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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  Enjoying the Mid-life Crisis - 2003 Ford Thunderbird
  By Stuski - October 13 - 2:00 am

  This car is a blast to drive in! We wish the weather would allow for more driving but it will help keep the car in great shape for years to come by storing it every winter. Love driving with the top up or down. No need for a back seat, keep the car design as is.

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  Excursion Rocks! - 2003 Ford Excursion
  By Lakerat - October 13 - 2:00 am

  I average 19 mpg on the highway, 16 stop & go, and can carry everybody and their stuff! This is a terrific vehicle, and the diesel is quieter than I expected.

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  Love it! - 1994 Ford Ranger
  By Ranger Lover - October 13 - 2:00 am

  I owned this truck for almost 5 years and was still driving it at 170K miles when it was totaled in an accident. I rolled this truck at 60mph and walked away with just one scratch. When they say built Ford tough, they mean it! I just bought a 2000 Ranger to replace this one.

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  Dependable Ford Explorer - 1996 Ford Explorer
  By jeradoh - October 13 - 2:00 am

  Well built, easy to maintain, safe vehicle.

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  so far so good - 2001 Ford Escape
  By pakamama - October 13 - 2:00 am

  zippiest car i have evr driven.. acceleration on the V6 is heavenly. spacious enough for a family of 4 plus a load.

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  Tough truck just keeps on goin - 1997 Ford F-150
  By Givingman - October 13 - 2:00 am

  As the first vehicle I have ever kept longer than the 4 year payment plan, this Ford is a winner by default. It tows, carrys, and rides all day in comfort. Still gets compliments on its looks and runs like new. Cruises at 85 on the highway as smoothly as my wifes Avalon (OK, a bit noisier) and can then tramp through the woods like a champ. I still smile everytime I see it in the parking lot waiting for me. And in rush hour traffic you can see over Explorers and other lesser beasts to anticipate problems and reduce claustraphobia. Winner all the way!

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  Second Guessing My Purchase - 2014 Ford Focus
  By Fran C. - October 12 - 10:46 am

  This is about the transmission shuddering issue. Otherwise beside the interior not having a lot of storage space I really love my car. I bought my car last May and have not even reached 10k. After a few months I noticed this noise the car was making. Clunking/Clicking when Driving/Acceleration. I brought it to the dealer I got it from and had to wait 3 days for them to test drive to verify my claims. It took a few days to fix and all seemed well until this morning when I thought I heard the noise start up again. Not bad but enough to make me worry. I am due for my 10k service so I will talk to them about it. I heard through websites and other sources these cars are noted for transmission issues. I will update this post if anything changes. If you are having the same problem do not wait, bring it in and have them fix it. Transmissions are $$$$$$$$ !!

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  small but mighty - 1993 Ford Escort
  By chsmn - October 12 - 2:00 am

  car came from michigan. on way back the car averaged approx. 35 mpg. since ive had it has been back and forth to west virginia. my wife drives it every day, to and from work and personal use. it is an absolute incredable car. overall a complete two thumbs up! i dont intend to get rid of it.

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  Great Truck - 1999 Ford Expedition
  By Bill.202020 - October 12 - 2:00 am

  Reliable no repairs needed in five years.

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  build to last - 1993 Ford Aerostar
  By yury - October 12 - 2:00 am

  This is a 2 in 1 car, its a very good car for people who need a vehecle for a large family, bacause its got 3 rows of seats, for 8 adults, and its also good for work, such as making deliveries, etc., since the sits easily come off, and becomes a full size van.