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:

• 

  Nice Performance for the Price - 2004 Ford Mustang
  By Mach 1 Mike - December 30 - 12:33 pm

  This car is a blast from the past. Certainly not a German car inside. However, when the Audi S4 or BMW M3 pull up next to you at a light, fear nothing! Nice 60s muscle car sound.

• 

  Impressive small Ford. - 2001 Ford Focus
  By FocusBoy - December 30 - 10:00 am

  I purchased the car used, with 22500 miles on the odometer. Ive only added 4000 miles since, but the car has had no problems. No stalling, no hesitation, no problems. My SE has the Zetec engine. I know other people have had problems, so maybe they have the "regular" 2.0L engine. The cars ride is firm, but far from harsh. Handling is superb, with steering that is super-sharp...maybe TOO sharp (it responds so quickly that it can feel jerky at times). Ive averaged up to 31-mpg with this car (it routinely gets 27-mpg), so I dont know why others are getting such low figures...must be that heavy right foot. :-)

• 

  02 F150 Lariat FX4 - 2002 Ford F-150
  By lgwilson - December 28 - 11:53 pm

  I love the truck. It is almost three years old now and Ive had zero problems with it so far. I love the 5.4 V8, but wish it got a little better fuel economy, especially on the highway. The interior is roomy, but doesnt grab you when you look at it. The truck rides well around town, yet still is very competent off road as well. This truck is a perfect example of why Ford has had the best selling trucks since the 70s.

• 

  reliable - 1991 Ford Explorer
  By martino - December 28 - 12:07 pm

  I bought it new in 1991. After some warranty problems with wiring and dead batteries no major problems. I now have 199,000 miles and still take it on long trips. Interior is falling apart. Thinking about retiring it and mounting a snowplow.

• 

  Happy to own (sort of) - 2001 Ford F-150
  By Truckster - December 28 - 3:47 am

  For the most part Ive been happy with the truck. Bought new from dealership. Gas mileage poor in town but on the road I usually get around 16 mpg. 4WD probably has a lot to do with the poor mileage in town? My biggest complaints are front tire wear and a rather noisy rattle in the front passenger door. Have had the door panel off twice to correct. Other than what Ford charges for service of the truck its been a great ride. I would buy a a new one if I had the bucks.

• 

  Tee hEeee hee hee - 2004 Ford Ranger
  By TriciA - December 27 - 3:44 pm

  My brother has a ranger, my father has a ranger. Never thought I would buy one but when the Edge came around somehow I couldnt resist so now I own one. Not only did I have a good buying expierence at the dealership the driving expierence has been good as well. Best value for the price I would have to say. Its multifunctional and reliable so far I havent any problems at all and niether have my fellow family members who owns one. My father has put a little over 10,000 miles on his edge already and hasent complained about a thing. Waiting for a good snow to see how it handles...

• 

  All good for 5 years - 2000 Ford F-150
  By Stance - December 26 - 7:08 pm

  My truck has 130,000 miles on it. Other than oil changes and one pair of brakes, its always good to go! It is a 5 speed, plain truck [rubber mats and an a/c], but for the buying price of $17,000, it has been a terrific truck.The same dealership still has the same truck [2004-2005 models] for that same price and I will be buying another soon. I think my son will get another 130,000 miles on my 2000 F150 before it is done!

• 

  Do NOT buy this car without the 2.3 - 2004 Ford Focus
  By Eddie Adams - December 26 - 10:00 am

  I was kind on the fence about this car - I loved the styling and handling, but was underwhelmed by the motor. The Zetec is kinda crude and not too powerful, especially when you drive it back-to-back with Hondas and Toyotas. Then, I drove one with the new Mazda- built 2.3 - what a difference! This motor is a little jewel - smooth and powerful, with a nice little growl as you hit 6000 RPM. Mind you, this is no WRX-hunter, but its plenty quick enough. To top it off, I got a ridiculously good deal - almost $4,000 off, plus a 5/100,000 bumper to bumper warranty.

• 

  My new baby - 2004 Ford Escape
  By Heather MacDonald - December 26 - 10:00 am

  This is my first SUV vehicle and I have always had sports cars but this vehicle has been a great addition to my household. It is quick, handles well, is easy to drive and is extremely comfortable. I can fit an amazing amount of stuff and am glad I did not buy a larger SUV. I absolutely love it!

• 

  My Taurus GL - 1994 Ford Taurus
  By Mike - December 25 - 6:18 pm

  I bought my Taurus a little bit ago, and overall so far its been a good car. Transmission has not failed yet (knock on wood - has 148k on it), but it does shift quite hard and abruptly. Check engine light has been on since Ive had brought it to be looked at and apparently its nothing, so I dont know about that issue. If your looking for something cheap to go from point A to point B, go for it, if your looking for something for road rrips, get a Honda.