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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  This Ford Should Be In Your Future! - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By Fullerton - March 30 - 6:20 pm

  If you are shopping for a car in this class, you owe it to yourself to check out Fords new Fusion. This is the best Ford in ages, and a worthy competitor for Toyota and Honda. Power is smooth and responsive, handling terrific, and the cabin is spacious with excellent comfort. 30 MPG on highway, mid to high 20s city. Mine is black with bone leather interior, a striking combination. Many express surprise that it is a Ford, thinking it is something much more expensive. I have 7000 miles on it now, and the only repair has been a burned out turn signal bulb, covered under warranty. I looked at many cars (its a car nuts addiction,) and none impressed me like the Fusion did.

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  Good Vehicle - 1997 Ford Aerostar
  By Adrian68 - March 29 - 4:11 pm

  My van has been a blessing to me as I am disabled and it was given with an electric lift. The only problem is I think Ford was stingy on the gas pedal and wish I could get closer to the pedals. I would also wish that the seat belts were made for shorter persons. Its a little hard getting into the front seat from the back area where I keep my electric wheelchair especially when I broke my left ankle. The back seat is difficult to take out when we need more room. On the whole I am very happy with the van just wish the lift could have been put in the back rather than the side as parking can be a problem. I give it a high rating.

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  2005 Mustang GT - 2005 Ford Mustang
  By Sam - March 29 - 2:56 pm

  This car is an awesome and fun car to drive. Its a real head turner. I got the screaming yellow color with the upgraded interior, and it is really sharp in appearance. And what a performer -it handles turns and curves without a second thought. I love this new Mustang! Very retro, but very new.

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  Great car! - 1997 Ford Escort
  By Ryan - March 29 - 1:35 pm

  We now have almost 178k miles on this little gem. A few minor repairs and few there, plus regular maintenance and WOW. Shes been a good runner for us.

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  Great Family Car! - 2007 Ford Freestyle
  By jbanks - March 29 - 1:30 pm

  I purchased this car used with 5,000 miles in the fall of 2007. It has gone through two Buffalo Winters like a charm. The AWD is awesome in the snow and on wet road conditions. There is plenty of room for a family of six. We load the car often for family get a ways and drives like a champ. This is agreat alternative to minivans. Many adults compliment on the room and comfort of the back seats. The kids have plenty of room to claim their own kingdoms with enough closeness to make alliances and enough distance when diplopmatic relationships are on the brink of all out war! If you are in the market for a great family car, look no further. I would recommend this to any family.

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  Back to Ford Again - 2008 Ford F-150
  By Casper - March 29 - 12:21 pm

  My 2008 F150 Supercrew is a a joy to drive. I owned a 2006 Infiniti G35 and to be honest with you I am glad to have my F150. The seats are excellent and the cabin layout. Would not buy any other truck but a Ford. The Ford looks better than any other truck on the market.

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  2003 Ford ZX2 Deluxe - 2003 Ford Escort
  By Aaron43 - March 29 - 1:16 am

  I love my zx2. Its a great running car. Its comfortable, reliable, and it looks good too.

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  Could ask for more! - 2009 Ford F-150
  By Doug M. - March 29 - 12:25 am

  I purchased my F-150 about 2 and 1/2 months ago. It was a replaemnet for my 08.5 Nissan Titan-which was totaled- it collapsed like a tin can! Bought the Ford instead of getting another Titan and definately made the right choice! It Looks better, better gas mileage, more comfortable and roomy. My family and I have taken numerous trips to see my family out of state in this short time and the family loves it! Average about 20mpg on the trip when I set the cruise at 75 very pleased with that. Just a great buy and great truck. My first ruck was a Ford and have owned a Dakota, Ram, Frontier, Titan , Ranger and will only buy an F-150 from now own! Love it. Over 500 miles a tank! 5500 miles so far..

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  Great family vehicle - 2007 Ford Freestyle
  By jbanks - March 28 - 3:09 pm

  test

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  Former Honda Fan....Love My New Ford!!! - 2009 Ford Focus
  By Marky - March 28 - 2:14 am

  I have been a Honda owner for over 20 years! No problems and nothing bad to say about my rides over the years, but my 1999 CRV was getting a bit tired after 150G of miles and love. But time to move on. My choices are 2009-Mazda 3, Honda Civic, Pontiac Vibe and the Elantra (I saw all at the Detroit Auto Show) They were all great, with wonderful reviews but I wanted to get the best bang for my buck. I ended up checking out the Ford Focus SES Coupe and so glad I did! With Fords incentives and my local dealer working with me, I bought a beautiful car, loaded, thousands below the sticker. Will I miss my Honda? Not Sure , but Oh so happy with my new ride!!