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 Thunderbird Supercoupe 41000Miles - 1993 Ford Thunderbird
  By DigitalChaos - April 3 - 2:00 am

  Recently purchased this car from a private party with 41000 miles. It was garage kept and stored winters up until this year. It is in excellent condition, and everything works as new. Loaded except for leather seats and power moonroof. Supercharger produces full boost, and because 3.8L SC engine does not use aluminum heads like the None SC 3.8, they have not and will not blow. The cars performance & comfort is amazing, & for something this old, it is truly a modern feeling car.

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  Good Investment - 1995 Ford Thunderbird
  By Bev - April 3 - 2:00 am

  I bought my 95 t-bird used for $3000. It had 113k on it then. I travel 42 miles one way to work, 84 total per day. I have a family of 5. It has been dependable and really has the kick when you need it. It handles like a dream. I have put some hard miles on it, and she still does not hesitate. I have more than got my moneys worth out of this car, and will feel like a part of the family is gone when I trade her in. This car was the best investment I had ever made. The only flaw that I found was the seat, if ever moved, was very hard to get back right and would make my back ache a little, but nothing that could not be overlooked by the fun of the drive.

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  Lovin my Bird - 1996 Ford Thunderbird
  By TBird Lover - April 3 - 2:00 am

  I love my Thunderbird. In fact, hubby and I love them so much we have two! Weve had 4 Thunderbirds since 1995 and theyve all been red. I love the snappy performance of the V-8. The gas mileage in town isnt great but on the highway, we consistently get 25-28 mpg (drove a Focus rental car on vacation and only got 29-30 mpg). The one bad thing about my TBird is that its not a "winter" car. Rear-wheel-drive, coupled with the powerful V-8 engine, makes for a disasterous combination in Iowa.

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  "95 ranger xl - 1995 Ford Ranger
  By damon - April 3 - 2:00 am

  realativly good experience. Having problems w/ dome light staying on and from what a hear this is a common problem. Otherwise a fun truck

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  The truth - 1995 Ford Taurus
  By RoadSHO - April 3 - 2:00 am

  Considering purchase price, cost to operate, insurance, reliability, style and performance, its the greatest car Ive ever owned.

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  seems to be a great vehicle - 1999 Ford Expedition
  By cjbseven - April 3 - 2:00 am

  havent had it long but it seems like the best vehicle we could have purchased for the price

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  No one makes a better suv - 2002 Ford Excursion
  By paddy - April 3 - 2:00 am

  THe X-curison is by far the best truck/suv ive ever driven, owned, and had the pleasure of being seen in. the power, towing, luxury are the utmost perfect combo. the chevy suburban has nothing on the excursion, even with that 8.1 liter engine which i do not think runs no where near as strong as the v-10 triton.

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  Great Fusion & Price - 2016 Ford Fusion
  By Chris - April 2 - 8:28 pm

  2016 Fusion SE with tech package and 2.5 Engine. Read a lot of reviews on Fusion before buying. Looked at other cars, Hyundai, kia, Cheverolet and Nissian. Most reviewers said the 2.5 engine was under powered. Most so called pro reviwers have a lead foot. So I asked people who had one and everyone said, they have not had no problem with the 2.5 power. I also compared the 2.5 to my Escape SE with the 1.6 turbo and could only tell very little difference in power. So overall the Fusion SE with 2.5 is a great deal. Still do your research, and remember owners will always be your best source for an accurate reviews. People who do the reviews based upon a rental car, does not know the history of the car and how it has been treated. In summary, We love our Fusion SE and would buy another, if ever needed and would highly reccommened the Fusion with the 2.5 to everyone.

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  Surprisingly fun to drive - 2000 Ford Crown Victoria
  By TS - April 2 - 7:06 pm

  This is a smooth "boulevard" cruiser in the classic sense, with surprising handling and braking capability. Once you become accustomed to the cars obvious size, you will enjoy the confidence this vehicle gives you. It feels safe, planted, comfortable, and powerful. The "ride and handling" package is a must in my opinion.

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  Couldnt be happier with this car! - 1996 Ford Contour
  By bockman - April 2 - 2:00 am

  This car is excellent for students like myself. It offers decent fuel mileage, good comfort, performance and safety. I bought mine in August 01 and it had 194 ks. The first time I drove in it, I couldnt believe how peppy the 4 cylinder can be and how quiet it remains. I also love the smoothness of the 4 speed automatic transmission. Its main appeal is its handling. (Couldnt ask for better)