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:

• 

  Body build needs quality control - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By commentator - July 7 - 4:44 pm

  The upper part of the tailgate cracked by itself. It cost $350 to get it replaced. The service guy said this happened quite often. Hope Ford will improve body build quality. Please dont change the exterior look. Everybody loves the outside look, but each complains about the gas mileage and minor body problems. Id like to buy a new Explorer but am waiting for good news about the body build quality and better gas mileage. Is Ford considering a hybrid version?

• 

  Does many things well - 2009 Ford Flex
  By basswood - July 7 - 12:34 pm

  Flex is very comfortable, easy to drive. Mine has no telescoping wheel, so I cant give myself all the leg room I would like to have. Excellent choice for tall people anyway. It is quiet and smooth on all surfaces. Good pickup when you need it. Mileage is surprisingly good. Mine is getting betterabout 19mpg around suburbs!

• 

  200,000 and Still going Strong - 1997 Ford Thunderbird
  By Barbara - July 7 - 10:28 am

  I bought this car brand new in 1997 and just passed the 200,000 mile mark. The car starts every time, even if it sits for a month at a time without starting. The engine is fantastic and except for usual maintenance, the engine & transmission are in perfect condition. You cant beat an American made 8 cylinder. I have never owned anything but fords - 4 mustangs, 1 Thunderbird, 1 focus, 1 escape and next on to the fusion. Just wish it was 2 door.

• 

  Regular Car - 2000 Ford Focus
  By Regular Car - July 7 - 9:45 am

  I have bought from my uncle three months ago. Since this I had repair the water pump, and big problems with the electrical system, I have replaced the coil, crankshaft, and other problems with the fuse box. Too many issues for a little time. Ah, otherwise the mechanics complain because the space in the engine is very small, then the repair cost could be more expensive. Apart of that the car have a excellent exterior design, is very comfortable, and have a good performance.

• 

  Our Third Family Focus - 2010 Ford Focus
  By dlmckm - July 7 - 9:20 am

  This is our third focus, 1st one has 80,000 miles, 2nd one 45,000 miles, and this one 12,000, none have ever been returned for any repairs. forget the 34 mpg on the sticker, Im averaging 39 - 41 and its an automatic. Great cars for the money very reliable.

• 

  Great suv - 2010 Ford Explorer
  By great suv - July 7 - 7:41 am

  I bought the car in March only thing I didnt like no leather seats. After shipping around found a leather kit had it installed looks just it came from the factory. Lots of room really quit engine not as fast as mustang gt I traded but it gets me there. Love the adjustable gas and break pedals. Did a lot of looking but I think overall the explorer was the best bang for the buck.

• 

  Fun to Drive! - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By Doodle Bug - July 6 - 10:16 pm

  This is a great car. I traded in a VW Beetle for an "adult" car and was very surprised. It is really roomy and can comfortably seat adults in the backseat with ample leg room. The value with this car is amazing. It feels like youre driving a much more expensive car.

• 

  Dont buy it - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By JLL - July 6 - 3:20 pm

  I have had my fusion since March of 2006. The 3 yr/36,000 mile warranty is gone and so is my transmission. I have had crappy gas mileage on this car pretty much since I bought it. Ford says I need to replace the transmission because of a bad solenoid and they will contribute $1000.00 to the cause. Ghee thanks Ford! If it wasnt for the crappy transmission I wouldnt need your help at all. Will not buy another Ford!

• 

  Best Mustang ever - 2011 Ford Mustang
  By Tony - July 6 - 3:11 pm

  The new 5.0 is everything youve heard and more. It is as strong running as my 2003 supercharged Cobra was, while being much more comfortable, quiet and not to mention fuel efficient. Highly recommended.

• 

  Good, Basic Vehicle - 2007 Ford Taurus
  By TaurusSaurus - July 6 - 12:38 pm

  Purchased in early 2007, with 20k miles. Have driven it heavily for 3+ yrs and have had one issue, clogged windshield wiper fluid pump (~$20 @ Auto Zone). Despite claiming to only have 153HP it performs much better, quick acceleration, good stopping power, smooth shifting, etc. A good, BASIC car for every day driving - ton of room for people/cargo, decent gas mileage, quick cooling ac, quick to heat in winter, cheap parts, and easy ability to perform your own maintenance. At 70k Ive put on new tires and brakes, a new serpentine belt (15 min job if you know what youre doing), & stay up to date with oil changes/other maintenance. Good car, and a lot cheaper than equivalent.