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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  XLS 15month 33k mile update - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By tomx15 - March 20 - 2:00 am

  Own a XLS V-6 w/Auto for 15months with almost 34k miles. Front seats not comfortable. Interior/exterior great design. Mileage is 17MPG none better w/70% hwy miles. Warranty service: replaced anti-lock brake sensor; crack in half tailgate under Ford logo - Whole rear window of tailgate is going to be replaced! Hope this thing lasts..

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  2001 Ford Ranger 4.0L 4x4 Extended Cab - 2001 Ford Ranger
  By Scott D - March 19 - 2:11 pm

  I am very impressed with the Ranger. It drives very well and handles well also. Seems to be very reliable with little upkeep. Only improvements would be better fuel economy and the stepside bed does not allow much room to haul things. Overall, very happy and would definitely suggest someone looking at Rangers to get one. Very affordable.

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  Started out nice. - 2000 Ford Escort
  By Amanda - March 19 - 2:32 am

  Have only put 29,000 on it in the 4 years Ive owned. Total mileage at this point is 50,000. In the past 4 years the only repairs were to BOTH tie rod ends. Also have a tensioning belt that isnt centered. Then my engine starting chirping/squeaking when idling. Turns out I need my timing belt and all components replaced. They also found my head gasket was leaking. $1,400 estimate to repair. Seems a bit ridiculous on a car with so few miles that was babied.

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  Cant beat this! - 1990 Ford Festiva
  By Kevyn - March 18 - 3:17 pm

  This has been a reliable, fun, long- time friend. I bought the car new in 1989. She has maneuvered me from many a mishap, always started except for one alternator change and 2 batteries. My "Car-Car" has 338,000 miles on her and Ill only replace her because shes noisy, and MY older body needs more comfort. I still average 40 miles/gallon (without use of heat or air conditioning. I have never replaced a clutch.

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  Make sure its what you want - 2004 Ford F-150
  By george - March 18 - 8:53 am

  Ive owned several pickup trucks from different manufacturers. Make sure you buy one that you need. The F-150 has the best frame in the business. But what good is that if the drivetrain self-destructs? Youre left with a large paper weight in your driveway. For me, the Tundra would have been a better choice. Even with its less developed frame, it is much more reliable. But you cant get $11,000 off msrp on a Toyota.

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  4 Transmissions in 5 Years? - 2001 Ford Escort
  By No More Ford. - March 18 - 12:55 am

  Ive had this car for about five years now and its got 64,000 miles on it. I am on my FOURTH transmission (Ive got a manual), and Ford isnt interested in hearing about it. While everything else about the car is fine, I am at the point where I may as well buy a new car since repair costs just about equal payments on a new car. At first the car was perfect, but now I dont trust it and I wouldnt recommend it to anyone.

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  Ranger is rugged - 2000 Ford Ranger
  By William - March 17 - 10:15 am

  Bought this vehicle six weeks ago from original owner whod put 82,000 miles on it. Had it tuned up (new plugs, serpentine belt, engine coolant, etc.) and it runs great. Has 4.0 V-6 with 5 speed automatic. Ideal for hauling off yard debris, clipping or the occasional piece of furniture, etc. Excellent for towing my motorcycle. Gas mileage isnt great, but thats because of 4.10 rear end. So far so good.

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  it just runs - 2000 Ford Focus
  By Brian - March 15 - 2:31 pm

  I bought it new with 12 miles on it currently has 84,0000 miles and has never given me an expensive out of warranty issue, always delivers - very low maintenance.

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  Performance - 2005 Ford Escape
  By linda pico - March 15 - 6:26 am

  I just love the way my Ford Escape handles. I was a little disappointed that it didnt have cruise control as a standard feature; however, I am still very happy with my SUV.

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  SVT!!!!!!! - 2002 Ford Focus
  By mrpolo - March 15 - 2:00 am

  This car is pretty awesome. Especially for the money. The best "bang for your buck" out there today. The handling is superb and the power is great. Overall this is the best sport hatch out!