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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  Fusio 1 - 2016 Ford Fusion
  By Roger Spiehs - May 29 - 5:09 pm

  Great car

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  1998 Taurus Wagon - 2004 Ford Taurus
  By Moffitt - May 29 - 2:00 am

  This is the third Taurus Wagon I bought new. They have all been excellant vehicles and I fully expect my next purchase will be the same.

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  a ranger is a girls best friend - 1999 Ford Ranger
  By cjharris - May 29 - 2:00 am

  I love my Ranger!I travel the country and a dependable vehicle is what is delivered in this little truck.I make sure the oil is changed regular and the amount of driving i do, that could be once a month.Im at 159,000 and the only problem is a squealing noise that only occurs once in a while.The engine is accessible making maintanence a do- it-selfers dream.spark plugs,fluid changes

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  Two 500 Family - 2006 Ford Five Hundred
  By Eric - May 29 - 12:30 am

  My wife and I traded our both old cars at the same time and bought 2 500s. Mine is the SEL. I Have been a sedan man all my life until I bought an SUV four years ago. Im very happy to be back in this sedan. It reminds me of the Grand Marquis I use to drive. Comfortable, handles well, minimal road noise. The CVT in my wifes Limited has better pickup, and the Limited has a few more features, but the SEL is good for me. While I might buy a Limited next time, it really isnt that much different.

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  500 is a lot of car for the money - 2005 Ford Five Hundred
  By Jim - May 28 - 6:40 pm

  I just got my 500 and with all rebates it is a lot of car for the money. The size and ride are great and the fuel cost is the best for a large car. So far my 500 has had no problems.

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  Just keeps getting better - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By B2 - May 28 - 10:36 am

  I have had three Explorers and each one is better than the last. I can always depend on my SUV to get me where I need to go. I put 275,000 miles on my first one and 192,000 on the second one and I have 72,000 on this one and it still has its original tires! I recommend it to anyone who needs a reliable safe SUV.

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  A Lot Better Than My 2000 Ford Explorer - 2000 Ford Explorer
  By wjddec10 - May 28 - 2:00 am

  When I got my 2002 explorer, i loved it a lot better than my 200 Explorer. I love the 3rd row seat, and believe it or not at 61", I can fit confortablly in the back for a good distance. The eager 239HP V8 is WONDERFUL and is a bit upgrade from the 215HP V8 from 2000, but it could use a little more power, about 20-30 more horses. It has great breaks and accelleration is top notch. The standard AM/FM/Cassette/CD sterio is pretty good for a standard sterio. Rear visibility is good and the large windows make it a good view all around. THANK GOD FORD PUT IN A INDEPENDENT SUSPENSION IN BACK!!! Hint hint GM and Chrysler!

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  Ok Truck - 1993 Ford F-250
  By reallyachevyguy - May 28 - 2:00 am

  I bought it used with 58k mi on it.Its been a pretty good on so far.But it does get LOUSY gas mileage. Between 7-10mpg empty. And the power I expected from the 460 wasnt quite there. But it does ok..think an aftermarket ignition is a must soon to help it out. Put a K&N filter and 3" single flowmaster on it and got some improvement. Definately get the front add-a-leaf...will save tires and improve the handling.

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  Ford Taurus - 2005 Ford Taurus
  By cobra venom - May 28 - 2:00 am

  cleanstyle, easy reach instruments, great visiability, nice comfortable seating, great cargo space,good stero

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  Ford Mustang GT - great vehicle! - 1998 Ford Mustang
  By ABED - May 28 - 2:00 am

  I bought this 98 GT used with 10k miles, and it has been a wonderful experience to own it. I originally had purchased the V6 but traded up to the V8 for the power. If youre going own a Mustang, you gotta go for the GT. Aside from all the stereotypical BS that some close-minded people say about Fords, I gotta say that this car has been ultra-reliable (knock on wood) and an awesome ride. I definitely recommend it to anyone who wants a fun, reliable, powerful vehicle that gives you freedom, independence, and joy.