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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  Good for an SUV - 1994 Ford Explorer
  By jillschmill - March 19 - 2:00 am

  Very comfortable - lots of space inside. Great for road trips. Of course, not great fuel-economy, but no SUV does well in that category.

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  no more fords - 1995 Ford Explorer
  By frustratedfordowner - March 19 - 2:00 am

  I have a 95 "Exploder", yes an exploder. It only has 94,000 miles on the OD and Ive had to replace the transmission twice on it. The first time was at 37,000 miles which was 1,000 miles past warranty and Ford only picked up half of the replacement. The second time the transmission guys are telling me that the solenoids werent replaced when the transmission was changed and most likely contributed to the failure this second time. Never again will I purchase from this company because its true Ford stands for FIX OR REPAIR DAILY.

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  Not Idiot Proof But a Ton of Fun - 1995 Ford Contour
  By dlf - March 19 - 2:00 am

  Ive got about 60,000 miles on the car and have only had one problem--inlet manifold runner control had to be replaced for about $250. One replacement of tires and brake pads. Bought a dealer demo car (5000 miles) for cheap. I love the performance of the V6 engine and the handling--it feels like a European car. I think people who hate the Contour either havent gotten the SE model or are in need of an idiot-proof car.

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  Cant wait for the 2003 model! - 1997 Ford Expedition
  By cobbed,man - March 19 - 2:00 am

  This has been a good family vehicle.

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  Home run for ford - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By shawn barnes - March 18 - 10:30 pm

  I fell in love with exterior styling then i drove one and decided that this would definitely be ny next vehicle.It has more than enough power and phenomenal gas mileage (39.5 mpg) mostly around town with a short commute to work each day. I have recommended this car to many of my friends who are looking for a new car.

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  I JUST LOVE IT - 2002 Ford Excursion
  By Michelle - March 18 - 4:16 pm

  THE EXCURSION IS BY FAR THE BEST SUV OUT THERE NO MATTER WHAT ANYONE SAYS. YOU GET THE SPORTY LOOK, LUXURY, TOWING, ROOMINESS AND CARGO SPACE ALL IN ONE SUV. I USE IT FOR MY DAYCARE, BUT IT STILL HAS ALL THE STYLE FOR A NIGHT ON THE TOWN.

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  A superior wagon for an economy car. - 1995 Ford Escort
  By pj - March 18 - 3:01 pm

  A smart choice.Plenty of room in the back for transporting furniture(we easily fit a 5x40"x20" wardrobe in the back with the seats folded down).Thats alot of space for a small car.Visibility is excellent, easy to park in small spaces,and in five years,have only had it in the shop 3 times for minor repairs.The a/c cranks and still gives great gas mileage.It is very comfortable to drive and the front driver seat has great lower back support,a comfort for long rides.Weve transported rugs,mattresses,plywood and many other items you would normally need a pickup for.No regrets with this car.

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  Wind96 - 1996 Ford Windstar
  By woodfyr - March 18 - 12:02 pm

  This has been an excellent road car. Long trips are a norm (+300 miles). A pleasure to drive, excellent handling with plenty of power on hills and for passing. Great tow vehicle for 1000 lb. camper trailer. Stable under all conditions. 22 mpg (16 mpg with trailer).

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  Run! Run! Run! - 1996 Ford Windstar
  By VeryVeryUnhappy - March 18 - 11:52 am

  Blown head gasket at 60K and now Trans slipping bad at 115K. I cant affort to own this van.

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  Not just for taxi cabs and police cars! - 2003 Ford Crown Victoria
  By Love The Vic - March 18 - 8:33 am

  This is far and away the best ride Ive ever owned. The interior is very roomy and quiet. The leather seats are so comfortable, especially on long road trips. It is amazing nimble for such a large car and I love the power under the hood. Surprisingly good gas mileage for an 8 cylinder engine makes it an excellent commute car.