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:

• 

  The Last of the REAL 4x4s - 1994 Ford Bronco
  By rdrna - August 16 - 2:00 am

  GREAT TRUCK! Recently took a trip to the great desert southwest and went on several desert trails over rocks and through the sand. Best place to test was Grand Staircase where the big Bronco handels a bit like a 2.5 ton solid axle go-kart. Great Fun! Interior very functional without all the soccer-mom baby-buggy BS the Expedition has (oh, did I mention it handels great off road too?), great power, great transfer case (BW 1356 Manual), great suspension.

• 

  Ford needs to bring back BRONCOS - 1996 Ford Bronco
  By micaiah - August 16 - 2:00 am

  Bought this truck used with 36000 miles on it for 12,500 and never have regretted it since. I had just got rid of a 98 4.6 and my dad had just purchased a new 5.4 and i drive both of them around. the 5.8 bronco outspeeds and outpowers both of those brand new trucks. it is the best lookin manliest suv on the road. and even though the 2 door is a drawback to some i like to have the option. they should bring the bronco back with the big block engine 5.8 and offer 2 or 4 doors.

• 

  In need of lager Truck - 2000 Ford F-150
  By Glenn630 - August 16 - 2:00 am

  I have 2 grandchildern and a Drum Set.The Dodge Dakota I had would not Hold My two Buddies. Bought This Truck and everything Just Fits. Truck Looks good , rides good and I like it.

• 

  4.2 under powered - 2000 Ford F-150
  By fennut - August 16 - 2:00 am

  I use this truck every day for installing fences It always gets the job done but the 4.2 V6 is under powered when truck is loaded or pulling a trailor

• 

  Its been a good strong car overall - 1995 Ford Taurus
  By Tj - August 16 - 2:00 am

  This cars base engine has been wonderful. I bought this car at 9,000 miles and now it has 113000 and I have put very little money into upkeep considering the amount of use. The speedometer went out, one rear window quit working and the windshield wiper fluid pump died. Lots of trouble with the hoses and had to replace the radiator. The cupholders are the worst design every. Fluid splashes up onto the stereo. Its been my only transportation for 8 years and its never died on me.

• 

  Great small truck - 1997 Ford Ranger
  By rangerguy - August 16 - 2:00 am

  Trouble free since we bought it. Great small truck that tows well. Would not hesitate to buy another ranger in the future

• 

  99 Ranger XLT 4WD - 1999 Ford Ranger
  By FLSTS - August 16 - 2:00 am

  In short... this is a pretty tough truck. It out tows any 4.3 Chevy I have owned. And does well in the snow. The rear seats are useless as well as the rear doors. It handles well but eats brakes and front tires. I would strongly suggest an extended warranty if you looking to buy one of these used.

• 

  I am glad I bought Ford Tough - 2003 Ford Ranger
  By wc123 - August 16 - 2:00 am

  Every thing with this truck has been just wonderful. From the sales person, owner and car. I love it.

• 

  My Explorer Experience - 1996 Ford Explorer
  By Range Rover - August 16 - 2:00 am

  My Ford Explorer was my first American auto after I sold my Range Rover. I bought this hardy lorry with 125000 miles and have only had a few minor problems that were easy fixes. Even at $40000 less than a Rover it still is a better lorry. It feels like it will never quit on me and I am putting aftermarket parts on it like it was a new auto. It looks like an expensive auto on the inside and All-American on the outside.

• 

  Escape1 - 2002 Ford Escape
  By jim g - August 15 - 2:00 am

  I drive a vehicle very hard and this Escape has handled the stress quite well. It has a great turning radius and the engine power is very responsive in passing situations.