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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  96 GT Probe - 1996 Ford Probe
  By David - December 1 - 1:14 am

  I got my Probe GT 08/2007 and Ive put over 40,000 miles on it only having to change the oil and put gas in it. But it does only get 17 or 18 mpg and its still running like new still to this day

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  Its A Keeper - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By one_asylum - November 29 - 12:45 pm

  We were at the end of our lease for this car and after pricing and researching new vehicles not to mention I finally looked at my lease end agreement and found I could purchase it for $12756 it was a no brainer especially since it only has 28000 miles on it. From checking current selling prices with all the options I have on mine retail seems to be anywhere from $14,000 up. I do wish the gas mileage was a little better, were fairly easy on the pedal and still only average 20mpg. Have not had any problems and it still is fun to drive.

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  EXCELENT FUN & EXCITEMENT - 2004 Ford Focus
  By joe drake - November 29 - 10:00 am

  I love my focus! My wife had a 2001 zx3 when they came out with the svt after driving the zx3 three I new this was something I had to drive. I loved the way the zx3 handle and it had a nice amonent of horse power. When I new i could aFord a new car. I had to test drive the focus svt. I was in love if i could get a so called nicer more pricy car I would have to pass. This car moves on demand the only thing I would ever drive is a more powerful focus. I didnt just buy a svt zx5 but also bought a zx5 for my wife to replace her zx3. Because now we have to kids the focus svt zx5 gives me the fun of a sports car and the comfort to carry my to kids in style.

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  Very pleased! - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By jsmith_41 - November 29 - 10:00 am

  Ive only had this vehicle a short time now, Ive traded in my Expedition for it. What a fun car to drive! Its SO smooth! Ive really been enjoying it! It has great pep, design, comfort & options that make it very luxurious. The 3rd row seat is very comfortable & easy to get in/out of, considering the size of the Explorer.

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  Excellent SUV - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By Emilee - November 29 - 10:00 am

  Going from a Honda Accord to a Ford Explorer raised some questions from people around me; however, I was and still impressed with how different the Explorers are from a few years ago. I have proven my theory that they were beautiful cars, inside and out, and the gas mileage is not all that bad (excluding uncontrollible rising gas prices). I am really impressed with the whole package and I did not realize that Ford had come such a long way. Having only owned four cars: Nissan Pathfinder, Ford Mustang, Honda Accord, and now a Ford Explorer I have to say that I am completely satisfied. Needless to say, I love my 2004 Ford Explorer Limited.

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  Intelligently designed car, great price - 2007 Ford Five Hundred
  By MHT - November 27 - 10:33 pm

  This car meets all my requirements: minimal blind spots, excellent fuel economy, comfortable on a long trip, lots of cargo space, 5 star crash ratings, reasonable price. It is enjoyable to drive. It is not underpowered and merges, climbs hills and passes with no trouble at all. The headlights are better than many other cars. It is a safe size here in the land of huge trucks and huge SUVs. (I do most of my driving in Texas and Oklahoma where more trucks than cars are on roads) The all wheel drive is wonderful in both a heavy snow storm and a heavy rainstorm. The brakes are excellent. Heater, air conditioner and defrosters front and back are top of the line. This also matters a lot here.

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  2007 V-6 Pony Package - 2007 Ford Mustang
  By Bill - November 27 - 10:26 pm

  Fun car to drive. The retro look and the interior upgrades with the Pony package made this the perfect car. Installed the Ford Racing dual exhaust system with excellent results, nice sound and better gas mileage.

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  Overall, I love this car! - 2012 Ford Focus
  By coffeegeek - November 27 - 8:32 pm

  I purchased the 2012 4-Dr Sdn SE with Equip group 203A including cruise control, MyFord Sync and Sirius 6 Spkr Radio, and Optional Equipment of SE Sport pkg with Alloy Wheels, Select Shift 6 Speed Auto Transmission, Disc Brakes Front and Rear and Rear Spoiler. I am averaging 35 miles per gallon so far. This car easily keeps up with flow of traffic. On the Interstate it accelerates easily and cruises comfortably. The built in blind spot mirrors make it easy to double check for lane changes and entering on ramps. The steering is very responsive to maneuvers for unexpected circumstances. The trunk has ample room for shopping, or traveling. The fog lights are great in fog or rain conditions.

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  Great Stang - 2005 Ford Mustang
  By Chris - November 27 - 7:46 pm

  I never thought Id buy a Ford car (I love the trucks), but when I took a test drive in the 05 Mustang, I drove off the lot and said "this is my car". Two days later I picked up the same car and drove it home. And its been a thrill driving to work in the morning (a cool car helps the morning blues!) Great exterior from front to back and a kicking stereo system. Interior is tame and reminiscent of the late 60s models. Love it! Ford outdid themselves on this one-of-a-kind comeback!

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  Realiability at its best - 1999 Ford Taurus
  By derson - November 27 - 3:40 pm

  Purchased car for $1500. Needed car for personal/work. I use car on occasion for mail delivery. Roomy enough for trays in drivers seat, and comfortable enough to right-hand drive without hyper-extending the legs/arms. Gas mileage is excellent - 26mpg personal (I have over 141k), and 15-17mpg for work (I drive 72 miles and have over 300 starts/stops.) I recently replaced rack/tie rods/ball joints, but it was not Fords fault. I curbed the tires when delivering mail. Great in snow. Have never been stuck - even in 10 inches of snow! Use Havoline oil & Seafoam - increased mileage 3-4mpg. My carrier just replaced his Taurus for new one. Wouldnt replace if wasnt reliable!