weight. It was preferred by my co-hunters for it compact size and ability. Worked well when building my deck, performed well when loaded with construction supplies. Has been a reliable and efficient vehicle in going to and from work.

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  awesome - 2005 Ford Freestar
  By vicki - April 12 - 7:49 pm

  This vehicle is a 2 year lease and I got it before a huge snow storm. The vehicle just cruised through the snow with little swerving and sliding. The only complaint I have is the aerodynamics if you roll down the back window without the front being down your head will pound really bad otherwise it is good in all conditions and great for carrying things I sell at flea markets and there is plenty of room. Would recommmend for reliability.

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  Purple Lemon - 1995 Ford Contour
  By m. Junghans - April 12 - 7:31 pm

  Transmission went sour in 67,000 miles and had to be replaced. Fuel injection system had to be rebuilt at 68,000. Water pump went bad at 69,000. Transmission is designed so that a repair is not possible. Once you have internal problems the only fix it to replace the transmission (average estimate to replace was $3K). Water pump was designed with rubber blades on the shaft which wore down to nothing (average estimate to replace was $500). Fuel injection system design is complicated, thus expensive to repair. All in all this car lives up to FORDs intiials (Fix Or Repair Daily).

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  Freestar - 2005 Ford Freestar
  By Trish - April 12 - 5:12 pm

  I love our Freestar. It has all the options, and is fun and completely practical for our family of seven! I would recommend this minivan to anyone looking for a safe, reliable, family friendly minivan.

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  Best of class - 2005 Ford Expedition
  By cmbruce - April 12 - 4:30 pm

  We had owned a 2000 Expedition and really liked the size of the truck. It had a few drawbacks third seat, and ride comfort. Having three children we needed the room. The new Expedition is an excellent choice Ford improved the ride comfort of the truck. The air conditioned seats are a must have and the folding rear seat makes the vehicle much more user frendly.

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  My First Car - 1992 Ford Tempo
  By tempotimtim - April 12 - 4:18 pm

  I am writing this review because I feel that people put Tempo/Topazs down too much. A Ford Tempo was my dream car and I finally got it. It is a 92 Tempo GL, with the Vulcan 6, 5 speed, sunroof, spoiler, power mirrors/lumbar, A/C, cupholder, 14" 7 spoke factory rims. Ive had no problems with the car since I purchased it in Oct. 2004, when I got my license. Ive only had to replace the rear springs, patch 2 holes in the floor, and replace the front tires. This car hasnt left me stranded yet. It is exceptionally good on gas for a V6, and has enough pep to it. I would recommend a Tempo/Topaz for a first car, very cheap for parts and reliable.

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  Ford Ranger XLT 4WD 2 DR. LB w/4.0 V6 - 1992 Ford Ranger
  By Kenny Barker - April 12 - 9:01 am

  I kove this truck.Great gas mileage and the engine has a lot of zip.Very fun to drive.

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  Mysticobra Convertible is IT! - 2004 Ford Mustang
  By Mysticobra - April 12 - 1:30 am

  I sold my 2001 Mustang GT convertible and took the big step up the "Fun & Excitement" food chain. The 2004 Ford Mustang SVT Cobra convertible with the Mystichrome package is an amazing automobile! The 390 bhp engine begs you to bang through the six-speed tranny while the IRS hugs the road. Turn the traction control OFF and feel the entire impact of this high powered yet well mannered monster. While the interiors fit and finish need some work, the stares and pointing toward you and the vehicle makes a grown man giggle with glee. Even while parked the color changing paint and seat leather gather looks, gawks, pointing and staring. This IS the best of Ford SVT to date.

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  Love my Escape - 2002 Ford Escape
  By Katlvrkas - April 11 - 3:31 pm

  I bought my Escape brand new and love it! I have had 2 recalls, but they were fixed with no problem. The only other problem Ive had is that the power windows squeal in cold weather. Dealer has always lubed and once had to replace. Overall, Ive been extremely satisfied with the Escape.

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  Pretty good little SUV! - 2001 Ford Escape
  By craiginCT - April 11 - 1:44 pm

  VERY GLAD I got extended warranty: hydraulic clutch master cylinder went at 42,000 miles, tranny/shift cable got sloppy and replaced at 48,000, EGR valve at 50,000. BUT, those are the ONLY problems Ive had on this little gem! Gas mileage: best = 29mpg on last long highway trip averaging 65mph worst = 18mpg in 4WD in messy snow storm with the defroster blasting. Im 61", 190lbs. Drivers seat and legroom very good for most trips. STILL very impressed with handling! 50k miles and never needed alignment. Could be a tad quieter on road, but cant complain given its overall utility. Good range on gears, though I keep wanting 6th gear the 2.0L could have handled it on the highway and given even better gas mileage.