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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  93 Ford Mustang Convertible - 1993 Ford Mustang
  By Red Barons review - March 27 - 8:21 pm

  I have had a minimum of problems with this car.

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  Smooth ride, a bit sluggish - 2004 Ford Taurus
  By Taurus 04 - March 26 - 3:14 pm

  Bought this car brand new about a year ago. Paid $12,000 for it. No major problems with it. Front wheel makes squeaky noises, and the dealer cannot fix the problem. It is no big deal, I can barely hear it with the windows down. The car is really smooth to drive. The suspension is extremely soft, but it also handles like a boat. The previous car that I owned was a 99 Chevy Lumina the Ford handles better overall. The engine is slow and sluggish. The transmission is even worse it never knows what gear it is supposed to be in. However if you drive normally you wont have any problems, just dont expect much from the V6. Overall it has been a good experience. Smooth, soft, fast on the highway.

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  Comfortable and peppy - 2004 Ford Escape
  By dennisgo - March 26 - 2:00 am

  This is very car-like small truck. It could have included some small conveniences such as: compass, trip computer, overhead console,12V outlet in the rear. I would recommend getting the lumbar support as the driver seat will do a number on your back on long trips.

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  2003 SE with Zetec & auto - 2003 Ford Focus
  By Koolaid Kid - March 26 - 2:00 am

  Nicely equipped for a reasonable price. Peppy Zetec engine, lots of features too (e.g. cruise, power everything, cd changer in the dash). Handles well for an economy sedan, have to keep remembering to drive safely. Smooth ride, fairly quiet on the road. Comfortable seats, but hard to reach the wheel when the seat is all the way back (6-1, 230 lbs). I was hesitant due to reliability and build quality reputation, hope I am not disappointed like some Focus owners.

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  50,000 miles with my FX4 4WD Ford Ranger - 2005 Ford Ranger
  By Fred - March 26 - 12:14 am

  I have put 50,000 miles on my truck, including some serious low range 4WD on old mining roads. The original shocks stink, I replaced them with Rancho Adjustables which vastly improved the handling. I use my Ranger for work and play. The truck with the lumbar adjustable seats is reasonably comfortable for a long days drive. I have had no problems what so ever with it. Would I buy another one? Probably, its good value for the money.

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  Will drive this one till it dies... - 1996 Ford Explorer
  By LUVmySUV - March 25 - 12:59 pm

  I bought this new in 1996. Fabulous vehicle all-around, no issues, never been in the shop for any mechanical reason. I especially love the tight turning radius. It will do a 360 on a dime. My only complaint is the poor 14/17 mpg. Ive never seen the 18/21 it was rated by Ford.

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  My favorite car - 2001 Ford Mustang
  By Justin Hilton - March 25 - 11:28 am

  This is my 3rd mustang. My first with a v8. True to its title as an American muscle car, it lacks the refinement you would find in other types of vehicles. Drafty inside with a lot of interior noise. Choppy ride ... but despite all this it is still my favorite car ever.

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  2001 Taurus SES - 2001 Ford Taurus
  By mdurda - March 25 - 10:00 am

  Overall- great American car; converted me from being a loyal Toyota owner.

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  The Explorer - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By HOOKYPOOKY - March 25 - 10:00 am

  The Explorer is not only a wonderful mid-size SUV, its Fords best SUV, yet. It has made up for past mistakes. A roomy cabin and optional third row seat are a nice add on! A V-6 or V-8 engine can tow great weight. The 1/2 trunk hatch helps with loading groceries. Optional leather interior. 6-CD player is a nice feature. Seating 8 is great, too.

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  Very disappointed - 2005 Ford Excursion
  By Cheryl - March 24 - 5:46 pm

  Ive been through two of them. One returned for the lemon law and now Im on the second one. Ive had it 10 months and the transmission went out. Im very upset about this.