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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  My Ford - 2001 Ford Ranger
  By VBCWXSPOTTER - June 17 - 12:56 am

  This truck in my view handles very well. The five speed manual is very good on gas mileage. Seating is very comfortable for a long legged fellow like me. Towing is a bit sluggish on larger hills though.

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  My Second Expedition - 2002 Ford Expedition
  By capanther - June 17 - 12:52 am

  I finally found a vehicle that I truly love to drive. The quality is outstanding. You just feel that your are driving in something that is put together right. Mine has the 5.4L and the power is outstanding. Sure it wont get 20 miles to the gallon, but I knew that when I picked it out.

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  Ford Tough - 2007 Ford F-150
  By loving it - June 16 - 4:47 pm

  Ive heard some ridiculous commercials from Toyota and Nissan claiming the F150 cant tow a trailer - hogwash! This is my 3rd F150. No complaints ever! Ive driven the Chevy, Titan, Tundra and the Ram and only the Chevy comes close to the F150. If you want a truck to do what you need with a great ride, stick to Ford and Chevy.

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  My Ford Focus - 2004 Ford Focus
  By Debra Anne - June 15 - 6:05 pm

  When I bought my Focus I was looking for a reliable affordable car to get my kids to school, me to work and to the supermarket. But I have to say it is really a pleasure to drive. It responds quickly and tightly to any kind of situation. Smooth shifting, great mileage, and a fun ride overall. A fun fun road trip car. And after three years of a NYC commute and transporting teenagers it is still in excellent condition - not a tick or a sputter. I did my brakes and will do my shocks but this is totally chalked up to NYC roads and driving conditions.

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  Best car with the third row! - 2007 Ford Freestyle
  By sue - June 15 - 10:58 am

  I bought this car a week ago, and I already love it! It isnt too big, and it still has a third row seat, and a lot of room! I like the styling because its not too soccermomish!

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  Love My Stang! - 2006 Ford Mustang
  By grybohhk - June 15 - 2:06 am

  Until this latest generation of Mustang, I have not liked any of the designs since 1970. I opted for the V6 Premium with Pony Package. I have a long commute and gas mileage was a concern. The 5 speed manual transmission gives the V-6 plenty of power. Only issues I have had were poor adhesive on the Pony side stripe and a hose for the emissions equipment came loose. Dealer took care of both of these under warranty. So many aftermarket parts are available to give the Mustang its own personality.

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  Reliable and Fun Automobile to drive. - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By C. Smith - June 14 - 8:41 pm

  If your considering a Honda or Toyota, please look at a Fusion V-6 model. Well worth the trouble. I thouroughly enjoy driving the Ford Fusion through its paces. Very competent vehicle and quiet and fast and good fuel economy to boot. Now when have you heard this coming from an owner of a Ford lately? I recommend this vehicle and the only recommendation I would tell someone if they are thinking of purchasing a Fusion, stay clear of the four cylinder models. They are loud and not much power in my opinion. But the fit and finish will not disappoint you. The SEL model has all the bells and whistles just like the foreign models. So keep the Ford Fusion on your short list.

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  By Far the Best Bargain! - 2007 Ford Ranger
  By Abdul - June 14 - 4:25 pm

  I originally picked up this Ranger FX4 Level ll because of price. All the foreign trucks were considerally more expensive. I have a feeling this is an American website, so I hope you can relate. It is completely loaded with leather, power everything, A/C, six-disk changer, a class three trailer hitch, bed liner and something Ford calls "Wear and Tear Package". Essentialy this truck can be returned with up to $3500 damage at the end of the lease for which I can walk away from having to pay. All for $361. a month taxes in for three years. Hell, theyre giving these trucks away. And this truck looks absolutely awesome

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  Fun & Practical - 2006 Ford Focus
  By Brent - June 14 - 9:13 am

  First Impressions - The first time I drove the Ford Focus Wagon was in 2003 as a rental. I was really amazed how fun it was to drive and so eventually we needed to buy a second car and it had to be capable of long trips that allowed our new dog to come along for the drive. Second Impressions - Our new 2006 Ford Focus Wagon ZXW SES is even better now that when I first drove the Focus. Not only is it extremely fun to drive, but its fully loaded with options that some car makers dont even offer. The engine is peppy yet fuel efficient, the drive feels sporty and the visibility is perfect. Plus we can drive in comfort with leather heated seats and our dog has his own room with a view.

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  Funner n My Ducati? - 2002 Ford Focus
  By Goldmeister - June 14 - 2:00 am

  Well not quite, but this is a very enjoyable little commuter. Buy decision after a 15 minute test drive. Cannot do better for the $$. I did have trouble finding one, good luck on that. BTW this is our third Focus, no probs with any of them.