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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  Excellent Choice - 2004 Ford F-150
  By scomo72 - April 25 - 6:56 pm

  I purchase this truck about 5 months ago and am definately impressed. I love the endless compliments I receive on the interior and exterior looks. We just a foot of snow and ice and my truck handled beautifully. Honestly, I didnt even need the 4 wheel drive the majority of the time. And as far as the fuel efficiency, it does really well compared to my friends who have a similar Ram and Chevy truck. I love me truck.

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  The perfect car - 2016 Ford Focus
  By Christian Wilson - April 25 - 1:12 pm

  Go to a place where the sales people know their product and are willing to take the time to explain the vehicle to you. This is the first time I purchased a Ford product and I had a good sales person who took the time to discuss the vehicle and show many of the things that make it a great vehicle. I find the rear view camera to be a great asset and the car is comfortable to ride in, but a little difficult to get into, but in time I am sure that I will adjust to it.

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  ford f-250 power stroke diesel - 1997 Ford F-250
  By PENA - April 25 - 2:00 am

  Ive had only one problem with this truck, the computer went out about 2 mo. after I had bought it. it was replaced under warrenty.

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  I love Fords! (NOT!) - 2000 Ford Windstar
  By MEG - April 25 - 2:00 am

  Hows this for FORD quality? Battery shorts out @ 1000 miles- Slider doors creak in wet weather. Dealer fix is to lube weather strip. This has been done 6 times now! CD/Radio died Liftgate latch broke at 2000 miles Transmission replaced at 18K miles Power steering pump, and rack & pinion replaced @ 22K miles. (Thankfully the vehicle was still under warranty) The depreciation on the vehicle is a killer. In 3 years, the car is now only worth $10K (with only 27K miles) This is my first and last Ford.

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  Definite Workhorse - 1997 Ford F-150
  By pdm2 - April 25 - 2:00 am

  The 60/40 seat style is right out of the 50s as are the springs bounciness. However easilly fixable with quality bucket seats via after market. Weak rear Axle needed replacing by 30,000 mi. Otherwise, pure pleasure Ill keep till the wheels fall off.

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  Love my Five Hundred! - 2005 Ford Five Hundred
  By MG - April 24 - 6:23 pm

  I love my Five Hundred. I bought it used at a rent a car place with approx 20000 miles. I now have 32000 on it and its at the Ford shop waiting for a new engine. Thankfully Ford honored my warranty since I had records of oil changes. Who knows why the engine went bad. Probably someone drove it like a rental.

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  the best - 2005 Ford Mustang
  By brian - April 24 - 2:00 pm

  This car is amazing! It feels looks and performs like a vehicle two classes above what its in. For $33.5 loaded, you just cant get a better looking and performing car anywhere. To match it youd need to spend at least $45k. I almost gave in a bought a coupe when they hit the market, but am so glad I waited for the convertible. Hint - to really change it and make its classic lines more evident, order it without the spoiler.

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  6 Tall - 2002 Ford Mustang
  By Moe - April 24 - 10:00 am

  Extremely stylish exterior. Not too bad on gas considering it is a sporty car. Stops on a dime, and can get to 60 in no time. Also, I moved a while ago and I was able to pack a lot more in than I had originally thought I would be able to.

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  6 Tall - 2002 Ford Mustang
  By moe - April 24 - 10:00 am

  Extremely stylish exterior. Not too bad on gas considering it is a sporty car. Stops on a dime, and can get to 60 in no time. Also, I moved a while ago and I was able to pack a lot more in than I had originally thought I would be able to.

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  My experience... - 2000 Ford Focus
  By DMNTLL - April 24 - 10:00 am

  Lots of space in the wagon, and has some get-up-and-go for when you need it. A co-worker told me he has never seen anyone driving a Focus that isnt zipping along the highway. I explained, "We just enjoy driving!" I have a family of four and it has been a great car for us.