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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  Is it a Ford? - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By Ariel Lopez - December 17 - 4:00 am

  Actually, so far I get everything from "is it a BMW, Saab, Volvo etc.", except Ford. All Ive had is great complements on my Fusion. It really feels like you are driving a European car. Great on gas Ive been getting around 28mpg, city and highway combined. Ive had no complaints so far. Love driving this car.

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  Diesel - 2003 Ford Excursion
  By bluewaterangler - December 17 - 2:00 am

  This SUV is awesome. With the 7.3 turbo diesel I am averaging 18 mpg in the city and 28 on the highway. The comfort level is tops.

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  1st 25K - 2008 Ford Taurus X
  By shelbysaab - December 17 - 12:16 am

  Overall we are VERY please with this Ford. We believe we got alot for our money. It drives as nice as many luxury cars and can haul more than most pick up trucks. Luv Mult-sync, works very well. Ford should promote this vehicle more!

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  Head Turner - 2010 Ford Shelby GT500
  By Mike Watson - December 16 - 9:00 pm

  This is my sons dream car, and I was very lucky in purchasing an example in the middle east where I reside. This is the first American muscle car I have owned and Im not disappointed. The car is "visceral" in every sense.Aggressive and bold styling, European quality leather interior and great handling make this vehicle a pleasure to own and a real head turner.I believe this model will be an appreciating modern classic. Mid life crisis,bring it on!

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  Third King Ranch - 2017 Ford F-150
  By Teacher - December 16 - 3:04 pm

  This truck is great, a lot more functionality than our previous ones. Only complaint is they longer offer the cowhide leather seats, which wore like iron.

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  Poor gas mileage - 2005 Ford Focus
  By triggerr - December 16 - 9:00 am

  Am getting 26 miles per gallon and dont think that is acceptable for such a small car. Have had it checked and am told it is in the acceptable range and there is nothing that can be done. Am very dissatisfied with the mileage. Would never buy another one for that reason.

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  Owned 3 months - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By George - December 16 - 2:23 am

  V-6, FWD. Drove to Durango, Co from Denver across the Rockies & averaged 30 mpg. Old car was 2004 Honda Accord EX, V6. Ford is quieter, has as much acceleration, a smoother ride, better gas mileage, and a bigger trunk. It basically cost the same as the Honda did 5 years ago. I got the Moon & Tune package and there is great sound from the speakers. Good traction in snow (I have snow tires on). I went to dealer and asked if he would meet edmunds price and he did--no haggling. I have about 2,800 miles on the car and so far I have no complaints. A very nice car for under $25,000.

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  What problems? Do preventative maint.!!! - 1997 Ford Windstar
  By ezrider - December 16 - 2:00 am

  If you take car of this vehicle, it will not give you many problems. Its true the front driver side door sensor was a little bit of a pain, an alternator went (its pushing 80K) but so what! It still has its original FoMoCo battery after almost 6 years of dependable service! This vehicle is as solid and reliable as any foreign car I have owned (about 10 Hondas)

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  What A Nightmare - 2000 Ford Windstar
  By PO,D IN CT - December 16 - 2:00 am

  This car was great until the dreaded 36000 mile warranty cut off. At about 38000 miles all heck broke loose. 1st it was the heater ($1300), next the air intake thing ??,($900) then the bearings ($1400). $3600 later we traded it in for a real car (Honda). Through all the problems neither Ford nor the dealership wanted to even know us. In 1 yr. of owning the Windstar it cost us $3600 in repairs and $8000 in depreciation . After owning 4 other previous Fords I will never buy a Ford again!!!

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  outstanding small truck - 2003 Ford Ranger
  By rogahunt - December 16 - 2:00 am

  I am very pleased with all aspects of this vehicle. Nice looking and strong. Gas mileage could be better.