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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  King o the road / ranch - 2001 Ford F-150
  By lovevegas - November 12 - 2:00 am

  Love the truck. Rides like a car. Gret feel. Love taking it on road trips. Whole family travels in style. Best leather seats on the market.

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  the review - 2003 Ford F-150
  By kevin weld - November 12 - 2:00 am

  The f150 svt is a good design the 380 hp is good for fun but the fuel is not the bast but not to bad.

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  Great Car!!! - 2000 Ford Contour
  By karilyn1982 - November 12 - 2:00 am

  I recently bought a used 2000 Ford Contour SE Sport. V6 2.4 liter Duratec engine. Very nice ride so far...have had NO problems. Rides like a dream.

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  2002 ZX2 Manual Transmission - 2002 Ford Escort
  By Todd Skrypek - November 12 - 2:00 am

  It is a suprise to get decent power and good reliability for under $14,000. I had two transmissions put in within the first 20,000 miles but it was my fault the first time and the dealers fault the second time. My only complaint is it is rough shifting but it could be the result of the multiple transmissions.

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  Probe - 1993 Ford Probe
  By rcf - November 12 - 2:00 am

  Ive had this car for 11 years and put in 115500 miles on it and engine is still runs. Accellerates well and handling is above average. Im still getting 26MPG. Only major problem I had was the brake calipers which was replaced under warantee. Overall, Im satisfied with this car.

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  Really nice car for the money - 2005 Ford Focus
  By Mike - November 11 - 12:00 pm

  I was looking for a nice inexpensive car to replace my old 91 saab 900s. I wanted similar features that I had; heated seats, CD, heated mirrors, good mileage , and adequate power. This car delivers in all areas and more. The price was $14,700 after rebates. I got used to the car immediately, more comfortable, more power, better mileage and emissions , better handling, more room, more everything, than my old Saab. Very pleased with the car. Fun to drive! Best car for the money in my opinion. Considered Honda , Nissan, Toyota but none could match feature for price. Better warranty also with Ford.

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  I had no Idea - 2003 Ford Focus
  By NoForMe - November 11 - 10:00 am

  I bought the 2.3L Centennial. The leather is very nice (two-tone) The 5sp has excellent pick up and the safety features are awesome. Side airbags and dual front. I also have the moonroof Fog lights spoiler and the 6disc in dash. I have to agree the stereo sounds great. The ride is very smooth. Fuel is great if you live by the dummy shift light. With the Rebate its a great car to buy brand new. Just make sure to pay invoice and then get your rebate. The black centennial is beautiful I just want the Xenon lights

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  6 banger lover - 2003 Ford Mustang
  By Gail Dolan - November 11 - 10:00 am

  Excellent town car. Good looks.

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  Worst Car Experience Ever - 2000 Ford Focus
  By Unhappy Ford Driver - November 11 - 10:00 am

  When I buy a new car, I expect reliabilty and I havent had that in the 3 years I had it. Its spent a significant portion of its life in the shop for either Ford recalls or engine problems of its own. At 20K miles, a new transmission was needed. I contacted a lemon law attorney, but never had the time to pursue my case. I will never buy American again.

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  Taurus - 2001 Ford Taurus
  By Bmxerbrett - November 11 - 10:00 am

  With the 24 valve performance is still not a word used but the 200 hp will push you up to 60 in about 8 seconds. Not bad but not good. Cornering is ok in this car but does have a problem with body roll. Again this car was designed for the less wealthy older folks.