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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  Always Ford Tough - 2004 Ford F-150
  By Red - June 9 - 8:13 am

  I spent a little more money on the Ford instead of other brands out there because in 5 years from now I dont want to be spending any more money. It is an amazing vehicle and always will be.

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  Sweet Mother of GOD - 2003 Ford F-150
  By FFighterStu - June 9 - 2:00 am

  Yeah.....so after driving small 2 door cars since I was 16 (Im only 21 now), I decided on a truck for a few reasons. I like being able to haul anything I want, helping out others, and just being in a big car up above everyone else. Its not listed in the options on this website, but the 2003 also has available the 5.4L V8. This thing rocks, its got all the power you could ever want, and the comfort of the perfect luxury car.

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  A Great Car! - 2003 Ford Mustang
  By Americanflag - June 9 - 2:00 am

  This is the best car I have ever owned. Ford really got it right, they kept the best attributes of the original Mustangs and melded it with many of the benefits of modern technology. This car is fun to drive, great looking, a tribute to American engineering and automotive design. If you want a rear wheel drive muscle car, this is superb car at a very reasonable price.

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  Nice 4 wheel drive SUV - 2003 Ford Expedition
  By JSilman - June 9 - 2:00 am

  Ford has come a long way since the days of the Bronco, which is the last 4 wheel drive I had. This expedition handles extremely well with the rack and pinion steering and is very comfortable.

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  2003 XLT Popular 5.4L - 2003 Ford Expedition
  By jhuben - June 9 - 2:00 am

  Very positive impression so far. Fit and finish are quite good and we have had zero defects. The rack and pinion steering coupled with firm springs translates into precise steering with minimal body lean in turns. Ride is firm but not harsh. We have 5.4L engine - this engine pulls smoothly from low RPM. Not a lot of throttle is needed to pull away from stop signs. The transmission shifts smoothly. The interior is, as expected for a vehicle of this size, very roomy. Lots of pockets & storage. 3rd row seats are comfortable and can hold adults for long trips. Folding 3rd row quite handy.

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  good... until... - 2003 Ford Taurus
  By Chatham Bing - June 9 - 2:00 am

  1997 Taurus Wagon was a decent form of transportation for a while. Little problems were encountered, until we hit 75,000 miles. Then like clockwork... boom- the head gasket blows, and a $2500 engine rebuild cost. On a 5 year old car which had a value of only $3750 trade in...

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  Good Value - 2005 Ford Escape
  By RJ - June 8 - 6:50 pm

  Bought the Escape 7 months ago and no complaints aside from a rattle inside the passenger door panel. Decided on the Escape because it looks much better than similarly priced models. The interior does look cheap but paying $24K for a fully loaded SUV w/ leather you should expect that. Very nice SUV for the price we paid. Please ignore ALL car makers mpg estimates. Getting around 20 mpg mostly highway, but expected that going in.

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  Not a GTO but FUN! - 2002 Ford Crown Victoria
  By rugby01 - June 7 - 10:00 am

  I recently found the perfect Crown Vic LX Sport after a long search. Monochromatic red with all the options. Tan leather interior. This is a great car with many nice features. Seems 2002 had everything going right for this vehicle. My other vehicle is a 1993 Mercury Cougar XR7 with 302 V8.

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  Unleash The Pony - 2005 Ford Mustang
  By LilMissMustang02 - June 7 - 10:00 am

  I have had my Mustang for only a few months now, but I absolutely love it. It gets very good highway miles, and all the attention on the road. Everything is eye-catching, from the sleek interior, to the frame of this strong and sturdy vehicle. My model is a 2002, but it still looks identical to the later models. I cant wait to actually see the all new 2005, which is even better than all the rest. To Ford: Keep up the good work, and keep the next generation of Mustangs alive!!!

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  Mustang - 2005 Ford Mustang
  By Carl Marino - June 7 - 10:00 am

  Its bigger, better, and bader baby!!!