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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  Ford Aspire bought new - 1994 Ford Aspire
  By Robo - September 4 - 12:23 pm

  I bought my 1994 Ford Aspire new and have driven it for 15 years now. Had to have a distributor replaced and rear wheel bearings. Other than that, nothing but maintenance. It has been a great car. MPG of over 36 (still). Have 120K miles on it. I want to get it painted for the next 60K. A great go to work car.

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  Love it - 2003 Ford Expedition
  By Mcke - September 4 - 10:00 am

  I am spoiled by my car. I love the new look of the 2003, the a/c seats, the dvd player, and the easy steering. It has more luxuries that I didnt know I needed. :) Very happy. Jenny

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  cobra - 2003 Ford Mustang
  By nonphixion - September 4 - 10:00 am

  the mustang svt cobra r is a hot ride with exelent preformence and im looking to bye more for family and im happy with the speed results it has given me. The horse power is amazing and the comfort is awesome.

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  The Best Sports Car In The World - 2004 Ford Mustang
  By Mustang1972 - September 4 - 10:00 am

  This car has a slick body style that makes you feel like you are driving the sexiest car around. The performace of the car is excellent and I highly recommend anyone to test drive this car before purchasing any other car that is suppose to be compatable with the Mustang.

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  FUN CAR TO DRIVE - 2004 Ford Mustang
  By TITIAN1340 - September 4 - 10:00 am

  THIS CAR IS FAST, FUN, AND A REAL HEAD TURNER. MY STANG IS MAINLY A TOY, AND A SUNNY DAY RUNNER. OTHER THAN THAT IT STAYS IN MY GARAGE. WHICH HAS HEAT AND AC COMFORT. VERY HAPPY WITH THIS VEHICLE.

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  i love mustangs - 2004 Ford Mustang
  By james mettelmann - September 4 - 10:00 am

  this is a fun car to drive i like that it has power although im going to put a few after market parts in soon because i like to drag but with or without the parts this gt is very nice

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  silver mustang - 2004 Ford Mustang
  By katsilva - September 4 - 10:00 am

  when i got the mustanf i was concerned about how safe i would be since i was used to the lincoln towncar. an incident where a man driving a truck with no brakes slammed into the rear of my mustang at a stop light, i saw his vehicle all smashed and mine was fine, minor scratches in rear. i then felt much safer, i still have this car and plan to give it to my son when he gets his lecense in a few months!

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  Nice Package! - 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By Escape Hybrid - September 4 - 1:30 am

  Very comfortable and fun to drive. Lots of space for passengers and gear.

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  Ford has the Edge on this one! - 2009 Ford Edge
  By warmsunSeattle - September 3 - 3:13 pm

  Cash for Clunkers combined with rebates and dealer discount, I could not be anymore happier with my purchase. The ride is quiet, smooth and handles well, practically glides over bumps, potholes & train tracks. Front seats are very comfortable. Lumbar support adds comfort on long trips. Synch makes it a car for the 21st century. Mileage could be better but, hey, at least it doesnt takes premium unleaded gas. The interior is spacious for passengers & cargo. Rear and front passenger seats fold down providing lots of room for trips to the hardware store. Comes with key fob so no more locking my keys in the car.

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  Best Truck Ever Owned - 1996 Ford F-150
  By SemperFi_10 - September 3 - 1:13 pm

  I bought this truck back in May. It had 162,000 miles on it. I have drove this truck all over the place, and occasionally take it mudding with friends, even though I dont have 4WD. It is the most reliable vehicle I have owned yet and it rides and performs in all aspects just like it came off the line that day. Hands down, I couldnt have asked for a better truck for $750!