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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  165,000 Miles & Strong - 1998 Ford F-150
  By Roxanne - August 28 - 10:33 pm

  Most reliable, trustworthy vehicle I have ever owned. As original owner and at 165K, I have had less than $1,000 in repairs in 8 years. Maintenance costs have been very reasonable. Mine is a manual with V6 -- gets about 17 mpg city & 20 mpg highway. Highly recommend this over the Silverado. Still has tight steering, great suspension, great ride, no rattles -- after many camping trips on unmaintained roads.

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  Nice ride - 2005 Ford Escape
  By EVELYN - August 28 - 8:50 pm

  This Ford Escape has been a pleasant experience for me. It rides comfortably on long trips. It has room and I like the way it lets you lay the seats for comfort. I like everything about this Escape

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  01 Mustang Cobra Convertible - 2001 Ford Mustang
  By Nowell - August 28 - 3:13 pm

  This car replaced my 01 Trans Am WS6. Cobras interior quality is a little better but fells cramp. What I like the most in this car is that its a convertible! The T/A is very stable at speed, but for side street performance Id go with the Cobra. My conclusion is Cobra is fun to drive in the street and the convertible makes it looks better.

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  2002 ZTS - 2002 Ford Focus
  By sanjosezts - August 28 - 1:53 am

  Bought my 2002 Focus ZTS for $17K out the door (MSRP on mine was $19,840), and could not be happier. I ended up with a great looking and handling car that has leather, moonroof, 6 disc in dash changer, ABS/Traction control, side airbages, and 16 inch wheels. No, it is not fast, but the handling is so tight I hardly notice. I have over 5,000 miles so far, and have not had one issue. Quality is great, car feels very solid, with no squeaks or rattles so far.

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  happy customer -- needs improvements - 2004 Ford Expedition
  By seasonashley - August 27 - 5:11 pm

  We have had this noise in the car for about 8 months now. We have taken it to the dealership to be looked at (2 different ones) and we have been told that this is normal. I love my Expedition, but I hate the noise it makes EVERY time I crank the car up. We want to trade this one in and get a new one but were told that the next one might or might not make the noise and that every one is different.

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  Great Van - 2005 Ford Freestar
  By Great Van - August 27 - 12:51 pm

  I have only had my van for a couple of weeks, but so far the family loves it. The kids really like the DVD system and I like the peace and quiet I get when Im in the car. It seems that this van has something for everyone. The captain chairs in the second row are great. It gives the kids plenty of room to spread out. I love all the storage and the deep space in the back ... no more having to chase the groceries around. Overall I think I made a smart purchase, especially with all the rebates and discount pricing I got a great deal and a great family vehicle.

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  Wonderfully Designed, Fair reliability - 1997 Ford Explorer
  By Neill - August 27 - 11:40 am

  I truly enjoy this vehicle. It gets me to my critical job when the city is on snow emergency, with ease. The Auto 4x4 is great, as is the layout of the entire car. Rear heating is also an added plus. As far as comfort and design, this car is a winner. When it comes to reliability however, this car has issues. My tranny had to be rebuilt at 98k miles, suspension system is falling apart despite replacing shocks at 112k, also numerous little rattles/alarming noises from the engine have had to be administered to. Overall, I enjoy the car.

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  I havent had it long - 2001 Ford Ranger
  By Kevin - August 27 - 2:14 am

  So far I really like it. It handles well, No problems, nice to drive. Gas hasnt killed me yet. Could be better I guess.

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  Crown Vic - 2005 Ford Crown Victoria
  By Rob - August 26 - 11:53 am

  Good solid old fashioned car.

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  Blown engine - 2004 Ford Escape
  By aceron76 - August 26 - 10:50 am

  My engine threw a rod at 34,311 miles and punched 2 holes in the block. Ford replaced it under warranty. If you buy a Ford make sure you are aware of their Road Side Assistance program and you also may want to get an extended warranty. They dont give you a replacement car or a rental without an extended warranty. I was without my vehicle for 2 weeks.