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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  Great Package - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By cowbay - January 5 - 2:00 am

  Good all around vehicle. Around town mileage could be better about 14 MPG. But highway is respectable I get 22-23 MPG at around 70-75 MPH

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  Beautiful car! - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By Gardenangels - January 5 - 1:06 am

  Plenty of power in this red beauty. Ive been through all kinds of weather conditions and the car is safe and reliable. Lots of looks and compliments for this car.

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  2001 5 speed - 2001 Ford Explorer Sport Trac
  By Phil T - January 4 - 10:56 pm

  Overall a very dependable truck. Agree with postings on brakes going in short order. Also had a clutch slave cylinder go bad (under extended warranty). Other than that, no problems. Has never left me stranded. Exterior design still looks good after 4 years. Balance between crew cab and pickup capacity is perfect. Interior design on base model is very plain (yet functional), but what can you expect in a base model. Pickup bed is great for the hardware store/dump runs, but lacking when you go to get any 4x8s. Yes, this is a compromise, but an acceptable one when compared to cost of a crew cab full size pickup.

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  LOVE IT!!! - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By jmm - January 4 - 5:03 pm

  i just bought a 2009 ford fusion and i have already fell in love with it!! its such a great car. i always thoguht ford wasnt that great but once i sat in one and drove it i just knew i had to have the car. it get decent gas milage. i would tell everyone to get this car. the outside looks sweet and the inside has a lot of space and is very confortable. A+++++ for sure.

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  First 1000 Miles - 2016 Ford Edge
  By P. Wolcott - January 4 - 12:54 pm

  I purposely shopped for a car without the $3000 added navigation. I use the WAZE app for free and it is more useful. This car is a rocket ship, very responsive, quiet and the moon roof is huge. First 1000 miles loving it...

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  Expectation shortfall - 2008 Ford Shelby GT500
  By Hawk - January 3 - 12:06 pm

  I purchased the car about two months ago. I didnt test drive it prior to purchase and I will never make that mistake again. I have owned most popular sport cars in the last decade from a Z01 Corvette to a Porsche Boxster and everthing in between and this car has been the biggest disappointment. The NAV quit working after a week. The shifter buzzes in neutral with the cluth out and the whole car shutters when you shift into first gear and the tranny is hot. Took to the dealership and they produced a factory notice saying this is "normal" on some lucky owners cars. Not worth the money. Sad it didnt live up to the legend. Wish I still had my Mustang GT.

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  Darn Good Value! - 2002 Ford Taurus
  By Jack_Izer - January 3 - 10:00 am

  This is probably one of the best deals out there right now. We took advantage of the $2500 rebate rather than the 0% offer. Clean styling, comfortable seating for 5 (could squeeze 6 in a pinch). Got it for 16,700 - after rebates & before taxes/doc. The LX is the base model, but it comes with power windows/locks & even a passive security system. All this plus a 5 star crash rating. Great car for the money!

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  Good for me - 2003 Ford Explorer Sport Trac
  By steelemag - January 3 - 10:00 am

  Ive had my Sport Trac since May of this year and have about 3500 miles to date including an 18 hour drive. This is my first brand new vehicle and I have to say I have been extremely pleased. For someone who necessitates versatility, this is the vehicle for you. The amenities on this truck are great i.e. power rear slide, power sunroof, 6cd in dash stereo, rear seat climate control, leather interior, etc..Im not an all frills kind of gal, but its nice to have hauling ability plus luxery. As the old cliche goes, So far, So good.

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  Cs Stang - 2000 Ford Mustang
  By StangOwnerat16 - January 3 - 10:00 am

  Trust me everyone, if you have the chance I strongly suggest you get you hands on one.

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  2012 Ford Focus DO NOT BUY - 2012 Ford Focus
  By westgadawg - January 3 - 1:59 am

  6000 Miles. The car has been in the shop a total of 26 days. The tranny was rebuilt 2 times on the first trip in to service before it was replaced on the trip in. The software for the entire car has been reflashed on both trips to the service dept. The car wont idle at low speeds and the the car will shut down for no reason. This car is a safety hazard and will eventually get someone killed. It is a shame because the car could have been a great asset to Ford instead Ford puts out a piece of crap and refuses to admit they have a problem with this car. Save yourself a headache. DO NOT BUY THIS CAR.