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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  BEST CAR EVER OWNED (unlike grand prix) - 1993 Ford Probe
  By bosanac - May 15 - 2:00 am

  I own a 93gt and it had a little over 100k on it. It has had its regular oil change and all, but besides that I havent invested a dime into it. I used to own a 2000 Grand prix gt in silver with horrible paint job. Down here its quite disturbing to have to see your cars paint chip off. I guess quality matters. Probes interior and the 5 speed tranny are a tremendous change and a upgrade from lame 200hp in a 3.8 GM engine. One thing I think Ford/Mazda should have improved was the fact that it doesnt provide you with cheap aftermarket(after warranty) parts. But, sofar I havent had to use my warranty.

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  Blue Me Away - 2017 Ford Explorer
  By Eric Kniedler - May 14 - 9:11 pm

  Have had the car for a few weeks. Traded in a BMW 535awd for this SUV thinking I was having to give up handling and road response. So far I have not been disappointed in either. The torque and quickness is great, handling is tight and concise and the ability to see your surroundings is great. I actually look forward to driving the car. Love the look of the car and interior layout. Have not taken it for a long road trip yet so this may highlight further pros and cons. One thing I DO NOT have to worry about are those run flat tires. In the BMW I felt I was always on an obstical course to miss pot holes on the highways. It does not take much to pop a tire. My new Explorer eats the road up with great clearance and worry free driving. My only complaint is the fuel mileage. Performs as promised and knew this when I bought it. Overall totally enjoy the car and happy with the purchase. Ford got this one correct.

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  Finally a car from Ford you can love - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By happywithford - May 14 - 9:03 pm

  Just bought my 2010 Ford Fusion with the Moon and Tune package. Drove it 400 miles in one night. Gas mileage is very high, 35-40 on the highway, 20-25 in town (who needs a hybrid?). The leather interior is soft and comfortable, the 4 cyl engine has surprisingly great performance and the ride is smooth and quiet. I have never had a car this nice before, and Ford has now spoiled me. You have to drive this car to really believe it, but have your checkbook handy, it will only take one drive to get hooked.

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  V6, but plenty peppy - 2002 Ford Mustang
  By iwphill - May 14 - 2:00 am

  Bought a 2002 V6 auto a week ago w/just under 25K miles, and its awesome! I didnt need a car that goes 0-60 in 4 seconds, but this car still passes plenty of "sporty" cars without much effort. Plus, its fun to drive and looks good, too. I usually buy imports, and just hope that F.O.R.D. doesnt really stand for Fix Or Repair Daily! So far, it hasnt missed a beat. Smooth ride, and not bad on gas.

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  An honest opinion - 2000 Ford Taurus
  By David S. - May 14 - 2:00 am

  I purchased my Taurus from my father-n- law(hes a used car dealer). To date,and Ive put about 6000 miles on the car...Ive had no problems. The care originally had 69k when purchased by me.

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  `` - 2000 Ford Ranger
  By jah117 - May 14 - 2:00 am

  `` this is a pretty good truck, not much else to say. It does its job just fine.

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  Throttle Body Issue - 2016 Ford Explorer
  By Tanisha S. - May 13 - 10:51 pm

  I was driving through a bad neighborhood, completely intending to hit the expressway when the system chimes and a wrench appears then the engine light appears. Immediately I lose the ability to accelerate. Scared to stop I literally coast/idle to a safe area for the FORD roadside assistance to come get me. The driver said he already picked up 6 Ford Explorers in the last few weeks with the same issue. WTF! I only have 8200 miles on it. Waiting to hear back now.

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  the best truck ever - 2004 Ford F-150
  By otoniel - May 13 - 10:00 am

  it is great to have a truck like this and is powerful

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  The Best Value for Money - 2004 Ford Escape
  By chatchai - May 13 - 10:00 am

  It is definitely the Best Value for Money.I would not hestitate to pay about 10-20% more for this V6+197 Hp.

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  Disappointed with Ford Motor Co - 2003 Ford Mustang
  By Jerry Naramore - May 13 - 10:00 am

  Love the car, but after only 318 miles, had to put a new motor in the car. Car was pampered and not driven hard for these 318 miles. The timing slipped and ruined the motor. Now it is not "orginal". Ford did not do anything to help me with this. I bought this car to sit on, now I feel the future value of the car has been diminished because it is not "original".