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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  Stay away from the 4cyl - 1990 Ford Mustang
  By Crase - September 3 - 2:00 am

  I bought my mustang with over 100,000 miles on it, and it has been a great car. When something does break, it is easy to work on and parts are easy to find. When looking for a Mustang to buy, go with the 5 speed, 5.0 litre coupe. The automatic has problems, as does the convertibles top.

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  Coopers Mustang Review - 1999 Ford Mustang
  By cooper - September 3 - 2:00 am

  I bought the Mustang used in 2000. The Ford had 18,000 miles on it and I ran the total to 56,000. I have not had a single problem in the 38,000 miles and the 2 years Ive owned the car. Handles as good as it looks. Impressive!

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  Want Another Car - 2005 Ford Mustang
  By GT Premium - September 2 - 10:30 pm

  I just recently bought this car and have put very few miles on it. My first test was driving it to Boston. While there I had an accident in which the front of my car collapsed at only 20 mph hitting the back of a SUV. It response is very good but it seems too cheap on the inside.

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  I am loving it - 2008 Ford Focus
  By Staying "Focused" - September 2 - 6:50 am

  I just bought my little Ford Focus and am so happy. I used to drive a Honda Accord Coupe and have to say I love the Focus more. I get an average of 29 city miles and well not sure yet what I will get on highway. I used to own a Ford Escort long time ago and swore I would never buy another Ford. Well they have proven me wrong. I am very happy with my selection. And have a ball driving to work.

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  Excellent car! - 2007 Ford Crown Victoria
  By Mr Bean - September 2 - 5:00 am

  The Crown Victoria is a great car. This is the third one that I own and it is just as good as the other two that I had. These cars hardly ever brake down and the only maintenance thats required is regular fluid changes. Crown Victoria is also very comfortable to ride in. It drives as smooth as a boat which it kinda is. The handling has been greatly improved since a few years ago and it has plenty of power.

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  Perfect Family Compromise - 2007 Ford Edge
  By MJM - September 2 - 3:10 am

  If you are looking for a family vehicle but dont want a minivan or full size SUV, Edge is it. Ive read all the reviews from major publications to googling Ford Edge reviews. Only real knock I can find are the brakes, its 60-0 stop is lackluster, Ford, please address. All around, engine is stellar, 6-speed auto performs well, handling nice feel but not ultra sporty, ride quality the same, blend of comfort not to squishy (Buick Like) but not Mazda like either. Test drove all others, came down to CX-7 and Edge. Wanted the CX-7 to be the winner but Edge had more room, easier access to rear seats, ie, car seats, just more practical day to day. Crash test ratings canÂ’t be beat.

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  Under-engineered - 1995 Ford Windstar
  By Nocdar - September 2 - 2:00 am

  Lots of recalls. The door ajar alarm switches are continually a problem, which render the alarm system useless. The whole front end is under- engineered. Im running on my fourth set of tierod ends. The front torsion bar broke in half about 3 years ago. Last year, the left front coil spring broke on the highway taking out the tire and brake line. This vehicle gets regular highway usage, not bumpy backroads. Ive kept the vehicle this long because when there is rain or snow on the ground, it handles very good for what it is. Ground clearance to go through snow or disperse water and slush is great.

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  Three Years Too Long - 1993 Ford Taurus
  By Joe R F - September 2 - 2:00 am

  Had numerous repairs under waranty. As car was new, I thought I had a real lemon but repairs ceased as warranty expired. Have car nearly 10 years and variety of major repairs were needed: Xmission (after 103K miles), Alternator, Air Con, Cooling System, and most recently, Brakes needed complete overhaul. Lots of minor repairs in last two years. Overall, car served me well with 173K miles and three kids growing up around it.

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  Great Truck - 1997 Ford Ranger
  By hobbs - September 2 - 2:00 am

  I love driving this truck. Its ride is more like a car than a truck. It starts with only 2 or 3 turns of starter...every time...I like its looks, willow green with matching interior..Also has a fiberglass tonneau cover which makes it look sharp..Everything works, even all light bulbs...Its a manual shift, which makes it fun to drive....It has never let me down and its got 192000 miles on the odometer.

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  Windevil Blue Convetible - 2007 Ford Mustang
  By Fustoni - September 2 - 1:26 am

  I really am satisfied with my new car. It drives and handles like a much more expensive car. Love the Windevil Blue and Parchment color.