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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  X - 2001 Ford F-150
  By denner - September 4 - 10:00 am

  GREAT truck, lots of fun to drive, plenty of power and comfort. Happy with my purschase

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  Love this SUV - 2004 Ford Expedition
  By teacher7 - September 4 - 10:00 am

  This truck has been a joy to drive. Feels very safe and easier to park than my 97 explorer. Power fold down seats are awesome!

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  Love it - 2003 Ford Expedition
  By Mcke - September 4 - 10:00 am

  I am spoiled by my car. I love the new look of the 2003, the a/c seats, the dvd player, and the easy steering. It has more luxuries that I didnt know I needed. :) Very happy. Jenny

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  Nice Package! - 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By Escape Hybrid - September 4 - 1:30 am

  Very comfortable and fun to drive. Lots of space for passengers and gear.

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  my first and only ford - 2006 Ford Focus
  By wade - September 3 - 11:38 pm

  I bought the car pre owned it had 43,000 k on it in the last 6 months I had the (wheel bearings, oxygen sensor, and heated seats replaced) I, m having trouble with the heater controls, the gas peddle sticks when its cold out and now the radio isnt working which is going to cost $700.00 to replace. The car isnt good in the snow and there, s a lot of road and wind noise.

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  No more Fords for me - 2000 Ford Focus
  By Shannon Hewett - September 3 - 7:49 pm

  I purchased this car as an inside deal. It has been towed 3 times. The fuel pump went out, the fuel line leaked, the ignition went out, the front coil springs broke, exhaust is load, replaced catolac convertor, the number three piston went out (needs new motor). I sold it to the junk yard to a sucker for 250.00. I will never buy another ford. Oh... Two of Focus friends also had the same problems. This is the worst car ever. When the fuel pump goes bad, you cant let the fuel level drop below half a tank. That makes long trips fun. Dont buy it so Ford will stop making it.

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  Ford has the Edge on this one! - 2009 Ford Edge
  By warmsunSeattle - September 3 - 3:13 pm

  Cash for Clunkers combined with rebates and dealer discount, I could not be anymore happier with my purchase. The ride is quiet, smooth and handles well, practically glides over bumps, potholes & train tracks. Front seats are very comfortable. Lumbar support adds comfort on long trips. Synch makes it a car for the 21st century. Mileage could be better but, hey, at least it doesnt takes premium unleaded gas. The interior is spacious for passengers & cargo. Rear and front passenger seats fold down providing lots of room for trips to the hardware store. Comes with key fob so no more locking my keys in the car.

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  Above 75,000 plan on some problems - 2001 Ford Expedition
  By Brian - September 3 - 1:49 pm

  A very safe and roomy SUV. Never have to worry when it snows, good pick up from a stop. About 14-16 MPG, can see 19 on a long trip. In general a well built SUV for a domestic.

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  Best Truck Ever Owned - 1996 Ford F-150
  By SemperFi_10 - September 3 - 1:13 pm

  I bought this truck back in May. It had 162,000 miles on it. I have drove this truck all over the place, and occasionally take it mudding with friends, even though I dont have 4WD. It is the most reliable vehicle I have owned yet and it rides and performs in all aspects just like it came off the line that day. Hands down, I couldnt have asked for a better truck for $750!

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  Poor Quality. Nothing but troubles - 2006 Ford Five Hundred
  By Paul - September 3 - 12:16 pm

  Buy a Toyota or Nissan or Honda. This car is the worst. I have had nothing but troubles with it. I have had it in the shop at least 6 times in 11 months. Bad rotors, replaced rotors, ground rotors, air conditioning problem, brake out at 30K, loudest car ever. Save your money and buy Japanese. I just bought a Maxima and love it. Soon I will get rid of Ford forever.