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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  33 MPG Highway, Toyota who? - 2008 Ford Edge
  By 33 mpg Highway - July 29 - 8:18 am

  I submitted a review a month after the wife and I bought a 2008 Edge, but could not wait to brag about the gas mileage we got on our 2,145 mile vacation from Iowa to North Carolina. When we left it had 2,881 miles on it. At first I did not care for the gas mileage at all, but the dealership kept telling me the mileage would get better and boy did it! I always use the cruise control, and at 74 mph this new Edge averaged 33 mpg and I have 4 people who can verify this. So eat your heart out Toyota owners. Ford has a great American crossover in this new Edge.

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  Right On! - 2004 Ford F-150
  By Derek - July 29 - 2:03 am

  This is one awesome truck! As a matter of fact you tend to forget youre in a truck! Ride is by far the best all around. Ive driven them all because thats what I do for a living; nothing compares to what this machine does for you. Many onlookers and challengers everyday and with that alone, Im glad I got my truck!

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  Check Flight - 2005 Ford Five Hundred
  By SHERMAN-TANK - July 28 - 10:03 pm

  The 500 is more than I expected and I researched this vehicle like I do the airplanes I fly. Ford has made this a technological leader.

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  I know, I know, all 10s? - 1999 Ford Mustang
  By Ruby The Red Pony - July 28 - 2:07 pm

  Yep. And its the truth. I have had nothing but a great experience owning this little pony for the past 9 years running strong. It still shines up nice, gets looks from everybody- and their mom. It sounds cool even with a stock v6. Nice little rumble. Power? Very sufficient. Handling? Does fine, takes corners, stops on a dime. Interior? I have driven the new (05+ models) and I honsetly didnt feel as snug in them. I like the hugging quality of this model over the newer, more sedan-like interiors. Feels sportier. I put GT rims and tires on mine for a little more handling. Never had a breakdown. I have driven this thing across the country, pure joy. What a great car. For the price, a great deal. Great stereo, great motor, looks awesome. A value and a joy.

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  I love it! - 2000 Ford Explorer
  By Tracy - July 28 - 1:25 pm

  This is by far the best vehicle Ive had. It looks great, its the perfect size, and its really great on gas! If youre looking for a small SUV I would highly recommend this one!

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  Very happy owner - 2004 Ford Explorer Sport Trac
  By JRDALD617 - July 28 - 2:00 am

  I have been very happy with my new vehicle. I would recommend the running boards.

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  ford focus - 2004 Ford Focus
  By outlet - July 28 - 2:00 am

  terrific to drive......a lot of head room for large bodies

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  I LOVE MY CAR!!!! - 2004 Ford Focus
  By Marinewife831 - July 28 - 2:00 am

  I have had my car going on 1 year soon and I love it. I have put a few performance parts on her and she runs and looks like a dream. My husband and I even named her lil lemon. I have a 5 yr old little boy and between us three there is no comfort problems, she is wonderful on gas, since my husband will drive it every now and then from the AV to Camp Pendleton and it will fit all of his marine gear with NO problems. I LOVE MY CAR!

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  Ill always have a ZX3 in my driveway. - 2004 Ford Focus
  By QueenBecca84 - July 28 - 2:00 am

  My experience with a ZX3 2000 Ford Focus Hatchback 2 door has been really awesome. I fell in love once my eyes set on her. I have a really bad obsession with this car.

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  Oh Yeah! - 2004 Ford Focus
  By beetle_chick_cj - July 28 - 2:00 am

  As a poor college student this car was my first choice. It is very economical (the price and the amount I save on gas). I recommend this car to anyone! It is very roomy inside and is extremely quiet!