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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  1998 Ford Expedition Eddie Bauer 4WD - 1998 Ford Expedition
  By R - December 29 - 5:25 pm

  We purchased the vehicle new in April 1998. We now have roughly 108,000 miles on the vehicle and it drives the same as the day we bought it. The vehicle has required minimal maintenance, and is probably the finest and most reliable vehicle I have ever owned. I have rarely put on more than 60,000 miles on a vehicle, but anticipate driving this vehicle to at least 175,000 or 200,000 miles. It is tight and looks great! Although the original MSRP was roughly $43,000 and the mileage is not so good, this vehicle has lasted so long, and at such minimal expense that it will be the most economical vehicle I have ever owned.A great truck!

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  GOT A LEMON! - 2003 Ford Expedition
  By Mike - December 29 - 1:53 pm

  Vehicle was in the shop for 42 days the first 18 months. Ford is buying back the vehicle and refunding ALL my money (thank god). Problems: Rear differentials (3), side mirrors, side vent windows, drivers seat, front differential, brakes. RESALE IS HORRIBLE!!! BEWARE!

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  FORD (Frequent Overhaul Repair Damage) - 1996 Ford Windstar
  By Getting _Me_A_Honda - December 29 - 8:18 am

  Bought new - continuing trips to the dealership for repair from the first 100 miles (now have 70K miles) while under warranty and the problems described by other posts just escalated after warranty expired. Total cost of repairs to date: $5,000.00. NO MORE. Buying a Honda CR-V this week. Most unfriendly mechanics, but with a product this bad one should expect nothing but bad.

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  Performance with Style - 2004 Ford Thunderbird
  By Joe Cool - December 29 - 2:23 am

  I have driven the Lexus SC430 and the Ford Thunderbird I have purchased has surpassed it in both ride and performance. I shopped around and drove many convertibles but once I got into the Thunderbird it was easy to determine which vehicle I would be buying. Since I have purchased it I have been more pleased in all aspects that you would consider. It is one vehicle that once I brought it home, I havent been sorry for spending a little more than planned with what I have received.

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  Performance with Style - 2004 Ford Thunderbird
  By Joe Cool - December 29 - 2:23 am

  I have driven the Lexus SC430 and the Ford Thunderbird I have purchased has surpassed it in both ride and performance. I shopped around and drove many convertibles but once I got into the Thunderbird it was easy to determine which vehicle I would be buying. Since I have purchased it I have been more pleased in all aspects that you would consider. It is one vehicle that once I brought it home, I havent been sorry for spending a little more than planned with what I have received.

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  2003 Taurus SES Sedan - 2003 Ford Taurus
  By mwp201 - December 29 - 12:45 am

  I own a 2003 Taurus SES sedan. It is a great car..for two reasons..roomy and the price. I also LOVE the power for a 200 hp engine. I recommend this car for people who are on a budget and want the power.

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  02 F150 Lariat FX4 - 2002 Ford F-150
  By lgwilson - December 28 - 11:53 pm

  I love the truck. It is almost three years old now and Ive had zero problems with it so far. I love the 5.4 V8, but wish it got a little better fuel economy, especially on the highway. The interior is roomy, but doesnt grab you when you look at it. The truck rides well around town, yet still is very competent off road as well. This truck is a perfect example of why Ford has had the best selling trucks since the 70s.

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  The Poor Mans Sports Car - 1997 Ford Probe
  By Kerroj - December 28 - 6:01 pm

  Ive always loved sporty-looking cars but felt I could never afford one. I needed a car, so I decided to get a sporty one for the first time in my life. I researched a lot of used vehicles on-line and did a lot of comparison shopping. The car I REALLY wanted was a late-model Mitsubushi 3000GT, but it was too pricey overall compared to a Ford Probe. I settled with a 1997 (the last year they were made) black Probe that I found on a dealers on-line site. This was in November 2000. This car had only 24K on the odometer. I got it for their internet price (the price was listed at about $2K higher at the dealership!). I was truly amazed when I first test-drove this car, its fast for a 4-cyl auto!

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  Oily Problem - 2004 Ford Mustang
  By Bruce S - December 28 - 1:42 pm

  Frustrated owner of a new 2004 with only 1400 miles. The first 300 the car started leaking oil. They supposely fixed this then went on a road trip around 350 miles oil leaked again. Found out that there are 181 cars out there that have this problem. Ford will not take back the car which I want them to do. Dealer is ok, but certain higher ups were rude to me...WATCH OUT....

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  reliable - 1991 Ford Explorer
  By martino - December 28 - 12:07 pm

  I bought it new in 1991. After some warranty problems with wiring and dead batteries no major problems. I now have 199,000 miles and still take it on long trips. Interior is falling apart. Thinking about retiring it and mounting a snowplow.