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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  One great ride - 1992 Ford Mustang
  By WPW - September 14 - 2:00 am

  If there ever was a car that made me say, "Damn, thats nice," this is it! I was so "in love", my wife and I bought the car in Phoenix and drove it home to Oklahoma City. Its been my baby ever since. I was surprised with how well made this car was, being a convertable with only minor few rattles. Also, being a five-speed sure boosts the "fun factor" through the roof!

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  Woodys F150S/B review - 2000 Ford F-150
  By Woodie - September 14 - 2:00 am

  I purchased this pickup hoping to get at least 20 MPG and this has been a disappoinment. The best I have ever gotten is 18 MPG going downhill. Other than that it has been a great truck. I like the handling and its performance. Has plenty of power for what I need. Just wish it got better mileage.

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  Love my truck!!! - 2003 Ford Ranger
  By peejay - September 13 - 2:00 am

  I traded in a 1990 Ford Ranger 4x4. This truck seems to be much wider then my previous truck. I have never had an automatic before, so it has been hard getting used to that. If I had it to go over again, I would buy a manual transmission. Other then that, it is a great truck.

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  built ford tough - 1996 Ford Explorer
  By justexploring - September 13 - 2:00 am

  I bought my Eplorer brand new for business travel purposes. I was getting more than 20k miles a year on it, and at the same time had hardly any problems. Keeping up on maitainance sure makes a difference in performance. It now has a little over 150k mile, and still running very well. Very comfortable, even when driving a few hours on the road. Handles very well on corners. The "Check Engine" light started bleeping when it hit 120k miles. Been going off and on since, but hasnt altered the performance. Mechanics havent figured whats the problem though. Very pleased, and would consider buy another explorer, when the time comes.

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  Windstar SEL 2001 - 2001 Ford Windstar
  By Wonderman - September 13 - 2:00 am

  This has been a great vehicle. A little short on power and inside conveniences but very reliable and great gas mileage. Just bought a 2003 as a matter of fact.

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  Cant beat a stang - 1999 Ford Mustang
  By Bevis and Butthead - September 13 - 2:00 am

  One of the best fastest cars for the money you spend on it. It has also been very mechanically sound for me.

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  its a blast - 2004 Ford Focus
  By zzoom1 - September 13 - 2:00 am

  this car is too much fun, its 0-60 times are ok, but its the total package of handling, horsepower and interior ergonomics--try to find a better all round package for 20k!!

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  Great vehicle - 2003 Ford Escape
  By Jim Greer - September 13 - 2:00 am

  I bought a 2002 Escape, Loved it so well, when the Limited came out in 03, In had to upgrade. This is an excellent vehicle. The ride and quality of the vehicle is great. The dealership I bought from is one of the best I have ever dealt with.

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  Fun Loving Ford Escape - 2003 Ford Escape
  By NyVision - September 13 - 2:00 am

  Lots of power, Fun to drive, Great handling.

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  Ford, Where Quality is Job 1, Ha! - 2001 Ford Crown Victoria
  By JamieL - September 13 - 2:00 am

  In the two years Ive owned the CV its been lots of trouble. Bad emission sensors required a trip back to the dealer within two weeks. Add to that the occasional engine troubles and I was mad enough. Last week the serpentine sp? belt broke causing the elctrical system to fail, the steering to quit working completely, and the engine to overheat. As for traction in PA winters, they ought to rename the CV to the Ford Death Sled. Couple this with the exploding gas tank in rear-end collisions (I havent experienced this personally) along with the super bland exterior styling and its easy to see why people buy Japanese.