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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  Low Budget 4x4 - 2000 Ford Ranger
  By John - July 17 - 9:19 pm

  I bought this truck used in 2005 with a 3.0LV6, with 68K miles on it. It provided me with a 4x4 at an affordable price for a Highschool student. Now, two years later, I have 86K miles and have had nothing go wrong with it other than normal wear and tear. For the price, you are getting a well-designed vehicle inside and out! Definitely a must have for any highschool student that has a parent willing to help them finance. Definitely not for anyone who needs to do heavy hauling or drives more than one other person in it though.

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  Its a so so car - 1998 Ford Taurus
  By Xarron - July 17 - 7:34 pm

  I bought mine at 52K miles and it has served me well. Has had some odd repairs like bent tie rods. (Twice on the same side) Warped roters, and transmission problems. Its still running fairly well but the transmission sticks from first to second.

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  Gas Mileage - 2006 Ford Freestyle
  By Mom - July 17 - 10:02 am

  I am always taking my kids to their next activity. We have plenty of room for travel, friends, equipment. Gas mileage stays around 20mpg in the city which I consider to be good. Going on a long to Florida this summer we never got better gas mileage than 21.2. If you buy this car you will love it for its room and comfort, but dont expect 27 mpg on the highway. I would buy it again.

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  I loved this car, but its a lemon :( - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By Brian - July 17 - 1:13 am

  We bought the LTD AWD as a step away from a minivan for its versatility and modern design. The early ownership experience was very positive, with just two flaws noted - the lack of foot room for third row occupants under the second row seat that limits the effective leg room of the third row and the rear view mirror view that is one-third blocked by the sunroof controls for taller drivers. The acceleration was good with the CVT and the drive train was very smooth. Only on uphill on-ramps would the engine labor to get the 4,000 pound plus vehicle to move quickly. Alas, two CVT failures at the 2,000 mile mark have soured the ownership experience. Ford roadside assistance is also poor with 2+ hour waits.

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  Life with Ranger - Part III - 2007 Ford Ranger
  By 07RangerSport - July 16 - 11:53 pm

  Nearly 16,000 miles on my 07 Sport Supercab, and alls well. Even after that many (abusive L.A.) miles in only 7 months, my truck has yet to so much as rattle! Without any exaggeration, it feels as though this truck was assembled for military duty so perfect"is the build quality. Granted its still the most dated appliance in its genre, but certainly that 1,000 years of production history has served to iron out any bugs from the system. For anybody looking for a classic compact truck, without pretense, of just right"size and certainly impeachable build quality - Ranger warrants a solid look.

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  10 - 1993 Ford Mustang
  By Bryce elmore - July 16 - 11:09 am

  I had gotten this car a little more then a year ago. This is my second car that i have owned. The first car that i owned does not even compare to the Mustang. The Mustang has twice the power and handling that my other car did. I fell in love with this car. The unique outside looks are amazing and all of the other features make it just an unbelieveable car!

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  Very Happy - 2007 Ford Freestyle
  By Paul - July 16 - 10:43 am

  Just bought the Freestyle after looking at minivans. No real competitors to this vehicle. Decided to go with the Freestyle after other minivans felt too bulky while driving and the comfort was not as good. Took a 500 mile trip over the weekend, love the ride, very smooth and very comfortable. Also have an Expedition, Freestyle is more comfortrable. Replaced a Honda CRV because it was too noisy, a stiff ride, and fuel useage was no better than 25mpg. Freestyle got 25+ on trip, very good for a heavier vehicle with V6. When compared to CRV its outstanding.

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  could be better - 2001 Ford Escape
  By Lawrence A - July 16 - 10:00 am

  Great power Nice white gauges.Trans shutters between gears about 45 mph.Rear binds up in 4WD.Headliner and door panel replaced.Ford is aware of trans and binding problem and will fix trans but I have to pay for flushing of trans $150 which is under warrenty.These cars cost to much to be taking back to the dealer to get fixed.

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  A little disappointed! - 2003 Ford F-150
  By Elizabeth Devlin - July 16 - 10:00 am

  Just bought the 2003 Supercrew 4.6 liter, and the gas economy is horrendous. The tires are horrible as they made my truck shake until I hit speeds of 60+. Have to reach up and far to even change the radio. Not made for shorter, smaller people. Shouldnt have test driven a Lariat...

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  The family truckster - 2004 Ford Expedition
  By RBC1971 - July 14 - 11:26 pm

  Just completed 1 year of ownership. Bought it with 37k and now has 49k. Replaced transmission oil with Royal Purple ATF Max Synthetic oil, also am running 5w30 Royal Purple Synthetic Oil in the crank case. A K&N air filter with cold induction has been installed too. My gas mileage went from mid 15s to mid 17s overnight. On the highway cruising 68mph its around 19mpg. We love the room, the 4x4 and ground clearance is tops here in Michigan too. Our only problem weve had is a rear axle whine that is a common on 03 to 06 Expeditions. The 5.4L pulls strong and runs best on premium fuel. With 4 growing kids this Expedition will be with us for a long time coming.