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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  LUV my Ford But!!! - 1999 Ford F-150
  By CJ Ford - May 11 - 2:00 am

  This is my favorite ford of the 5 I have owned, all 150 and 250 4x4s. However this is the most expensive truck I have owned. I have replaced the auto tranny, head gaskets, instrument cluster, both power door lock units and after several attemps to correct the left rear wheel locking up when applying a cold brake, i just gave up. It will turn heads and is a pleasure to drive when not driving the the local dealer service department! Oh, the top of the engine makes too much noise on a cold start.

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  awesome car - 2004 Ford Taurus
  By glen1 - May 11 - 2:00 am

  the overall value make this an outstanding purchase!the ride is excellent,gas milage is very good also.purchase price made this an outstanding buy.

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  Ok vehicle but a new problem every month - 2000 Ford Taurus
  By SHELL - May 11 - 2:00 am

  I purchased this vehicle with 13k miles. It was a good purchase price possibly too good to be true. I have had problems with engine knocking since it was under warranty. The service manager said - we cant find anything it must just be bad fuel. To this day (80K miles later) it still knocks. The brakes squeal no matter what you do to them. Now the air conditioner has decided to work when it wants - I live in the south so this car will be traded in very soon. I really wanted this car but it is always something. It may be minor or major but it will keep you busy driving to a mechanic!

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  OK Ride - Dependable and Easy to Drive - 2001 Ford Taurus
  By Robert in Texas - May 11 - 2:00 am

  My 2001 SES DOHC was a rental bought at a dealer in 2002 with 23K. Had initial problems with brakes. Had rotors turned, then had them turned again about 20K later. Had fuel sensor replaced under warranty, idler pulley failed around 40K. Has been trouble free otherwise. Not exciting to drive, but is easy. Good smooth power from the 200hp DOHC engine. Transmission is a little clunky going from 3-4. Have 62K now and all is well. Will be a good car for my teenage daughter.

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  Ford Tough - 1997 Ford Expedition
  By GO PACK! - May 11 - 2:00 am

  I am approaching 200,000 miles... as the saying goes, "takes a licking, keeps on ticking"... thats my Ford. Tough truck. Ive put a few bucks into replacing parts here and there, but its expected at 200K miles! I highly recommend this tank.

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  Very Disapointed - 2000 Ford Windstar
  By Cosgrove - May 11 - 2:00 am

  Purchased the car because we liked the styling, safety and size. Went for a loaded SEL because we planned to pay it off and keep it for 8-10 years. Suddenly, with 55k miles, the car just stops. It will only go into reverse. We have it towed to the shop and find out we need a new transmission for $2500! Looking through the internet I find dozens of people that have had the exact same problem. How Ford can state or even imply that they build quality vehicles is beyond me, this will be the very last Ford product I ever purchase. I want my money back!

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  2005 Pony - 2005 Ford Mustang
  By Katie - May 10 - 11:56 am

  Always been an older Mustang fan, and when I saw the redesigned Mustang I fell in love all over again. Handles better than anything Ive driven and definitely a head-turner.

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  police interceptor crown victoria - 2000 Ford Crown Victoria
  By policeintercep - May 10 - 7:11 am

  I would say the interceptor crown victoria is the best vehicle I have ever purchased. Very reliable and fun to drive. The crown victoria is the perfect "get out of town car". Long distance driving is very comfortable in the crown victoria. Lots of power and easy to pass those slow sunday drivers in front of you. I would recommend the crown victoria to a friend or family member.

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  American Muscle - 2005 Ford Mustang
  By Ammitt - May 10 - 4:40 am

  This car has consistently ruled for 40 years and it will continue to rule in my opinion. My dream is one day to own the original Bullitt mustang. I think I know the car well as in my lifetime I have owned 13 different Mustang models, from the tiny Mustang 2, all the way to a 93 Cobra. This car has never ever failed me, and as long as I live there will be a Mustang parked in my garage ready to run.

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  Great truck!!! - 2000 Ford F-150
  By Wigginscpa - May 10 - 2:00 am

  Best truck I have ever owned. Truck has V-6, which is very strong for a V- 6 not great on gas, but fun to drive. My daughter (4 years old)prefers riding in "her" truck rather than mommys van. Will probably trade soon, to get a crew cab (most likely F-150).