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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  A great car for the price - 1996 Ford Taurus
  By Robert Stewart - May 7 - 2:00 am

  425,000 kms on this car. overhauled tranny at 250,000. OEM tires gave 150,000 km and still had tread.3L Vulcan never been opened. change the oil every month.replaced two wheel bearings, speed shift sensor, lower tie rod, 2 ball joints. Replaced column control arm. replacement except tranny due to wear and tear not defective manuf. replace tranny oil every 50,000km,flush rad once a year.OEM General tires only way to go. 110,000to 125,000kms on each set. All lights and bulbs in car are original. with proper care the Taurus is a terrific performer. Gets 30mpg consistently. Exhaustis orig and passed emissions test as if new.

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  not bad - 2004 Ford Taurus
  By aguilar - May 6 - 2:00 am

  not a bad car, very nice ride

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  Poor Gas Mileage - 1993 Ford F-250
  By rayvjr43 - May 6 - 2:00 am

  Its a very nice truck. Its dependable, plenty of power, looks nice in and out. Mine has a 460 cubic inch engine, I am only getting 6 miles per gallon, I would Like to know if anyone knows what mpg this truck , with a 460 ci engine, and 4 speed auto trans got when new? Very happy with the truck other than gas mileage.

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  USED TRUCK - 1994 Ford F-150
  By JACK S - May 6 - 2:00 am

  GREAT LOOING VEHICLE, ABOVE AVERAGE WORK TRUCK, GOOD LOAD CARRING VEHICLE. GAS MILEAGE IS DECENT BELOW 75MPH

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  A fun car with reliability - 1997 Ford Escort
  By BTA - May 6 - 2:00 am

  Our second car. Fuel efficient and low cost to maintain. Our first Ford and a pleasant surprise. Dont put many miles on it. Reminds me of our dog always starts up immediately and is ready to go when we are. Used much to drive and leave at airport, and we know that it will start in all weather to get us home.

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  No Regrets! I LOVE IT! - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By Happy Mommy - May 6 - 1:10 am

  After lots of researching, test driving, and comparison shopping, Ford beat out the Toyota Camry (didnt care for interior), Honda Accord (high price)and Chevy Malibu (bulky). The new Fusion design caught my eye and I was so surprised it was a Ford! Safety ratings are fabulous! The seats are so comfortable, and I love the interior. The dash lighting is updated and even the "chimes" are enjoyable. SYNC is GREAT! It really drives so smooth and turns easy The V-6 is powerful, no hesitation at all. HUGE trunk space, and that was important downsizing from an Expedition. Just because I am a mom, doesnt mean I dont want to look sporty. I am excited to drive it, and have no regrets!

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  Worth the Wait - 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By Chadlad - May 5 - 10:36 am

  We ordered our Fusion Hybrid on March 2, to take advantage of the maximum tax credit given on the car. We were trading in a Towncar, so wanted a version that had the creature comforts we were used to with heated leather and sunroof,etc. The car arrived on in late April and has so far been trouble free except for the fact that one of our cellphones wont link up with the Sync System.

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  Hope you have $$ - 1993 Ford Probe
  By lynne2 - May 5 - 2:00 am

  For being 11 years old, the body has stayed in great shape. However, I have replaced just about everything on this car and half of it twice over within 122,00 miles. The engine is aluminum block engine which overheats easily and is extremly expensive to replace. This car has cost me a fortune. But has never left me stranded!

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  Great Truck - 2003 Ford F-150
  By humps - May 5 - 2:00 am

  Great truck to drive, plenty of room for a family. Very short bed but the interior makes up for that.

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  Go For It!! - 2002 Ford Escape
  By JohnnyWalker - May 5 - 2:00 am

  Great car! Handles very well..responsive...great looking