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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  Fix the rear seat - 2011 Ford Taurus
  By Zach - August 16 - 3:09 pm

  All in all this vehicle is very nice. Pleasant interior design, smooth ride, ample passing power on the freeway, good handling, and many other positive attributes. Rear seat space however is disappointing. My passengers complain of having there knees raised and there heads craned. I have also noticed that their legs protrude into the front seats causing large humps into the seat which is very uncomfortable. The trunk is also hard to open without making smudge marks. Besides that the cars great and Fords done a great job.

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  The Ultimate Family Car - 2010 Ford Flex
  By Buspass - August 16 - 7:49 am

  By far the most comfortable car weve ever owned. The look, style, comfort, mileage and accessories are fabulous and far outweigh the poor handling and lack of power.

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  Love the Flex! - 2010 Ford Flex
  By C.M. - August 15 - 9:28 pm

  I have read up on and taken many crossovers and SUVs for test drives. We chose the Flex Ltd. I LOVE it. The only downfall would be that in the 6 passenger, it would be nice to have a center arm rest. Other than that, the performance is great, its super comfortable and I LOVE how the Flex looks. I have much respect for Ford as well i.e. not taking/requiring a bail out. Great vehicle Ford. Keep up the great work.

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  Good Truck - 2003 Ford Expedition
  By kenmandoo - August 15 - 7:53 pm

  Traded in 1999 Expy for the 2003 Expy back about 5 years ago with 50k miles. 5 years later, and about 100k miles we are looking at going to the newer 07+ Expys. NO PROBLEMS in 100k miles. I just replaced all 8 plugs, all the idler pulleys (2 were bad), belt, fuel filter (was pretty bad and just started leaking). Overall, great reliable truck. Leather held up exceptionally well.

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  No problems that wernt expected - 2000 Ford Mustang
  By this is a great car - August 15 - 7:38 pm

  I bought this car in 2000 and I have driven it in my work for the last 10 years. Had to repair the transmission at 125,000 miles changes brakes, shocks and oil. Put on a duel exhaust and an h pipe did a couple of tune up and the car has 342,425 miles on it. Engine runs very good does not burn oil and always starts up when called for. Body is showing some signs of wear and will need body work this year. I love the car and would not think of getting rid of it. Has the usual mechanical problems of any car with that many miles on it but I just love driving it. If I ever had to replace it I would look for another the same style and year

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  Awesome! - 2002 Ford Focus
  By susmck - August 15 - 6:55 pm

  I bought this Focus totaled. It has done nothing but run beautifully since I have had it with 90,000. I knew the person who had it before me and she had no problems either. I have 136,000 miles on it and lots more to go!

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  Best new car Ive owned - 2000 Ford Taurus
  By Josh W. - August 15 - 8:17 am

  I average 18K miles per year. Only replaced one vacuum hose, tires a few times, changed the oil on time and replaced the drivers side power mirror when a deer ran into me. Still on original shocks, plugs and A/C charge. Just this week the cigar lighter circuit shorted out so my GPS wont charge. Power door locks failed a few years back and the cruise control will not "resume" any longer. Brake light in rear window is too large, corrected in newer models. At ten years old with over 180K miles...no complaints from this owner.

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  American muscle - 2007 Ford Mustang
  By bv - August 14 - 9:32 pm

  After reviewing and test driving the 350z, G35 and Mustang gt and I decided to get the Mustang. The z is a blast to drive but doesnt have a back seat. The G35 is expensive to maintain. The great thing about the Mustang is you get a good deal of power in a fun to drive package for a relatively cheap price. With the spoiler, hood scoop and in black, this car can turn heads. In addition, the ride is relatively comfortable for a sport car. This car can be used as a daily commuter and still offer fun at your foots call. With all the after market options the possibilities are endless. Ford got this one right!

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  Love my SHO! - 2011 Ford Taurus
  By NHChris - August 14 - 8:54 pm

  Great car, picked up a week ago and really enjoy it. Had an Infinity M35 prior, and this car is equally as nice for thousands less. Very comfortable, very quiet, fun to drive with the SHO performance package.

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  Great Vehicles - 2011 Ford Flex
  By Blueman861 - August 14 - 2:35 pm

  Went to Sheehy Ford Of Gaithersburg and purchase my 2011 Ford Flex. This vehicle is wonderful. I drove a SUV for many of years and I have to say the V6 EcoBoost Engine is worth the value and great to have with a seven passenger vehicle. If you get the chance go and drive one.