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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  1993 Great Wagon for All Around Use - 1993 Ford Taurus
  By JosephAttila - July 12 - 2:00 am

  I bought this car in 1993, I had no problems. I changed the oil, fixed the brakes. I did the 60,000 mile tune up. My radiator sprung a leak, but I do not believe I changed the antifreeze in the time I owned it, therefore it is my own fault. I only had to change the altenator. This is a great car for carrying everything, especially for going to the airport with those huge suitcases, they fit great and do not need to be lifted over a metal trunk part. I love the fold down back seats. I have brought sheet rock, storm doors, doors, lawn mover, television set, large rugs home in this car. This car is a little work horse.

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  1993 Sedan Reliable and Safe for the Mon - 1993 Ford Taurus
  By ElizabethAnne - July 12 - 2:00 am

  My car was bought with ABS/ Dual air bags. I loved my car, it was a safe car. I had no problems with my car, other than the normal oil change and fixed the brakes. The only cost was when I got my air conditioning fixed and maybe a little more was done than was actually necessary. I had my car for seven years. I sold it when the Taurus got rid of the ugly butterfly shape and got side air bags. I bought my new Taurus for exactly those reasons. The 93 Taurus was comfortable and safe and a pleasure to drive.

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  2011 transit connect - 2011 Ford Transit Connect
  By snohomishheat - July 11 - 11:53 am

  I usually dont bother to write a review on anything but I am so impressed with this vehicle I want to do anything I can to help promote it. I have a small HVAC company, This is the best service truck I have ever drove. It has plenty of power and also when you put extra weight in it you cant even tell. It looks a little different on the outside, but just drive one! It handles wonderfull has plenty of room for all my stuff, has a very short turning radius, and more visibility than anything out there. I absolutley love love love this truck.

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  windstar - 1997 Ford Windstar
  By dlb - July 11 - 2:00 am

  The doors sensors act up every so offend. On our past vacation the door ajar light would come on an the interior lights would stay on. While out of the van the light would just come on so we had to take out the fuse which by the way so work the power windows. When we got home, I was told to spray all door latches with WD40. It seemed to have worked

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  97 Ford Mustang - 1997 Ford Mustang
  By Mike Hubbell - July 11 - 2:00 am

  Overall it is a very good car. I enjoy driving it bacause it handles well and looks great. What it lacks in luxury and comfort it makes up for in fun and flash, but a second cup holder would have been nice. I will say I had to do a few minor repairs. Twice I have had coolant leaks that were pretty major work. Other than that it was just the usual belts and plugs kind of repair. I also recently had to replace an ignition coil. Overall it was a pretty reliable car.

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  Reliable Transportation with no flair - 1992 Ford Taurus
  By MEH - July 11 - 2:00 am

  This car has been everything you would want in reliable transportation. Have 105000 miles and have changed rear struts, starter, tires, front brake pads, brake shoes at rear, one emergency brake cable, cv joints because the boots broke and thats it. Havent even aligned it yet and the tires still wear even.

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  Caveat Emptor - 1995 Ford Taurus
  By qmac2000 - July 11 - 2:00 am

  I,m sure some people drive their Taurus and have no problems, not me. Steering wheel locked @ 30k miles, engine mounts broke @ 36k(Ford would not fix them even though I feel this was not normal wear and tear). Coolant hoses blew while on vacation @ 50k, coil and module failed @60k(close to home fortunately), several of the power window buttons do not function and the windsheild washer pump works occasionally. To its credit the exterior has held up very well and there is no rust yet, although a few trim pieces have come lose and I had to glue them back on.

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  Good Truck - 1999 Ford F-150
  By forduser - July 11 - 2:00 am

  This has been a greaat truck with even alright fule milage. Great ride and even manageable to haul family around in.

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  Taurus X-tra - 2008 Ford Taurus X
  By Mr Leight - July 10 - 9:30 pm

  Just three weeks and 1200 miles into our journey with the 2008 Taurus X. First, this is far better vehicle than last Taurus I drove. This Taurus comes equipped with confident steering and a much improve ride and enough cup holders for three families. Ride and feel are improved, fit and finish is generally very good. The all wheel drive will be welcomed when the weather changes and much to my surprise we averaged almost 25 MPG on a quick road trip, covering 600 miles. First impressions are important and so far we like the Taurus X so much weÂ’ve got to give it an A. So, chalk one up for the blue oval guys, theyÂ’ve made a good first impression with the Taurus X.

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  Totally Satisfied - 2002 Ford Escort
  By JasonAtCSU - July 10 - 2:00 am

  I researched my new car purchase for two months before I made a move. I wanted into a Subaru, but my college kid budget wouldnt let me. I was looking to stay in a sporty 2-door with good mileage. The ZX2 has come through -- cheaper than the comparable Chevy Cavalier and every import (except Hyundai, but we wont go there). Premium package has great sound, comfy seats. Great power on the Interstate, great mileage, just a great car!