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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  okay if youre broke - 1993 Ford Tempo
  By chantelle - March 22 - 2:00 am

  not exactly the safest, most reliable or fun to drive car. expect to replace a lot of parts, and dont ever rear end someone faster than 10 mph because your whole bumper will shatter and fall off.

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  Jury Still Out - 2002 Ford Windstar
  By Anonymous Bruce - March 22 - 2:00 am

  Purchased just prior to new family addition. No journeys yet to see how it handles luggage load. For our around town its been fine. Gas mileage marginal, at best, around town. Missing thumb release button to disengage parking brake we realized the first time we got away from the dealer and used the parking brake. Stranded slightly temporarily--the dealer fixed in good time. Plan on updating review after more comprehensive use. We particularly enjoy the adjustable foot pedals and power side rear doors.

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  My T-Bird - 1997 Ford Thunderbird
  By Bradley Gilliam - March 22 - 2:00 am

  I have had my car for a couple of years now and it has been really cool. It is great because it is a fast car but the insurance prices are still reasonable. It is a lazer red ninety-seven T-bird. Right now it has 72000 miles on it and drives just like it if it were brand new.

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  2006 mustang fun - 2006 Ford Mustang
  By bob drury - March 21 - 7:06 pm

  while i do not drive my mustang far, when i do dirve it, it gets stares and it is exciting to get on the gas.

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  Classic American Pony - 2016 Ford Mustang
  By Mark Yurick - March 21 - 3:11 pm

  Love the car. The 6 cylinder is plenty powerful, car handles very well, and of course- it is a looker. The interior is a huge step forward from previous models. Not plush- but attractive and functional.

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  my focus - 2005 Ford Focus
  By wltdll2 - March 21 - 10:00 am

  reliable, fair gas mileage, rear carpet is poorly installed. Very goo handling.

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  happy - 2005 Ford Focus
  By jmpscooby - March 21 - 10:00 am

  i love this car and everything about it except there is no where to put your loose change in it.

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  Next car after Ford ZX2 - 2005 Ford Focus
  By handiestman - March 21 - 10:00 am

  Our 2000 year old ZX2 was still good, but I thought now was a good time to get a new car. I think this 2005 is a much better vehicle with a lot more space.There is so much more space and this trunk gives good space. Also, we have a moonroof(sunroof) and it works quite well. We really are enjoying this car!

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  One Fun Focus! - 2005 Ford Focus
  By Maree - March 21 - 10:00 am

  Summing it up in a nutshell. Dont consider the purchase of any other vehicle until you have at least driven a Focus one time. It is one of the most fun and most reliable vehicles at an affordable price on the road today! Happy Driving!

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  Owner of a 2004 Ford Explorer Limited - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By BevHi90210 - March 21 - 10:00 am

  Very enjoyable vehicle to drive, lots of horsepower, love the moonroof, love the fog lights, no problems with the performance