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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  Ford - 2003 Ford F-150
  By 1230 - May 12 - 2:00 am

  I never could get more than 16 m.p.g. in the city and 20 in the stix

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  1st time Crown Vic Owner - 2003 Ford Crown Victoria
  By CJC03LXSPORT - May 12 - 2:00 am

  This car replaces an 11 yr old, 1992 Saturn SL2. It is intended to be another long term car (10yrs min). Very good highway ride with crisp handling, and surprisingly nimble around town too, thanks to the new rack and pinion steering and suspension improvements. Low rumble from exhaust during warmup indicates need for slightly more underbody sound deadening. Exceptional room in the front for tall drivers, but rear seat leg room could be better. Controls are well laid out and visibility is very good. Leather seats dont provide enough grip during hard cornering, but are reasonably comfortable on 4 hour trips.

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  My Blue Pony - 2002 Ford Mustang
  By Jenstang - May 12 - 2:00 am

  I am 23 and within reason, this is definitely my DREAM car!! I love the fact that I see all kinds of different people driving around in a Mustang-- frat boys, hot college chicks, moms, dads, even the occasional "Senior." This car is fun, fast and definitely an attention getter. I considered the GT, but decided the V6 was plenty of power and was told by a few other people that the little extra power you get is not worth the BIG insurance increase and frequent stops at the gas station. If you like to live life with the top down, this car will make you happy every day.

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  2k2 Ford Mustang 3.8v6 - 2002 Ford Mustang
  By Justin G - May 12 - 2:00 am

  All in all, Ford has put out a decent enough commuter vehicle and/or fun- car. As an owner of the 2k2 Mustang, I can say that its stock performance alone leaves you a bit wanting... you LOOK fast, but youre comparatively slow. However, very little money needs to be put in to make this a sleek and stylish vehicle for your everyday use (Namely, window tinting). And for those of you who plan to put some money into your stang, the modification possibilities are incredibly vast... so you can truly make your stang personalized.

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  Never repeat buy this car - 2001 Ford Explorer
  By bethj - May 12 - 2:00 am

  I had a 1995 ford explorer xlt, never had a problem. I have had this explorer for 1 year and have had nothing but trouble. Bought it with 27000 miles on it and had it at the dealer 6 times before the warranty ran out. On one visit had the idle sensor replaced and we just had to replace it again, at our expense. VERY DISAPPOINTED IN FORD!!!!!

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  great SUV - 1999 Ford Explorer
  By nno - May 12 - 2:00 am

  Bought new, now has 92,000 miles, almost no problems with vehicle. Most reliable vehicle I have ever owned. Used to tow a camper since purchased.

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  Sort of Happy - 2003 Ford Expedition
  By Sort Of Happy - May 11 - 2:00 am

  Love my expedition.Very disappointed in the road and wind noise for a $45K vehicle! My dealership took care of the black brake dust problem and replaced with new brakes-Ford has admitted problem, but left it up to consumer to pay for the new brakes. At 7,000 miles started having a vibration in steering wheel, got worse and now at 17,000 miles tires are cupped out! Trying to get something done about that! Tires have been rotated every 5,000 miles. I really do love everything about my expedition but these few problems. Im sure that my tire issue will be resolved too...I have an awesome dealership!

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  By Far The Best - 1994 Ford Mustang
  By gtgirl - May 11 - 2:00 am

  I have had my Mustang for 9 years now and have 144,000 miles on it. This has been the best car I have had by far, great gas mileage (22MPG) great handling and just an all around great car. I have changed the oil every 2500 miles and had to do just maintenance work and that is it. She is still going stong and I plan on passing it to my daughter when I get my new 2005 Mustang in March of 2005.

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  1995 Mustang - 1995 Ford Mustang
  By butchF - May 11 - 2:00 am

  Highway Miles between Douglasville Georgia, to Athens Georgia, to Birmingham, Alabama where I have now moved. I travel alot so the car stays parked in a Valet Parking, Covered Lot at the Atlanta Airport. This car will run with the Big dogs, last of the big engines. It will top out about 150 mph. Because of modifications, Struts, 18 " tires, high speed brakes, and 3000 mile service its entire life, the Mustang is in excelent shape. Looks new.

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  Pretty fair truck - 1999 Ford F-150
  By JasonCOP - May 11 - 2:00 am

  I love the looks I get in this truck. I only wish the performance was as awesome. Its not bad, but not as good as I thought it would be knowing Fords record for performance.