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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  2009 Ford Ranger XLT 4x4 SS Auto - 2009 Ford Ranger
  By EZRider - May 29 - 9:25 am

  The Ranger feels well built with no squeaks & rattles. The super cab 2- door space behind the seats is adequate for gear. I passed on the jump seats since I know of no one that small. The engine has decent power, but the fuel economy is abyssmal at around 15 MPG or so. Glad I dont have to drive much. The ride is a bit bouncy but well cushioned (I have the optional larger tires). The truck tends to wander a bit at highway speeds and requires the drivers attention on bumpy turns. All considered, I like this truck much better than my previous Chev Colorado - similarly equipped.

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  ranger review - 2004 Ford Ranger
  By cashen - May 29 - 2:00 am

  VERY NICE TRUCK. IF YOU CANT AFFORD AN F150 OR IF ITS TOO BIG. THEN THE RANGER IS AN EXCELLENT CHOICE.

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  All Cracked Up - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By Allcrackedup - May 29 - 2:00 am

  I have enjoyed owning the Explorer over the past year, however I have been disappointed with the quality. Over the past year I have had the front bushings replaced, one of the windows stopped opening, and just recently the panel on the back hatch has cracked. I was told this problem was due to poor engineering. Overall I am happy but am worried more problems will occur after the warranty period is up.

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  get a chevy instead - 2005 Ford F-150
  By nick - May 28 - 12:23 pm

  when i bought it seemed to be doing fine, then the transmission went out at 60k right when the waranty expired. gas mileage stinks and its only a 2 wheel drive. went out and bought a chevy instead, they last at least twice as long with allison transmissions.

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  Great Car! - 2002 Ford Mustang
  By coloradodano - May 28 - 10:00 am

  Overall, a very fun car. Jet black w/black interior looks sharp! Handles great, love the way it corners. The V6 is pretty good, and given the cost of insurance for the V8, its very acceptable. The MACH sound system is fantastic!

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  very pleased - 2000 Ford Econoline Wagon
  By mommasimpson - May 28 - 7:16 am

  We bought this van when we were expecting our fourth child and weve really enjoyed it. We have four captain chairs and we love the way we can herd all the kids in and shut the doors before we get everybody in their seats. For a big family I think this car is a better buy and more comfortable than any SUV weve had. My husband wants to trade mine and get a newer model but at 106,000 miles it still runs great. If I ever get another, Ill spring for a high top with leather seats.

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  Reliability 100% - 1998 Ford F-150
  By Zowy - May 27 - 12:08 am

  Its all about reliability. Powerful at low speed. So much torque. Awesome 4x4. Large cargo area. Not so much repair cost. Very easy to find out used parts. VERY Reliable. This is my second F150. For sure will have it for many years.

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  This pony wont quit - 1998 Ford Escort
  By Dennis - May 26 - 9:22 pm

  I have put on 40,000 miles after the first owners 206,000 miles. The engine still runs perfectly with surprising mileage --30-32 mpg in my daily 45 mile commute through and around Detroit and up to 40 mpg in slower highway driving. The body has not a squeak or rattle. Snow traction is great. Ive driven through a foot of snow without any problem other than ice getting jammed in the suspension. The AC failed last year estimates were for more than I paid for the car so I am living with that. I replaced rear struts at about 230,000 miles. Looking ahead, I see only months left on the clutch and 3rd gear is down to a nub so I have to decide soon whether to see if I can get another 200k.

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  Good Buy - 2009 Ford Fusion
  By SK - May 26 - 5:20 pm

  I switched to Ford since they didnt take bailout money and I am happy so far. The engine is noisy when accelerating but smooth on the highway. It seems like 1st gear is too low since it shifts to 2nd at about 10 MPH in normal driving. Gas mileage has averaged 22.5 in mixed driving. My kids like the ambient interior lighting, moonroof, and sirius radio. The maintenance manual shows oil changes every 7,500 miles which is more convenient than 3,000. This is one of the best rated american cars for reliability so I am looking forward to years of hassle free driving

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  I have been converted - 2007 Ford Fusion
  By Jim - May 26 - 3:01 pm

  My Chevy Cavalier was on her last legs, and I was looking for upgrades, with an emphasis on price, safety, and fuel economy. I looked all over, and my wife dragged me (kicking and screaming) to the Ford dealer. I test drove the Fusion and instantly knew this was what I wanted. Good mpg, very comfortable and roomy, though those who are 6 or taller with long torsos may find head room a bit tight. After about 40,000 miles, no problems, averaging 27-30 mpg in mixed driving. 4 cyl a bit whiney but what ones arent? Ford has really gotten their act together, and the Fusion is great proof of this.