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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  Love this truck. - 2009 Ford F-150
  By Dominic - July 18 - 9:14 am

  Was ready to buy a Toyota Tacoma when my wife said --- you cant buy a foreign truck. I immediately went to the Chevy dealership and then for some reason decided to stop buy a Ford one after that. Although I have always thought Chevy has a more classic and attractive body style, I was blown away by the interior of the Ford. Simply put, an outstanding and elegant design. It was a tough choice but was able to get a better price on the Ford and so went with it. So far, I love the truck. Has a less powerful feel than the Chevy even through I got the 5.4L but it is still more than adequate for my needs. I have to thank my wife for pushing me to American - better product than Toyota.

• 

  luv my ford - 2007 Ford Fusion
  By chuck - July 18 - 8:23 am

  wife and I both luv our fusion. Economy is decent, but we both like the the pedal on the right. It works great. Ride, handling, comfort all great. Would put this against any car priced close. Prospective buyers, try this one.

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  Ford Hybrid, Go Green! - 2005 Ford Escape
  By David Yates - July 18 - 3:46 am

  With gas prices continually going up, it was time to re-think fuel economy. Although I would probably never have considered the Ford Escape (I was looking at minivans) the thought of a Hybrid SUV caught my attention. The Escape has a pleasing body line and the interior is adequate for a family of 5. While I may not be the tree hugging type, it is nice to drive past the local gas stations without turning in. If you are looking for quiet, this is the car for you. No engine noise, no road noise and handling which is very responsive.

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  I have wanted a Mustang for 40 years. - 2006 Ford Mustang
  By Don Watson - July 18 - 3:29 am

  I bought my car from an auction I work at ( Adesa Sacramento ) and I love it!! It is a v6 with an air aid cold air injector, throttle body spacer and a Flowmaster exhaust. The previous owner also added blacked out 17 inch factory rims. This beast will smoke any G6 or v6 camaro out there.... If you can buy a base model and do the bolt on stuff yourself do it!!!!

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  what a GREAT CAR!!! - 2008 Ford Explorer
  By tom galvin - July 17 - 7:41 pm

  This car has been great from day one no problems very comfortable great power, turning radius, design and everything!! ive only owned fords in the past and have had an explorer before but this blows all of them out of the water!!!

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  Downsizing worked out! - 2008 Ford Ranger
  By Norton - July 17 - 6:10 pm

  I sold my 2003 Dodge Ram Quad Cab 4 X 4 with Hemi & ordered my Ranger XLT 4 Banger with auto & all options. In short, I love this truck. Average 24 MPG, fun to drive and think Ford should put time & effort into the Rangers future! I am a happy Ford Customer!

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  Best Truck Ever - 2009 Ford F-150
  By cl - July 17 - 5:33 pm

  Its a looker! After 1500 miles, we think its the best truck going. We like the style and features of our Lariat. Its capable and was built in America without help from a government handout.

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  My Lil car - 1993 Ford Festiva
  By Kyle - July 17 - 3:27 pm

  This has been my most reliable car EVER- bought in96 for $3,900-was a impulse buy (bought within hours of looking at) Initially thought I overpaid - but 13 yrs and at 185,000 miles - U think I got a steal on it I dont get mileage others might(is a 5 speed) get 35-38 mpg (with wind pushing me have got 45-48) tho mpg is with usually with car loaded up and 75 mph Gone is rear seat - and many times passenger seat - fit 8 ft boards in it with front seat gone- so cargo room is awesome (use it like was a truck) great ground clearance for N Dakota winters Until real recently could go 5,000- 6,000 miles(oil change to oil change) without adding any oil in between alot of long trips 800mile

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  Longevity! - 2001 Ford Mustang
  By Owner2001 - July 17 - 3:05 pm

  I am the original owner of my 01 convertible and I am extremely impressed with the build quality. Other than scheduled fluid changes I have not had a single issue. The car starts everytime, it is fun to drive and for what it is (an entry level sports car) I am a very satisfied customer. Having owned a 95 coupe this car is superior in every way. I have modified the car with dual exhaust /w GT bumper, hood & side scoops, a fibreglass front bumper, tires & rims, welded sub-frame connectors, strut tower brace, pedal kit, and new air intake.

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  Best car I ever owned - 2007 Ford Fusion
  By Fuad - July 17 - 11:30 am

  I have owned this car for 2 years now. I must say this is the best car I have owned so far. Very durable car, reliability has been top notch.You wouldnt believe the punishment it took over the last two Canadian winters and over the pothole infested roads.I have the 5speed and trust me it makes a big difference compared to the automatic.The engine is pepy but you will notice significant power loss on very hot days.Shifter is very smooth. The suspension is one the things that I like most about this car,it handles beautifully.Trunk is big and the backseat is nice and roomy.The stereo is pretty good.I highly recommend this car to anyone looking for a frugal & very well thought through car.