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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  4DR GL Sedan - 1996 Ford Taurus
  By MHD - February 28 - 2:00 am

  I bought the car from an private owner with 58,000 miles, whohad purchased it from a Budget Rental store (that was probably MY biggest mistake). Hehad the transmission rebuilt. Small annoying things have gone wrong - relays, rusted rear brake caliper, windshield washer problems, etc. Larger problems - a u-joint in the steering column had to be replaced (the mechanic said this was probably a factory defect). A head gasket blew in the summer and ruined the engine (I failed to read the signs - rust in the coolan). Engine replaced from 98 Taurus - the car runs great now (sigh). The body is rusting in a rear fender well.

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  Fine Vehicle Even in Houston - 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By CG - February 27 - 6:53 am

  I was nervous about purchasing new automotive technology but I have been completely satisfied by the reliability and performance of the Ford Escape Hybrid. As another reviewer noted, in hot humid climates like Houston where use of MAX AC is mandatory, the gas engine runs, reducing gas mileage. For the other 5 months of fall/winter/spring that we have, the SUV is blast! All year round it performs like a 6 cylinder SUV. The exterior and interior finishes are of good quality.

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  Best vehicle I have owned! - 1998 Ford Expedition
  By David D. - February 27 - 2:00 am

  I have changed the oil, braks and tires, that is it!! I really enjoy mine, so much that I just got a 2003. This is the most reliable vehicle and has served me well! I will always be an Expedition driver!

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  Car is a piece of Junk - 1996 Ford Taurus
  By Goose00 - February 27 - 2:00 am

  This car had to have a transmission installed after 50,000 miles and Ford would not budge with sharing in the cost. After 100,000 miles it need another transmission. It has had numerous problems mechanically and I am without heat for the past two years due to the heater is stuck on luck warm and it would have to go back to the dealer to have the dash board taken off to repair this problem. The service engine soon light comes on all the time with a variety of problems, the last one would of cost me in excess of $1,000. I suugest not buying this vehicle or any Ford for that matter as they do treat their customers right at all.

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  Pain in the butt! - 1999 Ford Ranger
  By REL - February 27 - 2:00 am

  I bought this truck used with 26000 miles on it.The cushioning in the drivers seat was completely worn down,and I can feel the steel pan whenever I drive.The door ajar light will come on,and the dome light will stay on(theres no off switch on the light).I only get 20 mpg in mixed driving(w/the 2.5 4cyl.)And The mass air flow sensor will malfunction causing the engine to hesitate and stall.Ive owned 2 toyotas prior to this,and will sell this p.o.s and buy another !

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  Stang Chang - 1996 Ford Mustang
  By stangfanatic - February 27 - 2:00 am

  Nice Drive, Lots of power, cheap power.

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  my black beauty - 1999 Ford Mustang
  By hella good 43 - February 27 - 2:00 am

  I recently bought my 99 Mustang GT Convertible&have yet to be dissappointed.Its beautiful,&the interior is roomy enough for 2 up front,however,I quickly abandoned the possibility of fitting 2 comfortably in the back.It can be done, but only by scooting the front seats up considerably,which could be bearable for short trips,but not on long ones.Trunk space also leaves a bit to be desired.The stereo systems great for factory, the exteriors hot,&outside noise is pretty minimal considering it is a convertible.Im impressed!My beauty is definitly a head-turner,&I look forward to thousands more miles with him!

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  F150 XLT Lariat - 1991 Ford F-150
  By Mic - February 27 - 2:00 am

  This truck has been the most reliable vehicle i have ever owned. I have only had to do basic maintenance. The body has held up exceptionally well considering the snow & salt of Ohio.

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  Its a Keeper - 1998 Ford Windstar
  By cwnow - February 27 - 2:00 am

  This van has been wonderfull. It is reliable and fun to drive. I use it daily for business, then hope in for weekends on trips with the family. I have had fairly minor problems with the vehicle over time. The only real gripe I have is that the paint job has begun to fade, but being red and in the Florida Sun this was to be expected.

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  I love my new car!! - 2012 Ford Focus
  By jwagg7483 - February 26 - 9:05 pm

  Coming from a GM family, I was a little nervous about driving a Ford. I love it! Its gorgeous, affordable, and fun to drive. I have noticed that it stalls when I first take off, but I am coming from a 6 cylinder and I probably try to push it too far at take-off. The car is small, so my 63", 300 lb step-son cannot ride comfortably, but my other kids (theyre normal size) love it. Overall, its a great car. I am happy with my decision and my father did not disown me. LOL!