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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  boogy - 2004 Ford Mustang
  By MixMasterTB - May 31 - 10:00 am

  This vehicle is so fun to drive. I love just going out to the supermarket.

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  The Best - Mach One - 2004 Ford Mustang
  By The Boss is Back - May 31 - 10:00 am

  The best Mustang yet! Everything works perfect and done right. Hats off to Ford again!

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  my dream car - 2004 Ford Mustang
  By anita bryant - May 31 - 10:00 am

  it had been a long time dream of mine to own a mustang. as a teenager thats all i ever wanted. finally at the ripe old age of 29 i got one and i have loved every single moment since.

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  Best By Far for the Price! - 2004 Ford Mustang
  By DuaneLOL - May 31 - 10:00 am

  I own the Mustang GT, 4.6 Liter, 5 speed. Can it compete with the Porsche, BMW, Corvette, Mercedes? YES, in price and fun! It costs only a fraction of what youd pay for these other cars yet it is reliable, fun to drive, easy to look at and FAST!!

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  I love my Mustang - 2004 Ford Mustang
  By Christina Hedrick - May 31 - 10:00 am

  I love my car! I have driven a lot of cars, and this Mustang is my favorite. The Mustang is my dream car, and my Dad surprised me with one! And I love it more than anything in the world. We went to the dealership and I definitely wanted that car! I hadnt ever drove a Mustang before, and I told my Dad I wanted it! I love it!

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  03 cobra - 2004 Ford Mustang
  By terry a miracl;e - May 31 - 10:00 am

  Will Smash a smile all over your face on awinding road . it is corvette medicine.

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  Nice car. - 2004 Ford Mustang
  By Myboxer - May 31 - 10:00 am

  Had problem with started but was under warranty. All the money we pay for this car it needs extras like digital temp to name a few. I have a Toyota 4 Runner and its also brand new and has ALL the toys PLUS more. Ford needs to add the small things that people like.

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  Luv My 1999 Pony - 2004 Ford Mustang
  By beachpny - May 31 - 10:00 am

  I love my 35th Anniversary Ford Mustang. I have never had any problems with my pony. I can not wait for the new 2005 Mustang, I am going to purchase the GT and add to my pony family. If you have any doubts about purchasing this car DONT. The Ford Mustang is an American Icon and will be always an American Muscle Car.

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  Its off tha heeza fo sheeza - 2004 Ford Mustang
  By lalaford - May 31 - 10:00 am

  Fast with Nitrous, nice seats, cramped for a six foot person, beautiful paint and exterior design

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  This car rules!! - 2004 Ford Mustang
  By wbc4life22 - May 31 - 10:00 am

  I love how fast it is off the line, and in the long run.It is a great car, and I love to drive it!