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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  EXPLORE THIS!!!! - 2003 Ford Explorer Sport
  By Gootz - August 28 - 10:00 am

  Great all around SUV. Tows 2 seadoos no problem, tows 2 sleds no problem, tows my 22 ft. boat no problem, you cant really even feel it back there, and the ride quality is great

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  Thoughtfully designed, fun to drive - 2002 Ford Focus
  By patrick - August 28 - 10:00 am

  I wanted a three-door hatchback to replace my 89 CRX. The Focus ZX3 had the best collection of features for me and its lived up to my expectations. Good flexible cargo area, good fuel mileage, fun to drive, easy to drive on clogged expressways, good stereo, easy to read instruments in all lighting conditions--and cute in Sangria Red!

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  Mechanical Problems - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By jfg - August 28 - 10:00 am

  One month old with 1300 miles: 1) rear axle started "singing" (LOUD) between 45 mph and 70 mph at around 250 miles; 2) transmission doesnt always know when to shift, especially when warmed up and frequently hesitates to downshift for 3-4 seconds when trying to pass; 3) when warm the engine sometimes doesnt have much power when accelerating from a stop but might be ok after the next stop -- may be related to transmission problem; 4) the hard plastic, curved, one-piece gas pedal is junk! Havent taken it to the dealer yet but probably will in the next week or so.

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  Lovin it! - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By Carmen - August 27 - 7:11 am

  I bought my Explorer used with 15,000 miles on it. Its a pearl white limited. Its truly the best looking vehicle on the road. Ive had a few problems with it(paint chipped, transmission needed to be rebuilt, seals leaked and rocker arms needed to be replaced) However, my husband and I relate it to the fact that it sat, undriven, for an extended period of time. Ive owned many different types of vehicles (Chevy, Honda, Chrysler) but I always go back to Ford. Ive had problems with the autos but, overall, theyre the best value for the money.

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  Built Ford Tough - 2008 Ford Explorer Sport Trac
  By bwhite - August 27 - 3:13 am

  I have owned my V6 XLT for three months and I have been very happy with my purchase. I dont need to haul large or heavy objects very often, so the small bed works for me. The ride is comfortable and composed. The V6 has plenty of power and everything has been reliable. Ford needs to work on the fuel economy. I am not dissappointed with the mileage, but I think Ford could do better.

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  Awsome SUV - 2005 Ford Escape
  By nelson - August 27 - 12:08 am

  It has been very good SUV so far. I put a KN air filter and it runs better with it. NO major work so far, only oil changes and a fuel filter. Tires are loud. I would rather put Goodyear tires when the stock ones need replacing. I get about 19mpg around town and 24mpg highway.

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  Great car, so fun to drive! - 2002 Ford Mustang
  By Natalie - August 26 - 11:29 pm

  I love this car, its so fun to drive! Gas mileage could be better but thats a sacrifice you make when you drive a sports car. Drives great, comfy seats, beautiful exterior.. definitely brings out the inner racecar driver in you!

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  Very happy - 2004 Ford F-150
  By Bob - August 26 - 8:26 pm

  I am very happy with my 2004 F-150. We use to to pull our 30 camper and never have had an issue with it. People even stop me and say, "you pull that camper with that truck"? The drawback is the 8 mpg when pulling. I have towed from Michigan to Mammoth Caves, to Maine and to Virginia and never had a problem. The interior is very nice for a truck and the black trim holds up very well.

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  Ford 500 - 2005 Ford Five Hundred
  By montasir - August 26 - 2:03 pm

  I really like this car, having only driven an SUV for so long it was a pleasant change. The only problem is I wish I had gotten the AWD. I had a little problem in the snow a few months ago I got stuck so many times it was awful. I also think the the seats could be a little more comfortable and maybe heated and a little more ajustable. Thank you.

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  I love this truck! - 2002 Ford F-150
  By badge1025 - August 25 - 7:40 pm

  I finally got it. Ive always wanted one and found my 02 at the Ford dealership. It only had 43k and in perfect condition. The performance is unreal. Gas mileage is ok for whats under the hood. I drove this truck from Florida to Ohio and averaged only 16 mpg. It was very comfortable and quiet. I towed a car back with it and lost 2 mpg averaging 13-14. I cant say enough about this truck. I really enjoy driving and owning it. Mine is red and completly stock. The best part is the blower whine. The truck handles like a sports car. Buy this truck. It is unreal. I always get comments and questions about it at the gas pump.