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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  This is a great car! - 2007 Ford Fusion
  By mjhess123 - September 18 - 11:06 pm

  I have to admit, I like Fords so I may be a bit biased. However I also like quality. The Fusion gives me the best of both worlds. This car is a real winner and I have encouaged people to drive this car. I owned a 2000 BMW 328i with a sport suspension and I think the Fusion handles nearly as well. I would have never believed it had I not driven the car, but its very impressive. The V6 has plenty of power and I really like the 6-speed auto. Theres a little initial hesitation with a good stomp on the accelerator but the higher-end torque is nice. On top of that, its a sharp looking car that people notice. Ford did a great job with the Fusion and hopefully theyll sell many of them.

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  1995 ford thunderbird v6 101k 14 yrs old - 1995 Ford Thunderbird
  By JamesV6Birdy - September 18 - 9:07 pm

  Hello Im 19 years old and have owned my bird for about a year,I have always enjoyed working on cars especially this one. As far as driving goes mine is a V6 so no"show stopper"but for what it is power is not to bad. the independent rear susp.makes for a very good ride,smooth and glidey feeling.The fact it is rwd might deter some buyers,but i live in Michigan and have no problem getting around,the IRS,and ABS systems make this a very easy car to drive. I would recommend this car to anyone. Period give this car a chance bring the super coupe back!!!! Henry ford

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  Finally getting it right - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By wheaties99 - September 18 - 10:00 am

  I must say after being extremely dissapointed with the Explorer,Ford seems to be on the right track. Im 6 2" and have never had more room in any vehicle. Acceleration is good. gas mileage is excellent for a vehicle its size and the trans is extremely SMOOTH. It feels very funny to not feel it shifting. It is also reasonably priced while being loaded up with a lot of goodies. Definately a good buy.

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  Best of those tested - 2005 Ford Escape
  By Edward R. Johnson - September 18 - 10:00 am

  This SUV is everything its advertized. It handles like a car, has visibality of a pickup, and the exceleration of a sportscar. The ride is excellent, and its FUN to drive. The headlight system exceeds anything I ever owned, visability at night is excellent. The only drawback is, as mentioned in other reviews, the small gas tank and limited range. So, I have to refill the tank more often -- no big deal.

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  Oh What a Feeling! - 2004 Ford F-150
  By Rdonovan491 - September 18 - 10:00 am

  I fell in love as soon as a sat in the new Ford! What an improvement in comfort and design. The toughest decision was choosing between the Lariat and th FX. I chose the Lariat finally due to a slightly prefeered guage look. I was a little concerned about driving it after hearing some of the reviews on it lacking power. It felt fine, if you want 0-50 acceleration in my opinion by a car! The pulling and ability to climb hills was great.

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  So Good So Far - 2008 Ford F-150
  By ATL2059 - September 18 - 7:26 am

  I bought the truck back in January and it has done well overall. Other than the the tailgate trim piece coming off on one end that was replaced under warranty, it has held up well. The truck drives well and the fuel economy is what should be expected from it. 15 in the city 18 to 19 on the Hwy. The power of the 5.4 is there but it is geared low. It wont be the first one off the line but it will cruise comfortably at 80 no problem. Overall it has been good so far and i hope it will continue to do so.

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  WILL ALWAYS LOVE IT! - 1998 Ford Explorer
  By g8torgirl - September 17 - 4:45 pm

  Im the original owner and primary driver-its been flawless other than a new A/C in 2003 ($750). Live in FL, but have driven it often to/from/in NC mountains and it was great w/the manual transmission, made it tons o fun. Decent mileage for an SUV (22/19 mpg). Oil is changed every 3,000 mi. Had 3 sets of tires-Goodrich lasts longest-Goodyear the least and the most flats (too soft). Replaced one out of round wheel ($450) under warranty. Minor leaks in back fixed windows. No rollovers (driver error in my opinion & Im a woman). Exterior finish and wheels are still shiny (we wax). Bought vinyl liner for cargo area and excellent mats--a great investment. My previous vehicle? Manual88 BroncoII

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  Great American car! - 2005 Ford Focus
  By Very good choice! - September 17 - 10:56 am

  Bought my 05 Focus in 06. I have put almost 100,000 miles on it with no major problems.I did have to replace the rack and pinion and wheels after hitting a very bad pot hole (Michigan...)Ford did have to replace the CD player twice, but no problems since it was out of warranty. Drives and handles very nicely. Comfortable and roomy interior for a compact. Great mileage. I average 30 in the city. This is an outstanding vehicle for its class and price. Good design well worth every penny which is more than can be said for most cars.

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  Ford Makes a Breakthrough! - 2009 Ford Flex
  By Wills Films C.E.O. - September 16 - 9:20 pm

  The all new Ford Flex is just what I have been waiting for from Ford. Ford has mad a tremendous effort to make good styling, comfort, good gas mileage, and advance technology and they achieved all of those goals with the Ford Flex. I am very satisfied with the Sync system. It makes driving and talking on the phone so easy. I was shocked to find so much leg room in the first, second, and third row. And the technology and devices are out of this world amazing. I love the sun roof(s) that are in each seat, navigation system, DVD players, refrigerator, the power outlets, rear view camera, power lifting tailgate, and the heating and cooling seats it surely makes my life a lot funner and easier.

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  F-150 Super Crew - the perfect solution - 2001 Ford F-150
  By hokiefanz4 - September 16 - 4:36 pm

  Having a car-truck-SUV dilemma? Need all three; only your checkbook wont stretch that far? Heres the perfect solution! Acres of room & leather interior makes you forget its a truck. Rear seats fold flat for unbelievable cargo capacity. Open your hard tonneau cover for the perfect fix for your hauling blues! Cover removes in 15 minutes. Handles so well and looks so sharp you might have a hard time convincing your wife to let you take HER truck for a spin!