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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  A good choice with one exception.... - 2009 Ford Focus
  By Gary G. - June 17 - 4:51 pm

  With only 400 miles on it so far, Im very impressed with my new Focus in all respects except one (the tires...see below). Its roomy despite being small, performs well (very peppy), is comfortable and quiet (except for the tire noise), gets excellent gas mileage (30 mpg city vs the 24 mpg EPA estimate) and has lots of standard bells & whistles. I opted for a fully loaded (with automatic) model, and for the small incremental difference in cost (only $2,000 or so) you get a whole lot more. There are some great incentives ($3,000 in rebates) on this car right now too, which makes it even more appealing.

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  Price / safety - 2009 Ford Flex
  By John - June 17 - 3:18 pm

  We needed a car for 3 kids and two adults. I did a lot of reading into crash tests -- not just the stars ratings, but the detailed crash test reports. 1. This is about the safest vehicle on the market. Dont overlook that its heavy -- crash tests are about running into a car your size. Running into a heavier car is like a higher speed collision (to the lighter car). 2. Some complaints around the web are about MPG. Theres no alternative noticeably better in this weight class/size. Most are worse. 3. Another con often mentioned is price. Flexes are quite reasonable right now. Ours was 22% below MSRP (after 3K rebate), and just under 6% below invoice, with virtually no haggling.

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  Torch Red Mach 1 - 2003 Ford Mustang
  By tm420 - June 17 - 10:54 am

  Purchased the car over a year ago and I love every minute that I get to drive it. The car has 38000 miles, but I have only put on about 2000 since I bought it. I love the shaker hood scoop, and it still turns a lot of heads for a mustang. Dont really see too many of these where I live. Performance is outstanding (Low 5 sec. to 60 mph). Bought the car with a few modifications and it just flies. Heard these engines were very reliable, and havent had any problems yet. Engines were rated at 305 hp, but I think its more like 320. Looking forward to keeping this one for a long time.

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  Beauty and a BEAST - 2005 Ford Excursion
  By Del - June 17 - 10:13 am

  We purchased a pair (2) 2005 Ford Excursion Limiteds with the 6.0L turbo diesel. We traded in a pair (2) of Volvos. With three (3) growing kids and lots of gear, the Volvos just could not carry the loads without going to roof racks. The diesel Excursion is a treat. So much power, so much room, so much safety. selected againt Chevy/ GMC, Caddy because we love Ford diesels since they run much stronger and longer. Plus, those are all smaller interiors. I wish Ford would revisit making the Excursion. We bought two (2) of the 2005 model with the Limited package. We will replace the engines if they ever need it, with the new updated Powerstroke found in the 2009 Super Duty pick-ups.

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  Great Car - 1998 Ford Explorer
  By Ellen - June 17 - 9:46 am

  I bought this car last year, It had a bad AC when I bought it & I knew this. It only cost me $500 to repair & I have had no problems since. It has gotten me everywhere I go & the AC blows really cold now. I really like all the features it has. I just wish it had a better MPG. Only other problem is the keyless entry sometimes works & sometimes doesnt. Great Car!

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  Buy A FORD - 1993 Ford Tempo
  By M. Horsey - June 17 - 8:59 am

  Ford Tempo for us was an excellent choice. Still in wonderful condition, not a spec of rust. Rarely repaired - (no majors!)oil/filter every 3 months/ new brakes/ tires, that is basically it. Drives and runs like a gem! We also currently, own (bought new) a 2000 FORD TAURUS wagon, again more than pleased. We have had FORDs - always bought new, since 1966.

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  One fast Ford - 2008 Ford Shelby GT500
  By john schubin - June 17 - 5:03 am

  As an old 60s muscle car driver this Shelby GT500 has what it takes to earn that title of a real muscle car with all all the perks. Just a real fun car to drive. When you turn this car on it returns the favor!

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  Comfort energy in HOV - 2017 Ford Fusion Energi
  By Herb witte - June 17 - 1:38 am

  Loaded with options will trade in at a value and sell best.

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  Great deal for the money - 2009 Ford Fusion
  By triple john - June 16 - 11:06 pm

  Just purchased a 09 4 cyl Fusion for 18K...I know the 4 cyl is not the fastest, but not bad for a four...especially with the 5 speed automatic. I just drove drove 500 miles home and averaged 32 mpg @ 70 mph, This engine not even broken in yet, so mileage should improve a bit. The car is very quite on the highway and quite comfortable. My last car was a Cadillac, so I appreciate quality. This car was loaded with the sun & sync package, black leaather interior with blue suede inserts, ambient lighting, travel computer with compass sport package with 18" rims, cruise, 8 speaker premium sound system with 6 cd changer, satelite radio with steering wheel controls, power seats, rear spoiler.

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  You will not be sorry. - 2005 Ford Mustang
  By steve craft - June 16 - 4:42 pm

  A more gorgeous, fun to drive, fun to look at, no troubles in sight car you couldnt find. In a world of cars that look like tylenol capsules & are a big bore in general, you have a REAL car: the ford mustang! With its big heavy- set eyebrows and its throaty (but not obnoxious) growl. Handles a dry turn with determination, LOVES the road in terms of wanting a good run...it will ask to pull toward 80 rather than cantering at 65. Cars & especially trucks politely get out of the way to let the glory of this American Original shine, as it gracefully owns the road, weaving or not weaving, gaining or not gaining as the mood fits. I have had it 3 years. Bottom line: If I could buy 3, I would!