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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  My New Ranger - 2004 Ford Ranger
  By Fordman - January 11 - 2:00 am

  The truck is beautiful, comfortable, and most important powerful. It meets my needs and expectations for the truck its size and Im glad I went with no other.

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  Overall Great Car - 2002 Ford Taurus
  By RobertA - January 10 - 10:00 am

  This car replaced a 2000 SE with 3.04V. I opted for the same engine but also wanted options. Got everything but engine block heater and wood trim (South Louisiana, who needs it). Tighter and seemingly more solid than my old Taurus, however, performance is down. I could smoke a Crown Vic in my old car, but this one is not as quick off the line or accelerating to pass. This is due to CAFE standards, so I guess Im out of luck. Otherwise, a great car. Also, rear discs standard on Wagon, not available on sedan.

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  AF Blue - 2000 Ford Mustang
  By Air Force Blue - January 10 - 10:00 am

  Have had minor electrical problem with ignition (freak burn through of wire wouldnt let car start all the time). Made enough contact to start car most of time. It took 7 visits to the dealership to find and fix. We did stick with it.

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  Great car for the money - 2002 Ford Mustang
  By Left Lane - January 10 - 10:00 am

  2002 Mustang GT Coupe

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  An American Legand Lives! - 2002 Ford Mustang
  By Mr. Mustang - January 10 - 10:00 am

  In the past I have had and driven my share of cars and I can tell you that my Mustang GT is by far my favorite. My other friends with their Hondas, Acuras, and Toyotas only wish they could keep up. Plus with over 300 pounds of torque, you can burn the tires until the cows come home. You cant beat American Muscle.

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  Always in the Shop - 2000 Ford Focus
  By Redridinghood - January 10 - 10:00 am

  The Focus is a piece of JUNK! Car has been into dealership 19 times 15 of then have been recalls or warranty purposes. Have had 9 recalls already! Car has 59,140km on it. Rear axle assembly has been done, both front stablizer links replaced, brake calipers froze, car shook at high speeds. Springs were not properly in control arms, caused clunk. Clutch spring done twice. Car stalls occasionally, still not fixed. Car RPMs fluctuate when stopped causing car to shake at stops. Two wheel covers replaced, wiper arms had to be tightened. Rear wheel bearings and seals replaced. The list goes on and on. Stay away from the focus it is nothing but hassles.

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  Not bad - 2003 Ford Expedition
  By heaven4 - January 10 - 10:00 am

  I am somewhat impressed with my new EB expedition, but I am guessing I should have went with the Denali. No big problems so far just the overall ride is way off, truck is big and feels so in the ride area.

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  Ford Explorer - 1996 Ford Explorer
  By jpjljr77 - January 10 - 10:00 am

  Overall the vechile has been great.

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  First time buyer - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By Burns4u - January 10 - 10:00 am

  I like the amount of space the option of the 3 row seat and the comfort of the automobile in general. I like the new look ie. wider frame. With the wider frame I feel there is less of a chance of roll over. I have test drove Exolorers before and I think the 2002 Explorer rides better than the older models. When purchasing the Explorer I would not think that one would expect the SUV to ride like a car. The Explorer is not made like a car nor is it made to be a car. The Explorer is a 4x4 automobile. If you want a vehicle that rides like a car then buy a car. I give the Explorer a Thumbs UP!!

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  Two years in a windstar - 2000 Ford Windstar
  By Steven Gross - January 10 - 10:00 am

  I find the windstar to very reliable and comfortable van. It handles all our needs (todays staton wagon). It is versitale to move large objects and still keep them secure.