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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  So Far So Good - 1994 Ford Explorer
  By Matt - November 22 - 3:31 pm

  Bought this as a winter vehicle. Wasnt looking for an Explorer but the price was good ($2,400) for what I got. 119K miles, ZERO rust (rare for Northeast Pennsylvania), and no fluid leaks. The underside is unexpectedly clean. So far I had to put in an AC comp. clutch, steering bushings, EGR sensor and front rotors. I also replaced the horrible stock speakers. Ive heard horror stories about the tranny (main concern before buying) so I bought an extended warranty. Mine is OK except when its cold reverse takes a second or 2. Going to change the fluid. It has push button 4WD but manual hubs... replaced before I bought. Thats another common problem, so Ive heard. Overall, Im happy with it.

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  2002 Ford Taurus SEL Wagon - 2002 Ford Taurus
  By Mikey C. - November 22 - 1:00 pm

  My wife and I Just bought a Taurus Wagon, We loved the price and the space.Traded in a 99 Explorer Sport which was good but not a family car, also seemed like they kept on building it through all the recalls. The Taurus Wagon is very spacious for cargo and passengers. The roof rack is low enough to load up with out bringing a ladder with you as with SUVs. Ride and handling also are good. Dont know why Ford dosent put back seat head rests in there cars.

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  One Week Update - 2010 Ford Escape
  By Bill C - November 22 - 12:49 pm

  After 200 miles, I am very happy with the purchase thus far. 171 hp engine is not a speed demon from rest yet it is not slow. 6 speed auto shifts well, getting 23 mpg around town. Expect it will be near 30 mpg on highway. 302A package adds nice options and car feels strong, safe and leather interior is nice. excellent radio, SIRIUS and hands free phone options, rear view camera and Synch.

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  What a Car! - 2010 Ford Taurus
  By TJ - November 22 - 11:44 am

  We have had our Taurus a little over a month and have driven it 2500 miles to date. Coming off from 3 Park Avenues, the ride is not as smooth as a Buick, however the overall ride is very satisfactory and the fuel economy is great. Averaging about 30 on long distance driving, and 26 with city, freeway, and short trips. What amazes me is the attention the design is getting, with strangers wanting to know more about the car. Have had at least a dozen comments so far on how sharp it is and they cannot believe it is a Ford Taurus. They also comment on the interior design and spacious trunk. Would recommend this car to anyone looking for a well built, fun and comfortable car to drive.

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  Best Ford Sedan Yet - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By Justin1998 - November 22 - 3:10 am

  Wanted an SEL but none were available. Plenty happy with the SE Sport package. Got a great deal on the vehicle. Very quiet and stable going down the road. Brakes are very strong. The transmission shifts smoothly but sometimes hunts between 5th and 6th gears. Visibility out the rear window is not that great due to the high deck lid, but trunk room is enhanced due to it. Power seats and tilt/telescoping wheel add to comfort and the way I fit in the car. Sound quality of the 6-disc CD is good. Power from the 3.0 V6 is not the best but the 6 speed tranny picks the best gear to optimize acceleration. With traction control off the V6 will smoke the front tires for about 10 feet! Great car!

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  Absolutely BLOWN AWAY! - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By Skip Rosen - November 22 - 2:46 am

  Honestly this Fusion may drive as good as out $53,000 BWW 5 Series nightmare (disastrous out of warranty service headaches). The seats and highway steer track are unbeatable!

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  I like it, I love it, cant get enough of it! - 2017 Ford F-150
  By Adaasanchez@yahoo.com - November 22 - 2:10 am

  It had always been a dream of mine to own a truck. When I stepped into the F-150 I knew this was my truck. We bought the v8 version with 385hp and 387 ft lbs of torque. We recently went on a trip and averaged 22mpg. As a father, I love the great crash ratings. My family is protected. It is a great overall truck.

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  My Explorer - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By Poisenivy2 - November 22 - 2:00 am

  I love to drive my Explorer. It handles the road very well and has a smooth ride. If I were to buy an SUV all over again, I would invest in a V8 engine instead of a V6. I would like a little more pickup when driving up hills. I also enjoy the great customer service that I received at Academy Ford in Laurel, MD. I can drop my car off for an oil change and their shuttle will drive me home and pick me up when it is ready.

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  My Ford Explorer - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By sherryg99 - November 22 - 2:00 am

  I love my Ford!

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  Would never buy any other vehicle - 2004 Ford Expedition
  By fantasy shoppe - November 22 - 2:00 am

  We have had 4 of these and loved each and every one!! I would never own any other kind.