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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  after a year of ownership... - 2002 Ford Focus
  By SVTADAM - January 10 - 10:00 am

  Very fun daily commuter. Attacks the twisties with willful abandon. For a naturally aspirated motor the power is adequate. Have had numerous issues with warrantee items...dual stage intake, exaust rattles, interior leak, mainly integrity issues, and lots of check engine lights. Meticulous owners may expect to visit dealers more often than they would like. Very aftermarket friendly for performance/apperance upgrades.

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  The best never rest - 2004 Ford F-150
  By CNASH 9 - January 10 - 10:00 am

  After 3 years in a noisy and under powered Toyota Turdra, I was anxious to get back to a real truck. I was very pleased and impressed from the first test drive. The ride quality is as good or better than most "Luxury" cars. It handles the road very well and the steering feedback gives the driver an increased level of confidence in all types of road and weather conditions. If you are considering buying a truck, and you dont drive a new F-150, you have missed an opportunity to own not just the best truck on the planet, but one of the finest vehicles built today PERIOD.

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  best truck ever - 2004 Ford F-150
  By zenparis - January 10 - 10:00 am

  after having owned only trucks for the last 25 years,this new ford blows everything away.have been off road and up to maine with it.i can drive all day and still love it.been waiting for a reason to get out of my 98 f-150 and the wait was worth it.ford will have a huge hit with truck lovers ,the only thing i didnt like was paying close to list for it.

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  THIS THING IS GREAT!!!!!!!!! :) :) - 2004 Ford Excursion
  By mjc - January 10 - 10:00 am

  Buy one now before they are gone!! Its waaaaaayyyyy better than a crummy old Burb!!!!!!! FORD TRUCK TOUGH!

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  Simply Amazing - 2004 Ford Excursion
  By Rothy - January 10 - 10:00 am

  Such an amazing truck its too bad they are discontinuing the excursion.

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  Best of 2003 - 2003 Ford Expedition
  By raw keyon - January 10 - 10:00 am

  When I first saw this suv , I knew I would love this car. Everything is great on this car. I wouldnt trade it for the world!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

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  Nice ride - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By jpb - January 10 - 10:00 am

  Have had vehicle for 1½ years now. Enjoy driving it and use it for work. Starter went out at 39,000 mi and was out of warranty, however Ford did assist in replacement costs. 4.0L V-6 not too peppy, but performs OK. Rear air vents are too far back for 2nd row seat (sunroof). Brakes & rotors had to be replaced at 53,000 mi. Wish I had bought used instead of new, paid $31,000, within 6 months KBB value was $26,000. 5 spd O/D transmission shifts often.

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  I love it - 2003 Ford Focus
  By Livin in Wahiawa - January 10 - 10:00 am

  Taking advantage of good incentives (including the Costco Program), my wife and I purchased a new 2003 Focus Wagon. She had test driven an Ion, a Civic, and an Echo (and of course, her old Escort), and loved the ride, power, handling, lines, comforts, space and overall style of her new car. Ive driven it a bit, and I confess I like it better than my 98 Saturn SL2.

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  outstanding value! - 2003 Ford Focus
  By davgrlck - January 10 - 10:00 am

  great pickup. I have the 2.3 litre pzev engine with 145 horse power and near zero emissions to polute the air. Huge interior. More room than some midsize cars i tested for thousands less. Biggest trunk space in class and fold completely flat rear seats. Possibly the wisest money spent for any car class.

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  I love the Car - 2003 Ford Focus
  By sugawoman - January 10 - 10:00 am

  I honestly love the car. It rides great and is so much fun!