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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  the 2nd one - 1996 Ford Bronco
  By bronco chip - December 17 - 2:00 am

  The 1st Bronco that I owned was a 1985 xlt with a 351. This was one helluva truck. After I sold it, I came across a 1996 xlt with only 55k actual miles. This truck was extremely clean and I bought it on the spot. I use it during the winter months to get in to quite muddy areas. During the summer months, I pull a large boat with no problems.

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  Fun to drive - 1999 Ford Contour
  By CarDude123 - December 17 - 2:00 am

  Thought the Honda was the bomb until I drove the Contour. I tryed to put the Contour into a "controlled-skid" at a midspeed (30-35 mph) with a very sharp turn, then darn thing wouldnt let go of the road. Tried it three times before giving up. The layout and instruments are easy to understand and utilize. The trunk is roomy. It is a blast to drive. Very low cost of ownership. I do my regular maintenace and have had no problems at all. Knock on wood. My first one was a 98 with 4 cyl. (plenty of power) and I upgraded to a 99 6 cyl to get more bells and whistles. Loved them both.

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  Its a great little SUV - 2005 Ford Escape
  By Denise - December 16 - 7:16 pm

  It is a great fun vehicle to drive. It is reliable and a great vehicle to travel in with the family. It has plenty of room, very comfortable and still isnt as big as most of the other SUVs that are on the road. Its perfect for a smaller family. And our Lab loves riding in the back area.

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  Its a Keeper - 2001 Ford Mustang
  By kevinandtrish - December 16 - 10:00 am

  Solid feeling car, no squeaks or rattles yet, more of an "axe" feel than "stilletto" - if this car had a chest, itd be wide and hairy.

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  Brake light - 1996 Ford Explorer
  By Aesops - December 16 - 10:00 am

  Rear collision avoidance light is WELDED to the hatch. To replace costs over $400; sorry engineering. Also, seat belt for rear pax isuncomfortable and constantely locks up.

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  Very poor choice - 1999 Ford Taurus
  By bdelauri - December 16 - 10:00 am

  I have nothing but major and minor problems with this car. Not to mention that it has no good resale value. I have had to replace numerous things such as: power steering pump, abs sensors, trans mission, engiene and front struts are now going out. And on and on if I had more time....:(

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  Fun to Drive On Road or Off Road - 2001 Ford Ranger
  By Kona - December 16 - 10:00 am

  This is a fun truck to drive, gas mileage could be better but it is a 4 wheel drive. I have had a few warranty issues but Ford has fixed all, windows vibrate going down has been the biggest problem. But other than that it has and is a fun ride.

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  Great SUV!!! - 2001 Ford Explorer Sport Trac
  By txjul - December 16 - 10:00 am

  Great truck, comfortable yet versatile!

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  Focus SE Hatch / A Drivers car - 2012 Ford Focus
  By nickinpitt - December 16 - 5:07 am

  Just sold my Nissan Altima (5sp, 2.5L) in for a Ford Focus Hatch. The Focus hatch (manual) is a fantastic little small luxury ride - one that feels like a german sedan w/o the price tag, insurance hike, and worry about part cost. The manual is perfectly paired to the engine, it is quiet @ 80, and option package 203A does a great job for what it is supposed to do (Sirius, bluetooth, MP3 player pairing). If you are in the market for a small to mid-size ride, you owe it to yourself to at least consider this car. I applaud what Hyundai has done - but they are a generation behind when it comes to this small hatch. Good luck in your purchase, Nick

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  xls is a great model - 2001 Ford Explorer
  By Kyle Robarts - December 16 - 2:00 am

  drives great and has great gas mileage for a V6 engine, 17 MPG in town, and 23 on the highway.