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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  Faith in Ford Again! Great Car!! - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By Bob Baker - February 20 - 9:26 pm

  I purchased my Fusion this past summer. It was an off lease vehicle with about 34000 miles. Since it was a used vehicle, I purchased the extended warranty. This is the 6th Ford that I have purchased. My previous Fords were purchased brand new. I had a real bad experience with my Ford Windstar Van and that particular Ford Dealer. I decided never to buy a Ford ever again. I put my faith in Toyota and bought 2 of them since the Windstar. Toyota makes a great car, but I truly believe the quality of my Fusion is equal - if not better than my Toyota. I like this Fusion so much, that I will definitely pass it down to my son when I purchase a new Fusion Hybrid someday. Faith in Ford Again!!

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  Ford f150 Lariat 2010 - 2010 Ford F-150
  By Mike - February 20 - 1:43 pm

  First, I have got to say that I am impressed with the fuel economy. I drive a mixture of highway and city and get an average per tank of 17.9 mpg. Second, I am very impressed with the spacious interior and inside comfort. Finally, when I load the truck up it handles and drives as smooth as if there is nothing in it. Love this truck!

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  Love It - 2009 Ford F-150
  By Justin K. - February 18 - 10:19 pm

  This truck is impressive in every way. I got a great deal on a left over 2009 reg. cab 4x4 with the 3v 4.6 and 6- speed auto. It is smooth and responsive, fun to drive, and great looking. I have not even broken it in yet and am averaging 18.5 mpg (all in the cold Wisconsin winter). The inside is quiet and the exhaust has a nice powerful tone to it. I love how tall the truck stands (just as big as the competitions HD versions) and the new gas cap delete feature is really nice. Overall the truck is smart and a pleasure to drive.

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  Best Taurus ever - 2010 Ford Taurus
  By Tom F - February 18 - 4:02 pm

  This is my third Taurus, my first non wagon. The other two were very good in all respects but this one is the best! The style,interior, quality and available features are great. It rides well with little road noise so you have to watch your speed. I have received many compliments on this car.The trunk is huge without dropping the seatbacks.

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  If you could only own one truck - 1997 Ford F-350
  By Mainer - February 18 - 7:06 am

  I bought this new in 97, still own it and probably will never have to buy another truck. I know that I rated the fuel mileage high - but what do you expect from that engine, nothing but torque and power. Has performed great from the deserts to the colorado mountains and the Maine winters!

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  Love it! - 2004 Ford Escape
  By macmish - February 16 - 10:51 pm

  I purchased my Escape new in November of 2004. I love the looks - Exterior color is red with tan leather interior. Hot! The performance has been great. I have never had any trouble with it. I recently purchased a 16 tow behind trailer. The Escape tows it like a dream.

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  great ! - 2009 Ford Escape
  By patti - February 15 - 1:32 pm

  I love my ford escape. I upgraded it by adding a billet grill and chrome door handles. People remark on it all the time. I absolutely love the sync and ambient lighting. I would recommend to anyone looking for a smaller suv. Love it, love it !

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  Focus Fun - 2010 Ford Focus
  By Skip - February 14 - 8:14 pm

  I purchased my focus ses 3 months ago replacing my 2001 focus. What a difference ford has made over the years. Rides well and has many good perks like heated seats, well used in PA. Handing is quite a bit better than I expected. gas mileage averages at 33 mpgs. That is driving up and down hills. Awesome ride!

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  Great Truck - 1994 Ford Explorer
  By Josh - February 14 - 11:28 am

  I bought this truck with around 230,000 miles on it wondering what i was getting myself into. This truck is great. Great in the snow, always starts, great sound system, lots of cargo room, feels like Im sitting on a lazy boy driving around, it is so smooth. The car has also aged gracefully. I had to make a few minor repairs but that is to expected with such an old vehicle. The gas milage is not great but you cant control gas prices. I love the truck overall and it is still going strong after 300,000. Im going to hold on to this truck as long as I can. The front seats have so much room so much better than riding in a 2010 sardin can.

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  Good, economical car - 2003 Ford Focus
  By Dan - February 14 - 9:48 am

  I love this car. I had a 2002 Focus and gave it to my daughter. It has over 105000 miles and hasnt needed anything. Mine has 72000 miles and hasnt needed anything other than tires.