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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  The legend continues - 2005 Ford Mustang
  By Back in the saddle - May 25 - 5:20 pm

  When I bought this car all I could say is WOW! Fun to drive and really turns heads.

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  Love the 150 - 2007 Ford F-150
  By Gregg - May 25 - 3:12 pm

  I just bought a new 2007 F150 Lariat, so I cant speak to long-term quality like some others might, but I have to say that it is much more than I expected. The brakes are awesome and what sold me on the truck as I looked for a tie-breaker between it and the 2008 Titan. The ride is very good and the cabin is so quite that it is hard to believe you are in a truck. The accessories are convenitently located and the appeal of the Lariat interior is super. The trim is complex and appealing. Theres rich wood trim in combination with some modern metalic type finishes, as well as bright chrome. Seat support is good too. I was afraid I would miss my Lincoln but now wonder why I didnt do this sooner.

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  Love this car - 2000 Ford Explorer
  By Lauren - May 25 - 2:32 pm

  This was my familys 4th Explorer and were going to continue buying Explorers because they are great SUVs. Everything was great about it, I never had any problems. When the car was totalled it had over 150,000 miles on it and it was running strong. I got into a pretty bad accident in it and it held up really well and no one was injured. I feel like this is a really safe car and I really liked it a lot.

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  Ford tough - 1991 Ford Ranger
  By Zeke Dalrymple - May 25 - 1:51 pm

  This is a great strong truck highly recommend

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  "Payback Pony" - 2006 Ford Mustang
  By Lizard - May 25 - 1:07 pm

  While in hospital for 4 months, I used the latest style Mustang as my "carrot to recovery." My 1st "pinned in the seat" experience was in a 68 428 (I was 9). V6 goes like a small V8. In Canada, Ford markets this as the "Pony Pkg," which includes the handling pkg (ABS, traction control, and rear sway bar). Beautiful "Bullitt" wheels (17") and Pirrellis, are included, along with Pony badging. 5 speed auto is smooth and saves gas (22 mpg imp). Build quality rivals my Camry. The vented, 4 wheel disc brakes are amazing! Car really handles well, too. Overall, Im very pleased, with this well balanced car. The 210 horsepower V6 is ample for todays economy/gas prices/speed limits.

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  120,000 miles, No Problems - 1994 Ford Ranger
  By Vasolini - May 25 - 11:45 am

  This has been a great vehicle. Although the 4 cylinder engine lacks a bit of power for towing, the truck has been the most reliable vehicle I have ever owned. The only time Ive ever had it in the shop was because of the hydralic clutch. I could not get that thing to bleed out the air! Other than that, just the usual maintenance, and this truck could last forever, just about!

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  Great Car If Maintained - 1994 Ford Explorer
  By Cesar G - May 24 - 5:07 pm

  I purchased this car in 1995 from a private party. The car now has 235,000 miles and is still running strong. The only problem that I had was changing the starter besides that the regular maintance.

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  Love it! - 2002 Ford F-150
  By mykl - May 24 - 1:29 pm

  I bought this truck used about a year and a half ago. I plan on having it forever. I have had no major problems with it. I was either going to buy this truck or a similar used 2004 (new style) F-150 model, but I really like this style better. It feels/drives more like a truck (the 2004 for felt/drove more like an SUV to me) and also feel it is a stronger, more durable vehicle. If you are looking for a used truck and come across a 2002-2003 F-150, give it a try and you wont be disapointed. This is a truck that you will still see on the road in 10-20 years....something you couldnt say about a Dodge.

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  3 times a charm - 2007 Ford Expedition
  By Paulie - May 23 - 10:09 pm

  This is my 3rd Expedition. Two 2004s and now this 2007 limited. I can tell you that by far that this is the much improved one over the 2004 models. Interior fit and finish is much improved, engine performance is much more responsive, this vehicle is very quiet on the road. The changes that Ford made are right on the money. Not only did they add lots of cool stuff but it is all very functional and they all work together to make the vehicle complete. Folks this is a lot of vehicle, with the best creature comforts anyone would want at a bargain price. Just do your comparison and see for yourself. Option for option this vehicle comes out on top by far.

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  Pleasantly surprised - 2007 Ford Five Hundred
  By Richy - May 23 - 7:40 am

  I purchased mine in 2008 with 22k miles. I currently have 160k and running great. I have put 2 sets of tires, 2 batteries and a set of breaks and plugs/wires. Only repair is a water pump at 145k. The only complaint I have is the map light, it was replaced under warranty but still drives me crazy; cant get it to go out once I turn it on. I love the spacious cabin and trunk. Everybody that rides in the back seat is amazed at the space. I have commuted a lot and go on long trips a few times a year and the seats have never been uncomfortable. This vehicle is easy to get in and out of due to the height of the seats. I have hauled numerous large items such as 8 ft tables, antique sewing machine, recliner, even a wheelchair (with luggage). I settled for this Ford because I couldnt afford the Buick.... never dreamed it would be this great.