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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  Great Truck - 2006 Ford F-150
  By CDTSHERWOOD - October 4 - 4:16 am

  No problems so far. Great looks and nice quiet ride. Getting good mileage 15.5 in town 18.0 highway.

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  Good car - 1993 Ford Tempo
  By Serega - October 4 - 2:00 am

  I got this car a year ago, and so far heres what I think: It may not have an outstanding exterior/interior, the ride and handling is average, and the limit of 80 mph is definitely not too much. However, I didnt have any major problems with it, only usual maintenance. I particularly like 126ft*lb at only 2000-3000Rpm (4cyl) - you can outrun most of the cars if you wish when you start at traffic light. So my impression is: Ford Tempo is a good car to for beginners. Reliability strongly depends on the way the car was maintained.

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  Dont buy Windstars - 1999 Ford Windstar
  By Run away - October 4 - 2:00 am

  We bought this car new in 1999, and thats where the trouble started. It didnt have all of the options we were led to believe (rear audio plate was on the car but there was no rear audio). Electrical glitches very early on. As soon as the warranty ran out, the steering rack needed replaced, radio which was never that good broke, and numerous electrical glitches. Air bag light spent more time on than off after fixing twice, just gave up. Torque converter went at 85000 miles and fixed. Transmission finally went at 95000 miles and the brake light started coming on and I am calling it quits. These are just the major problems. I am now donating this car to charity and I feel guilty.

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  Big Red Ford - 2003 Ford Expedition
  By Quicksilver101 - October 4 - 2:00 am

  This 2-wd SUV has done just what we bought it for: Haul kids, dogs, luggage and groceries long distances in safety and comfort. It has been without fault mechanically. The 4.6 liter V-8 has provided adequate power and reasonable mileage (close to 20 mpg on long trips -- 15 around town). We like the way the truck looks, and its interior design has proved to be very functional and flexible, made of materials that are wearing well. Finally, it has great brakes, super visibility, and the IRS make this large machine both comfortable and secure on the road. Would we buy another? Yes.

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  More time in shop than on road - 2001 Ford F-150
  By Ruthy - October 4 - 2:00 am

  We have owned this vehicle for 3 months now and have had to take it in for repair six times. Seems like it has been in the shop more than we have driven it. I dont feel it is reliable at all! Hope to get it off our hands ASAP!

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  Dream - 2004 Ford Focus
  By soulpatch - October 4 - 2:00 am

  This car is truely awesome. I am an aggressive driver and it seems to know where I want to go before I do. Great pickup and awesome handling. Styling is eye catching and I get a lot of nods on the road. My SVT is fully loaded and the sound system is probably my favorite feature. The auto volumn control is top notch as well. Great car for the price and I would recommend this to anyone.

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  "Escaped" in my SUV - 2004 Ford Escape
  By teri - October 4 - 2:00 am

  I love this suv, it handles well, and I will buy another when this one goes. Thank you Ford.

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  Nice New Vehicle - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By Donnie - October 3 - 11:56 am

  We purchased this vehicle as a Demo from dealership, so it was a very nice price to begin with. I was a little uneasy about the possible gas mileage, and the unknown CVT transmission, but I have been really surprised by how well I like this vehicle. First tank of gas got us 26 miles to the gallon in very hilly country driving, which is as good as my car. Very comfortable to drive. We haul a lot of material in the back, and the CVT transmission works fine, and holds the cruse control just perfect. I have really not found anything to fault with this wagon.

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  LOVE MY PONY - 1998 Ford Mustang
  By Diane and her stang - October 3 - 2:00 am

  this car is great. I love the design and for the $ its a good deal. To own a pony car is my dream and now I am looking for a 1968 to go with my 1998.

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  Bitten by the Snake - 2003 Ford Mustang
  By tallicadrone - October 3 - 2:00 am

  My 03 convertible has justified the term Fix Or Repair Daily. Without warning, the car will turn-off as I am driving. Mind you, its in gear at the time. Of course, the steering wheel locks and I loose power-assist braking. Lets just say "VERY SCARY". Its already had the alternator replaced at my local dealership and continues to do the same. They obviously dont know how to fix it, but its going back in tomorrow for the 3rd time. Linear acceleration is great, but dont even get me started on the tranny/clutch. My service advisors say that they are aware of the "chatter" that emanates from the tranny/clutch, but can only say its "supposed to do