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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  Let me count the ways - 2013 Ford Fusion
  By Gene - February 28 - 3:50 pm

  Theres a lot good about the Fusion, but there are several things that have me saying, "I should have bought a Chevy". Economy, handling, appearance, all great. However, FordSynch is the dumbest piece of engineering Ive ever seen. It is redundant, confusing, and down right dangerous having to take your eyes off the road to keep tapping on that screen. Old fashion dials and sliders would be far superior. Engine noise: BAD. Wind noise: BAD. Seats: UNCOMFORTABLE (passenger seat vertical adjustment is an "option". You feel like youre sitting in a hole without it. Climate controls: HORRIBLE. (even the dealer had to tap the screen three times just to get vent air). To sum it up, I made a mistake.

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  Former GM Guy - 2001 Ford F-150
  By Dan Palmer - February 28 - 10:00 am

  Ive had the vehicle for 2 years know, other than a sensor that had to be replaced, the vehicle has been excellent. Ive had Chevy trucks in the past and even got to drive a new 2003 Chevy, for a couple days, when they fixed my sensor...all I can say is anybody who drives a Chevy has definitely not driven a Ford lately. The difference between ride, handling and comfort is very obvious. The Fords road manners give a feel of control and stability. As far as the interior, the Fords are very comfortable with all the controls right where you want them.The 2003 Chevy (2 years newer than my Ford), looked ugly in comparison.Chevy is definitely behind the times.

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  HOG Wild - 2001 Ford F-150
  By Harley Fan - February 28 - 10:00 am

  Everything I expected and more. The lowered supspension provides an excellent ride yet still has decent hauling capacity. The truck is fun to drive and has all of the creature feature found in upsacle sedans. I am very impressed with the quality of construction, fit and finish. 28 months and no problems. This is one vehicle I plan to keep for a long time.

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  XChev, Mistake or Not? - 2003 Ford F-150
  By Gruff - February 28 - 10:00 am

  I have had Chevys since 1967 used to be a Ford man. Chevy wouldnt give me a good trade in so I went to Ford. I like my new truck but have found somethings wrong. Work men ship is a little bad. Seat belt put installed backward, Pedal adjustment missing, Read door out of adjustment, gap on dash board on drivers side and no tinted windshield. . All in all I like the truck, just have to get used to driving a Ford.

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  my king ranch - 2003 Ford F-150
  By gunman8 - February 28 - 10:00 am

  this king ranch has been very good to me. nothing has gone wrong with it. all you have to do to this truch is change the oil and wash the bugs off.

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  piece of crap - 2000 Ford Focus
  By sup - February 28 - 10:00 am

  Almost 25k miles. 3 times for repairs. Engine light comes on if I dont click the gas cap "10 times" according to the dealer. Very thin windshield. Cracked 3 feet across while passing a truck hauling sand on the freeway. Auto transmission started to squeek and slip. Had to be replaced. Truely a disposable car.

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  My Escape - 2003 Ford Escape
  By cjred - February 28 - 10:00 am

  I love driving this vehicle, its fun. Its not to big & not too small and drives like a car.

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  Love my Escape Limited!! - 2004 Ford Escape
  By Lisa C. - February 28 - 10:00 am

  I love my Escape Limited. It is real fun to drive and i really like the leather interior and the mach 6 stereo system sounds great. I love the moon roof.Just went on a road trip and got excellent mileage. I would definitely recomend a Escape Limited!!

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  Level II in VA - 2003 Ford Ranger
  By ADIRUBBIO - February 28 - 10:00 am

  Awesome for any outdoor activity known to man. Aftermarket accsessories easier to find and cheaper than that of import trucks. The motor is very strong for a V-6. Tranny is smooth. Revs at about 2700 rpm at 75 mph. Great for gas mileage concerns. Gas mileage is about 250 miles a tank for about $18.00 bucks. That is average DC area traffic. Highway gets around 275-285 a tank.

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  explorer xls - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By hew III - February 28 - 10:00 am

  not bad. a wider-track and more cargo room would be better.