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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  Good compact truck - 2004 Ford Ranger
  By shannon - January 31 - 10:00 am

  The truck handles great on corners, has lots of power, good gas milage compared to competing trucks. Interior is well built, dash board is very axcessabile. Fun to drive

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  Escaped! - 2003 Ford Escape
  By Petch - January 31 - 10:00 am

  The vehicle is great had a problme with the seat and dvd player. Dealer fixed promptly.

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  2000 Lx commute vehicle - 2000 Ford Crown Victoria
  By hank.pedersen - January 31 - 10:00 am

  This is a great car to commute to work in. Its reliable,very quiet and comfortable to ride in. The only problem is the city gas mileage. The hwy mileage is about 24mpg. Overall a great car.

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  LIMITED 2003 EXPLORER - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By sandercl - January 31 - 10:00 am

  I really enjoy my 2003 Limited Explorer. It rides smooth but the inside noise level could be diminished. The 6 CD changer is wonderful. It looks good from the outside and the inside is very plush, with the leather interior. Fuel economy is good depending on your rate of travel. I especially love the moon-roof. Also, it doesnt have a locking gas cap. This is very important to me. That needs to be a definite upgrade with future models. I have been very pleased with everything other than the inside noise level.

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  Explorer - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By buffalonius - January 31 - 10:00 am

  This is an excellent car to drive in snow, rain and on a sunny day. Commfortable interior with the 3rd seet surprice additin.

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  SVT COBRA - 2003 Ford Mustang
  By svtxchinoy - January 31 - 10:00 am

  Well, almost a year now since I had it. It hasnt done me wrong yet. Only a shock swap that had to be done cause of the quality NYC roads we have here (yea right) Besides that, cars doing great, especially after a K&N oil filter. The motorcraft was fine, but, I suggest avioding FRAM. Made it feel sugglish after only 1000 miles after I changed the oil. Can definately feel a difference when using the K&N one.

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  My 3rd GT love em but need to be... - 2003 Ford Mustang
  By fredstangs - January 31 - 10:00 am

  The mustangs need to be built more solid and stronger, and must have better traction when weather is out. But great car I love it, (needs more horsepower to keep steady and compete with the other muscle cars out there, like japanese and german power!)

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  tempo 92 - 1992 Ford Tempo
  By My tempo - January 31 - 2:00 am

  Decent car for the price. the V6 option is a must and truely brings the car to life. Power everything gives it the luxury. 177K miles and going

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  Fun, Fun, Fun - 2004 Ford Thunderbird
  By Steve LoGuercio - January 31 - 2:00 am

  Having owned several Thunderbirds previously,Ford really hit the mark this time. Besides being a fun car to drive, the styling is unique combining the old with the new.The ride is better than you would expect. With the hardtop in place the ride is better than average.The handling is excellent,considering this really is a relaxed cruiser. Its also comfortable and fairly quiet. As for the issue of not enough trunk space, you dont buy a car like this if you want a lot of trunk space. All in all this car is certainly a welcome change.This car is not exactly sluggish either. Its got plenty of pep.

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  FORD THUNDERBIRD IS AWESOME - 2004 Ford Thunderbird
  By NETTIE - January 31 - 2:00 am

  THIS NEW FORD THUNDERBIRD TURNS HEADS OF ALL AGES. WE LIVE IN NEW YORK & PUT THE CAR AWAY FOR 5 months that is the HARD part but it feels LIKE BRAND NEW EVERY SPRING! WOW WHAT A VEHICLE! TEST DRIVE ONE TODAY YOU WILL SEE! YOU WILL ALSO WANT 1 in your Driveway~!! A HAPPY NEW YORK DRIVER o)