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:

• 

  Disappointed... - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By aeodie - October 14 - 10:00 am

  I decided to buy the explorer instead of a grand cherokee or 4 runner because I liked the styling and it seemed to be the perfect size for my family...not too big, but bigger than most mid-sized suvs. I bought a new vehicle because we were about to have a new baby and I wanted something reliable...that has not been the case. I have had the rear- end replaced because it was making a loud noise. I have had the engine light come on due to a spark plug problem. Two tires were replaced due to "abnormal wear," and the interior has had some problems. I have been disappointed with this vehicle, even though the service from Ford has been good.

• 

  Just Lovin It ! - 1998 Ford Explorer
  By new suv guy - October 14 - 2:00 am

  I purchased this vehicle in June 2003 with 94000 miles and an extended warranty contract. I have put 9,000 miles on it since. Other than a rattly suspension (replaced shocks), it has been great.

• 

  My Review - 2000 Ford Explorer
  By Kj - October 14 - 2:00 am

  This is a great 4WD vehicle, but with poor gas milage.

• 

  92 Ford Ranger XLT - 1992 Ford Ranger
  By TedM - October 14 - 2:00 am

  Had 162K before manual trans failed due to rubber boot that slowly leaked trans oil. Must check your trans oil periodically. Otherwise, the 3L engine is powerful and very reliable. Only did regular maintenance on it. Only install OEM fuel pump and not aftermarket. Try to cut thru bed or take off bed to access pump.

• 

  ford zx2 - 1998 Ford Escort
  By Dashbrdluvr - October 14 - 2:00 am

  Ive had my car for a few months, and i really dont have anything bad to say about it. It has a lot more power than I thought it would have and its performance is exellent.

• 

  Great deal! - 2003 Ford Windstar
  By wagsk - October 14 - 2:00 am

  Great van for the money.Sticker was 30105.00 paid 22300.00 after 5500.00 in rebates and 2300.00 discount. You need to go to the Ford web site to find the extra 500.00 rebate.Plus mine came with a free VCR system.

• 

  Shelby GT 500 coupe white/blue stripes - 2007 Ford Shelby GT500
  By Craig - October 13 - 11:10 pm

  This is the car that only Ford and Carroll Shelby could build. It has the head turning good looks from the mid sixties Shelbys and the refinements of todays suspension and safety features all rolled into a package that is amazing!

• 

  BEST DEAL 4 THE$$$$ - 2003 Ford Ranger
  By peter 914-736-1300 - October 13 - 2:00 am

  A great basic truck with so much more. I needed a truck for light hauling, after looking at the compition it was a no brainer. The xlt ranger with 4 wheel abs (ebd), cd player, ac, center consol with 3 cupholders, mats, chrome wheels, and much much more, cost around 10900. The 5 speed is responsive and the 15 inch tires look great. If you need a truck see me at curry ford I buy and drive what I sell.

• 

  Plastic cracks!! - 1996 Ford Taurus
  By CarJunkie - October 13 - 2:00 am

  I live in North Dakota and ford put plastic radiators in this car, (when plastic freezes, it cracks if it gets too warm too fast). Also, the head and head gasket are a common complaint about this car when it comes to things going out. It is a beautiful car though, and when there isnt something that needs to be fixed it rides nice, and is top of my list for comfort!!

• 

  Nice road vehicle - 1998 Ford Windstar
  By wilstjb - October 13 - 2:00 am

  Roomy, comfy, powerful. Feels safe and was rated that way. I bought it new in 1998 and it still looks neat. Dual AC handles hot weather nicely, even with dark green paint. 23 MPG average which I consider good for what it is. Great for long trips. Poor transmission, replaced at 55K. Good thing I had the extended warranty. Rear window motors were both replaced. Local dealer very poor, had to take it to another town to have it serviced and repaired.