Ford Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.25/5 Average
30,482 Total Reviews
Make Overview:

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:

Showing 27151 through 27160 of 30,482.00
  • IT DOESNT GET ANY BETTER THAN THIS - 2002 Ford Excursion
    By -

    The best vehicle Ive owned!!! I have owned the competition and my Excursion has far exceeded all my expectations. The Powerstroke is highly recommended and the resulting fuel economy is well worth the extra money for the engine (15.5/18.0 MPG Im a leadfoot).

  • Great SUV - 2002 Ford Excursion
    By -

    This Excursion is a great SUV. Runs very good, rides great, and tows anything you have. It does get poorer mileage, but not that bad. A Suburban doesnt come close with its cheap, rattling interior and poor overall quality.

  • Bearings shot at 30,000 miles - 2000 Ford Ranger
    By -

    I expected better quality from my Ranger. My front bearings started grinding around 23,000 miles and now I have to replace them at 30,000.

  • 124,000 miles/4cyc. - 1996 Ford Contour
    By -

    Only repairs have been wiring harness, coil, o2 sensors and R front power window motor replacement.

  • 94 Ranger 4x4 - 1994 Ford Ranger
    By -

    This has been the best all around vehicle I have ever owned. It had 68K on the odometer when I bought it, and didnt look really well maintained. It now has 192K and has been nearly flawless. It has the 4.0 V6, 327 gears, and 5-speed tranny its good for 18 mpg around town and up to 25 mpg on the highway. Runs strong at 75+ on the interstate. I highly recommend it to anyone.

  • 03 Sport Trac - 2005 Ford Explorer Sport Trac
    By -

    The only flaw I have found is the rigid and light rear end causes some stability issues. Often at normal road speeds, hitting bumps when going any direction but straight can cause the rear to skip a little, not a fun feeling. I would pass on the power seats if you want to be able to store anything under them, and the rear seats dont fold down flat if you store anything of size under them. Other than that, a wonderful truck.

  • 1999 P71 Crown Vic - 1999 Ford Crown Victoria
    By -

    I purchased my Crown Vic early in 2008. I enjoy the ride and handling is very good. This is a nice looking car with just enough style mixed with plenty of performance. It seems that every where I go people are always looking over. Its appearance is striking. This car has plenty of room inside and the truck is spacious. Drivers seat should be more supportive especially when driving aggressively. When I purchased Vic it had the very high rated tires. The ride was very stiff so I immediately installed new 225x60 Goodyear touring type tires, the ride improved tremendously. Even though they are not rated the performance is virtually the same, still handles very good.

  • Why the Ford Contour is best for me... - 1996 Ford Contour
    By -

    The Ford Contour had 40,000 miles on it when i purchased it. I have 3 kids, and they also loved our car. We do much running around because of the fact i am a mother of 3. All of them are in to sports. All three of them have practice on weekends and after school. So many miles have been put to the car. And is Still running just as strong and looks great and sounds great.

  • Glad I didnt buy a Suburban - 1999 Ford Expedition
    By -

    After 2.5 years and 52,000 miles with my Expedition, I have no regrets. Love the looks of the Eddie Bauer as well as the standard features. This vehicle seems to be just the right size - a little smaller than a Suburban (easier to park), a little bigger than a Tahoe/Yukon (more cargo/passenger space). It has more second seat leg room than the Suburban. Its a great tow vehicle with more than adequate power. I wish a power passenger seat was available. Road noise on concrete pavement is a bit intrusive as the original equipment Goodyear RTS tires wear down. The ride is a bit jiggly (it has the 4-corner leveling system), but the handling is very car-like.

  • 1994 Ford Taurus - 1994 Ford Taurus
    By -

    Horrible dealership. The car was beat up and no maintenance actually done to the car. A REAL LEMON. We were ripped off.

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