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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  My new truck - 2004 Ford F-150
  By ford grl - March 19 - 2:00 am

  I traded in 2002 Liberty due to poor fuel econemy, driveability in the winter,lack of space, and limited towing. My new truck has taken care of all these prob. Including fuel econemy.

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  Nicest truck ever - 2004 Ford F-150
  By rhswithrow321 - March 19 - 2:00 am

  This is the best F-150 I have ever drove in my life. It is has just enough power and the new look is awesome. The interior and exterior is the best looking truck on the market. It rides great and has fairly good gas milage. I would recomend this truck to any one.

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  wow - 2004 Ford F-150
  By ts01 - March 19 - 2:00 am

  tried 4 other brands and being a chevy guy i deceided to switch to ford.this truck outdoes chevy in every way.Even with its small shortcommings.

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  NO POWER - 2004 Ford F-150
  By BAX - March 19 - 2:00 am

  TRUCK IS VERY COMFORTABLE JUST TO SMALL OF BED. NOT ENOUGH POWER VERY SLOW TAKE OFF. BAD GAS MILEAGE

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  the best - 2004 Ford F-150
  By himmertime - March 19 - 2:00 am

  its the best truck ive ever owned

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  Great Vehicle - 2004 Ford Explorer Sport Trac
  By Dennis Weller - March 19 - 2:00 am

  My Ford Explorer Sport Trac is a good running vehicle. I did expect better fuel economy. The v6 has alot of power. I have been asked alot by people about the vehicle, it really stands out and turns heads. The comfort is great and it rides high off the ground.

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  LUV IT! - 2004 Ford Explorer Sport Trac
  By dcarver - March 19 - 2:00 am

  I have had mine for 18 months and I luv it! It is fun to drive and cuts thru snow like a plow! My kid love the rear window in the spring. I wish the MPG were better but that is my only complaint.

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  My 03 Sports Trac - 2004 Ford Explorer Sport Trac
  By Exxchuck - March 19 - 2:00 am

  Looks great but handling is questionable. Too bouncy which causes a feeling of not being in total control of the vehicle. Gas milage is only fair at 17 in town and 19 on the road. Lots of aminities and the 6 CD player is great.

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  Excellent - 2004 Ford Explorer Sport Trac
  By RobSky - March 19 - 2:00 am

  Nice vehicle. Wanted one and finally got one. Like the versatility.

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  tracker review - 2004 Ford Explorer Sport Trac
  By rjp - March 19 - 2:00 am

  I still to this day get people stopping me to tell me what a great looking truck I have.