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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  Good Car - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By Chris002 - September 23 - 10:00 am

  The Explorer is good and reliable but does not have the greatest mileage

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  Still satisfied - 2005 Ford Freestar
  By Family Priorities - September 23 - 8:52 am

  We shopped around quite a bit with all brands of vans at the time, and Ford had the best safety at the time and historically. Safety of GM and Chrysler were unacceptable. Hondas was same as Chrysler, and had history of trans issues. Toyota had brought up their safety to match 5 star, but only more recently, and had history of engine sludge issues. Drives well, comfortable even on long trips, and plenty of room for kids and all associated junk. No major problems up to now. Good gas mileage and surprising performance for something of this weight, which is really what we needed for a double stroller, etc.

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  Best Ford Truck Yet - 2009 Ford F-150
  By Agent86 - September 22 - 10:31 pm

  This is my 8th Ford truck and 4th F-150. Although it is the lower-end STX, I find it more comfortable than my previous 2005 Lariat. The seats are more comfortable (although I have to agree that the headrests need to be less intrusive). The transmission is better matched to the engines needs and thus the 3V 4.6L feels more powerful than my previous 5.4L. I didnt think I would ever drive a truck more comfortable on the highway than my Lariat, I was wrong. Smooth is the only way I can describe this truck. A nice feature of my particular truck is that it has the carpet delete option so I dont have to worry about mud and snow messing up the carpet. I just wash it out.

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  Best Truck Ive been in - 2009 Ford F-150
  By Scott - September 22 - 1:41 pm

  I never expected such an all around excellent performer. This truck is very comfortable, quiet and very capable in every way. One reason I picked it over the Toyota Tundra is the large gas tank, 36 gallons vs 26 gallons. The extra capacity is very helpful when Im towing. Other great towing features are the integrated brake controller, and sway control.

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  08 Escape Thoughts - 2008 Ford Escape
  By nrwilliams - September 22 - 10:10 am

  I was waiting for a hybrid Escape but was not able to recieve it until maybe December which would have been 6 months. So I decided to get the 4cyl, 2wd and it has been great. The average mileage all around has been 24mpg. The noise level is also a lot less then the original model. The 4cyl is plenty of horsepower for the car considering the V6 isnt that much more.

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  Its more than promised - 2005 Ford Mustang
  By 1 for Fun - September 21 - 8:10 pm

  I still own my first car after driving it for 32 years. My Dad bought a 66 Thunderbird Convertible for my Mom in late 65. It is still my favorite of my 12 cars. For the first time since I got the T-bird at 16 years old, I am in love with my car again. Highly recommended; the car has proven to be pure fun.

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  Best Truck In America - 2005 Ford F-150
  By F. T. Kinney - September 21 - 3:32 pm

  I bought a 2005 Supercrew King Ranch. This truck is a piece of art in my opinion. It could not be more comfortable or look any more appealing to the eye. The Truck is a work horse and has all the power anyone could expect and a ride that is of the luxury car type. Anyone that is considering a truck for the long haul should look into a F series! Well worth the money!!!

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  Ford Freestyle 2005 - satisfaction - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By Jan - September 21 - 1:53 pm

  I was skeptical about trying the Ford Freestyles 1st year out, however, at this point I am glad that I did. So far I am very happy with it and the ride is smooth and the comfort is great. I had the Explorer years ago and I loved it and the Freestyle reminds me of the ride and comfort of the Explorer only better on gas. I would definitely recommend this car to everyone. I am often stopped and questioned about it. The climate control is great as is the sound quality of the radio and CD player.

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  Get deal for the $ - 2014 Ford F-150
  By Chuck - September 21 - 8:33 am

  This truck is a great deal.

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  What a Car - 2010 Ford Taurus
  By John - September 20 - 7:32 pm

  Ford out did themselves on this one. What a beautiful machine...Car rides like a dream....Beautiful design in and out....I love my new Taurus.