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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  Great Car - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By Chris - November 1 - 1:53 pm

  Bought this car in Atlantis Green which I highly recommend. This car turns heads. Quick and comfortable. With only 300 miles on it I am averaging 17 mpg but that number is going up. Handles very well but dont mistake it for a Corvette. SYNC will take some time to learn but gives you a wealth of features and information.

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  Great Bang for the Buck - 1992 Ford Mustang
  By jrs6557 - November 1 - 2:00 am

  An honest, fun, and dependable car. One watre pump in 94,000 miles and still running on the original clutch. The engine just goes and goes and goes and the manual transmission is rock solid. Everything works the way it should, but it is a convertible. There will be squeeks and wind noise, but nothing beats it with the top down and that low rumble coming from the 5.0 liter V8!

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  I had an accident now its toast - 1996 Ford Taurus
  By crazy1mike - November 1 - 2:00 am

  I loved my car and now it is gone this car is great for families who want a economical car thats dependable. This ford was built tough with a high saftey rateing thats what saved my life and my friends life as well. Needs a little stronger engine to climb hills and things but other wise great car.

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  Quality Car and Excellent Value! - 2003 Ford Taurus
  By tomny67 - November 1 - 2:00 am

  This is an easy car to drive. It has a good, solid feel on the road. I find the drivers seat very comfortable and the interior is extemely quiet. Since Ive only driven this car 2200 miles, its too early to rate in terms of reliability but Im impressed with its initial quality. The car was put together flawlessly in Atlanta. In my opinion, the Taurus is the most handsome- looking family vehicle on the market today.

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  Silver GT Coup - 2001 Ford Mustang
  By Tchefalo - November 1 - 2:00 am

  Ive had the Mustang for almost 3 years and I have enjoyed it. I have read reviews in consumer magazines that I think are too crtitcal. If you buy a Mustang that is what you are looking for, not a Toyota, BMW or Saab. I havent been disappointed with its performance. Unfortunately, like so many US manufactured vehicles, I have had mechanical problems in the first 3 years. The engine mounts were lose when I picked it up, the fuel pump died and the battery lost its charge. The problems were covered under the warranty including the tow to the dealership for repairs. It didnt turn out to be that big an problem for me because I have a truck too.

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  Hardly a problem - 1996 Ford Contour
  By Daveeeee - November 1 - 2:00 am

  This car gets about 25 or 26 mpg and has been very reliable.

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  FORDS BEST KEPT SECRET - 2003 Ford Excursion
  By Arthur Martin - November 1 - 2:00 am

  The Excursion is the best kept secret. the 6.0 Turbo Diesel gets excellent fuel mileage, I dont know where the critics get there 411 on fuel economy? I wouyld take an Excursion over a Suburban any day.

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  4x4 - 1996 Ford F-150
  By Eric Wynes - November 1 - 2:00 am

  Very strong running and well built truck. Great towing and hauling capacity.

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  NEW WHEELS - 2004 Ford F-150
  By Turbo Diesel - October 31 - 10:00 am

  THIS REALLY IS THE ONLY TRUCK THAT EARNED THE TITLE F-150, AND I HAVE PUT SOME EXRTA FEATURES THAT I WILL MENTION. BUT FIRST, THE TRUCK HAULS LIKE NO OTHER. CHEVY, DODGE, AND TOYOTA DONT MATCH THE TRITON V8 THIS PUPPY HAS. WHILE ITS NOT A F-150 LIGHTNING, IT ACCELERATES VERY WELL.

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  Excellent - 2004 Ford Expedition
  By JMH28 - October 31 - 10:00 am

  This is my second Expedition. I love everything about it.