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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  V-6 better deal - 2005 Ford Mustang
  By Lana Feulner - September 20 - 8:06 am

  Customer service is a 2. All this talk about the V8 being so great ... well I test drove it and thought it was too masculine and loud for a females taste! In addition, I requested to exchange a hood with no spoiler. I love the new design of the Ford Mustang with its smooth lines .... without the spoiler and the fog lights (gag - gag and gag.) This look is the "real" Mustang." Love the Windveil blue. Best idea is to purchase the car with cloth seats and then upgrade leather at dealers cost - only $1163.00

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  52,000 Miles - Great Car! - 1998 Ford Mustang
  By KDaly - September 20 - 2:00 am

  I bought my Mustang 5 years ago brand new. I have never regretted it. The car is fun to drive and completely reliable. I have kept it very well maintained and had the usual maintenance. The interior cloth seats are a great fabric that has a texture to it, making it difficult to see any wear or stains. The fuel efficiency is above average and being that it is a 5-speed I have plenty of get up and go. All instruments are easily found and self-explanatory. This is a great car! I have loved putting every mile on her!

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  My Bronco - 1994 Ford Bronco
  By mfsta4boss - September 20 - 2:00 am

  Excellent truck, many years of tough service, and it just keeps going.

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  Brand New Classic - 2003 Ford Thunderbird
  By UnionLaw - September 20 - 2:00 am

  The new Thunderbird is a cool retro design with all of the modern conveniences. Whether cruising with the top down or with the hardtop on, one cannot help but feel excited. It not only looks like a dream, it also handles like one. With its 280 hp engine, you never have to worry about the big rig bearing down on you as you get on the highway.

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  Mountain Shadow Gray - 2003 Ford Thunderbird
  By Stewart Mathews - September 20 - 2:00 am

  Almost bought a Jaguar - had my checkbook in hand. Ford dealer called, and I liked the price. Cant see how I would have had any more fun in the Jag, and I have the money for another T-bird.

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  97 expedition Great white. - 1997 Ford Expedition
  By Ikeman - September 20 - 2:00 am

  We traded my beautifull black z71 pickup in for this Great big white Ex. At first we didnt know if we did the right thing, but soon realized that we couldnt have made a better choice.(I am a die hard ford man now.) It pulls anything and every thing you need to pull with no effort down the road. Sure the gas mileage could be better, but you have got to sacrafice a little for the power. The four wheel drive has never failed me. and I have never had to do anything besides the regular schudled tune ups. (125000 miles)

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  Real Good Old Truck - 1994 Ford F-150
  By rpage - September 20 - 2:00 am

  I have 195000 miles on this truck.I have the oil changed at 3 to 5 thousand miles.I have owned this truck nearly 8 years.I drive it every day.It gets 19 & 20 mpg.Chevy owners dont believe me when I tell them the milage I get.I dont take real good care of this truck.But it has been the best truck I have ever owned.I will keep this truck until it just quits going.My oldest granddaughter wants it when I get tired of it.She may have to wait a while longer though.

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  Ford Ranger 2001 Edge JRB - 2001 Ford Ranger
  By drgn8slyr - September 20 - 2:00 am

  Wonderful vechicle, never has given any trouble to speak of except just normal maintenance, would recommend this to anyone, would buy Ford or ranger again in a heart beat. Has exceeded or met all expetations I had hoped to get from this truck. You take care of it, it takes care of you.

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  My Ranger - 2001 Ford Ranger
  By trainerboy - September 20 - 2:00 am

  I have loved my Ranger. The styling , performance and fun to drive aspects have been very pleasing!

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  thank you taurus - 2003 Ford Taurus
  By imadj - September 20 - 2:00 am

  We own a 2003 SEL "Loaded" Not only do we love the car, it must haved loved us. We were resently in an auto accident and I thank God that we were in a Taurus. The saftey fram saved us along with the side and front airbags. I have already put my request in to buy another "2003" Taurus. my rating is "Great" 100%