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:

• 

  close to perfect - 2000 Ford Mustang
  By Harry Watkins - November 25 - 2:00 am

  close to perfect, nice and powerful sports car.

• 

  Love it! - 2003 Ford Escape
  By Sandy Bartlett - November 25 - 2:00 am

  Have been researching this SUV for weeks, test drove many. The ride is very good, build seems excellent if a little spartan in the interior, but I like that and its what keeps the price down. Plus every one loves the way it looks, real head turner. Highly recommended.

• 

  I like it at 98k - 1998 Ford Explorer
  By DJ Soulseeka - November 25 - 2:00 am

  I have had this Sport for a few months. Its quiet powerful handles well regardless of what anyone else says. Ive been driving full blown Nascar racecars so I know handling. Corners well for a short wheel-based truck. No fluid leaks at all, mileage 22 mpg on the road, a/c and heat will run you out. The rear wiper is almost useless unless you bend it towards the glass to get more contact. Overall I know this a GREAT value. If you dont need the four door dont get it. You still get a lot of truck and cargo area, not to metion lighter, so better mileage and cost less. Most of all DONT get the 4.0 SOHC if at all possible.

• 

  Brakes continue to be an issue - 2010 Ford Transit Connect
  By deegers - November 25 - 1:03 am

  I just turned over 17,000 miles on my 2010 Transit. and, I just got my 4th front brake job. I am averaging between 4k--4.5k for each brake replacement. I cant believe that there are not there arent other reviews here bringing attention to this matter. I know several other Transit owners ( we are all dog walkers), all with the same exact problem. What gives? Its a great van otherwise, perfect for the job. I would love to continue with these vans, but it doesnt make sense.

• 

  Luxury Features without the Luxury Price Tag - 2015 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By ladylou - November 24 - 7:58 am

  I owned a 2011 Fusion Hybrid and when I got the new car itch, I decided to opt for a 2015 model. I have not been disappointed. Im averaging 45.8 mpg city and 43 highway in real-life driving situations, an improvement over the 2011 model year. Acceleration is quick when needed, and the car is quiet while in motion. The engine makes just enough noise to let you know when it switches over from electric to gas so you can tweak the gas pedal for better mileage. If you bend your left leg while driving (vs. keeping it straight), it can be difficult to find a comfortable position for your foot because of the way the floor is designed. A ridge on the floor makes it hard to situate your foot and leg.

• 

  Windstar a Bust - 2000 Ford Windstar
  By michaeljtee - November 24 - 2:00 am

  I purchased this vehicle to give family of five (3 children) more room and comfort when travelling. Safety was important to me and this has proved to be a safe sturdy vehicle. Ask the deer that ran in front of the van last week! Minimum damage to van. However, at 16,000 miles transmission had to be replaced. Received 24 month/24,000 on new transmission. Well, 30,000 miles later (46,000 total) tranny # 2 is leaking and slipping. 25K..Never again!

• 

  A Good First Car - 1993 Ford Thunderbird
  By Robyn_Marie - November 24 - 2:00 am

  I bought my T-Bird from a friend who really screwed me on this car. It needed new ball joints and control arms in the front end($700)Then the brakes totally went out, complete brake job ($500)needs an alternator and new tie rods another $4-500. This is a good car if you have the money to fix it when something goes wrong with no warning. It is also sporty and reliable. Fords are really an expensive car to own they have transmission problems as well as the starters. Mine has 127,000 miles but Ive had it less than 6 months and just look at everything thats been fixed already. Just be picky when buying a ford and youll be better off buying from a dealership.

• 

  GREAT FAMILY CAR - 1998 Ford Windstar
  By CARMOM - November 24 - 2:00 am

  Cant beat it for family city and vacation driving! No major Problems. A lot of minor irritants, like an engine light that has stayed on for 3 years after being fixed many times.Paint peeling on outside-car looks much older. Door squeaks that come and go. Overall-highly recommend.

• 

  My first truck! - 1999 Ford F-150
  By dseifried - November 24 - 2:00 am

  This is my first experience with a truck, as I have been shopping for several years. Have rented several brands, for short periods of time, mainly Rangers & S10s. I am really glad I went with the F150 (full size), as it is much better driving, than the smaller pick-ups. What a dream to drive, especially on the road. It is one, great truck!

• 

  Johns Lightning - 2002 Ford F-150
  By johnk - November 24 - 2:00 am

  I have owned this Lightning since I bought it in February, 2002. I drive it nearly every day, and there has not been one moment that I have regretted purchasing this truck. It has plenty of power, good looks, and comfort. I have had people of all ages tell me what a good looking vehicle it is. My wife and I love to go on trips in it, and it is very comfortable for both the pilot and passenger. I also haul home maintenance supplies in it. It is the most fun to drive, best looking, and practical vehicle I have ever owned (including 1958 Austin Healey 100-6, 1959 Chevrolet Impala, 1970 Olds Cutlass W- 31, 1976 Toyota Celica, 1984 Porsche 924. I love this truck!