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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  Stylin & wooo profilin! - 2001 Ford Mustang
  By NatureBoyRic - August 10 - 2:00 am

  This Mustang is one of the best I have driven. I went from a 4cyl car so, this Pony seems to have great get up n go with its 6 cyl.

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  Mustang is FUN - 1999 Ford Mustang
  By jaybird - August 10 - 2:00 am

  I bought my 1999 Mustang brand new in 1999. It was one of the first 13 sold in my city that year. From the moment I first sat in the car for test drive I was in love with the car. In a little over 4 years, I have not had any trouble - mechanical or otherwise - with this car. It is a blast to drive and still gets looks everywhere I go!

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  Reliable Pony - 1999 Ford Mustang
  By Jorge G - August 10 - 2:00 am

  I have had this car for over 4 years now. I am going to sell it to get the 2003 Cobra. I would say that this is the best car I have ever owned. I only had one problem with it. The ignition switch went out, but the dealer took care of that. No charge, it was still under warranty. The gas milage is not great, but if that is what you want buy a 4 banger.

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  Best Buy!! - 2002 Ford Taurus
  By Joe Grinds - August 10 - 2:00 am

  Dollar of dollar, the Ford Taurus pack a real punch in the mid-size market. When I bought this car, I though the drive was fine but was very impresseed by the price. However, after driving it for two months, I have fallen in love with the car. It drives and handles beautifully! I cant believe that it is an American car - No disrespect intended Detriot. My previous car was a Mitsubishi Lancer, but this car drives far better, and at a price that is very competitive! Ford, you now have a convert.

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  2002 Taurus SES- Outstanding Value - 2002 Ford Taurus
  By rayban-usa - August 10 - 2:00 am

  A remarkable vehicle for the price you pay. As a new car it is an exceptional value. As a used vehicle this vehicle is an absolute steal. Let the original owner take the hit on the depreciation for the first year and pick up a one year old Taurus for half price. The SES is stylish and packed with luxury features as well as excellent performance. Take a closer look at this well built vehicle, new or used.

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  get the duratec!! - 2000 Ford Taurus
  By z3pilot - August 10 - 2:00 am

  I purchased this car used in the spring of 2003. It had 48k on it, 55k now. I drove the Duratec(24v) powered Taurus and said this is what I want. This car is very comfortable, handles pretty good for a large family sedan, And, I have embarassed a couple souped up hondas and toyotas with the acceleration. It is not the fit and finish of a honda/toyota but I only paid 8900 for it. The only thing I would change about the my Taurus Brakes. Brakes are what every review complains about. They have not given me any trouble but the car does not stop very quickly. So if your shopping for a family sedan. Check out a Duratec (24V) Taurus.

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  Incredable change - 2003 Ford Excursion
  By Rando C - August 10 - 2:00 am

  I just purchased my excursion and absolutely love it. I have an explorer that I have had since 97. I have enjoyed it but needed extra room. Based on my experience with Ford, I knew I was going with a Ford. I just had to decide between expedition and the excursion. Bowditch treated extremely well during the whole process. They were ready for me when I came in. I handled most of my dealing over the net. I dont think I will look back. We are already getting as good of mileage as the explorer. Thanks so much to Ford again and to Bowditch. Two great partners....

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  Initially impressed... currently a lemon - 2000 Ford Expedition
  By keith1walk - August 10 - 2:00 am

  I purchased this new in 1999 and was initially impressed with the powerful 5.4L engine, looks and comfort. Always dealer serviced. I thought by buying new and dealer maintained, any issues would be resolved early. What a surprise. It developed a rough idle and after 3 trips to the dealer, convienently after the warranty, a blown head gasket was diagnosed. $1800.00!!! The dealership paid half but that was still $900.00 and the other trips that totaled $500.00. Now ABS light is on. A $38,000 vehicle shouldnt have these problems. Next car will be a Toyota Sequoa. Tried to buy american but...cant afford to.

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  its mine - 2003 Ford Windstar
  By greg b - August 10 - 2:00 am

  windstar is built better that the dodgecaravan.windstars int. dont look as cheap as the caravan...

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  Best car Ive ever owned! - 2001 Ford Explorer Sport
  By misspriss82 - August 9 - 10:35 pm

  I bought my 2001 Ford Explorer Sport 2-door used in 2003 for $14k, with 25k miles on it. I now have 120k miles on it after 8 years of owning it and have decided it is time to start researching for something new. I havent had ANY problems with this vehicle. Ive had to do regular maintenance and Im just now replacing the brakes that went out this week. This has been a fantastic vehicle and I will be sad to trade it in. I think it would be a great car for a high school student learning how to drive. I did have to replace the cd player, as it stopped working.