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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  Wow...they got it right.... - 2003 Ford Thunderbird
  By Steve P - February 12 - 2:00 am

  I saw the picture over two years ago, and started saving right away. The car responds to all my commands, and is built to seat a man of 6, 235. The weight of the vehicle (almost 3900 lbs) makes me feel like i have control and the power allows for quick accelaration and just wonderful confidence for passing. The subtle grumbling of the exhaust has me driving with the sound system off. Although i would of like to have seen a non-Lincoln interior and maybe a bit more trunk space, this car is all i hoped it would be...good job Ford, now teach the dealers what gas to recommend and that this is not a Focus or Mustang and the buyers are a bit more refined.

• 

  Wow...they got it right.... - 2003 Ford Thunderbird
  By steve p - February 12 - 2:00 am

  I saw the picture over two years ago, and started saving right away. The car responds to all my commands, and is built to seat a man of 6, 235. The weight of the vehicle (almost 3900 lbs) makes me feel like i have control and the power allows for quick accelaration and just wonderful confidence for passing. The subtle grumbling of the exhaust has me driving with the sound system off. Although i would of like to have seen a non-Lincoln interior and maybe a bit more trunk space, this car is all i hoped it would be...good job Ford, now teach the dealers what gas to recommend and that this is not a Focus or Mustang and the buyers are a bit more refined.

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  Ford Wagon - 1999 Ford Taurus
  By jjajijic - February 12 - 2:00 am

  Best car for the money, we travel a lot including Mexico. Hauls all our gear, and not like a Mini van or suv you can see and easy to park.

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  taurus problems - 1990 Ford Taurus
  By Melvin - February 12 - 2:00 am

  stalls often cant find out what it is transmition problems advice do not buy for a first car for teenagers

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  Changed my image of Ford - 1996 Ford Taurus
  By frank trobridge - February 12 - 2:00 am

  I bought this car with 60,000 miles in 2000 - for only $5000! Now I have over 100,000 mile on it and it drive just as good as the day I bought it. This car has been amazing. I was wary about buying a Ford, but this car changed my mind. The ride is extremely smooth and the seats are soft and comfortable, not like the rock-hard seats in other comparible vehicles. If you are wary about buying a Ford, buy one of these, they are amazing. I have only had to replace the battery aside from normal tune-ups. This car drives like it will go another 100,000 miles on it.

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  Not your Fathers Taurus - 2002 Ford Taurus
  By hiandy - February 12 - 2:00 am

  When looking for a new car to buy, the last thing I wanted to get was my Dads car. But one look at the sleek design of the Taurus SEL with a spoiler and you quickly discover this is not a conservative car. The power and smooth ride is truly unbelievable. I have driven this car at 110 mph and it was smooth as glass thanks to the big 16" tires. The engine is powerful and reliable at 200 hp. On the inside, its pure luxury. Power everything, sunroof, and a kick-butt Mach stereo system, keeps me smiling every mile I drive. This is truly a great car. At 19000 miles, I havent had any problems.

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  A Great Vehicle - 2000 Ford Contour
  By IInfinity - February 12 - 2:00 am

  I love my contour sport - it is fun, yet classy! It most certainly feels sporty, and hugs corners quite well, it also handles WNY winters with ease (which is saying something). Contrary to other reviews, the vehicle has more than enough passenger space. The lunch crew(3 tall, broad-shouldered men fit comfortably). I also use the vehicle for carting around Girl Scout supplies and helpers without trouble. If you really want a family car, buy a Taurus, which is also a wonderful vehicle and will give you even more passenger space if thats what youre looking for.

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  ford aerostar 4wd - 1993 Ford Aerostar
  By Don - over the hill - February 12 - 2:00 am

  My favorite vehicle of four decades

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  Festi - 1990 Ford Festiva
  By rgrabill - February 12 - 2:00 am

  Best vehicle bargain Ive ever found.

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  My Big Black X - 2003 Ford Excursion
  By chip - February 12 - 2:00 am

  This vehicle does it ALL. I sold my RAM2500 4wd V10 and got this. The ram was good, THIS THING IS GREAT. Towing, fuel economy, power...AWESOME!! My wife was terrified to drive it at first (used to her 5 series BMW) but now I have to fight with her to drive it. She loves it. The only problem is I cant fit it in the garage. Oh well. After I lift it, it wouldnt fit in there anyway. Buy one if youre in the market.