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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  This is truly the most bang for your $$$ - 2004 Ford Mustang
  By andrewpc01 - October 23 - 2:00 am

  Amzaing power off the line. The supercharger is a little on the loud side but man does it ever get you from 0-60 in 4.7sec. This is my 4th Mustang going back to a 67 and including 2 Fox bodies, and by far the quality of 2004 Cobra surpasses them all. But, lets face it, it is still a Mustang. The car does rattle and hum in weird ways. I was very surprised to see subframe connectors when the car was up on a lift. The exhaust is also a little tame for the car. Invest in an after market exhaust (Steeda makes a really nice one), and go have some fun! Believe me very little on the road will be able to keep up with you.

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  Noticed no recent reviews- thought id add mine! - 2006 Ford Focus
  By Justin - October 22 - 8:50 pm

  Ive owned this vehicle for a year now and bought it used on craigslist and got a great deal on it. The previous owners had all records and maintained it really well with the exception of wearing out the leather in the backseat with their childrens car seats a little. Ive put around 10k miles on it and am currently at 135k. Ive driven it from Atlanta to Key West and all over the mountains of north Georgia and Ive loved every second of it. Ive always been into the appearance of this model and in shopping around noted the recurring problems of interior plastic parts breaking (something mine doesnt suffer from) and electrical/wiring issues. One thing I wish I had been aware of beFORE purchasing this wagon was the issues with the wiring harness in the rear trunk hatch. Its a shame that Ford has not recalled effected models since it seems to be a widespread issue. I managed to rewire mine and all seems well, but what a nightmare it was to do. Advise to anyone thinking about buying one, check and see under the rubber boot that houses the harness to see if the wires have already been replaced... its likely it will need to happen at some point, so be aware of that fact. On long rides Ive been happy with the comfort and level in which you can adjust the drivers seating position. Some complain they find the car uncomfortable, but as the driver I dont. I have had my significant other tell me that on long rides it wasnt super great with comfort for the passenger. For every amenity you get with the price range these sell for, for model anyway, its made me feel a little spoiled. Heated seats, leather (that has held up incredibly well for a now 10 year old car), heated and electric mirrors, etc... all great features. I have also seen in many of these that the coating and labeling on the interior knobs wears off. Mine doesnt suffer from this issue either, and every time Ive cleaned it Ive done taking care to make sure it stays that way. The cargo space is ample, and got even more so once I realized that the backseats fold all the way down after lifting up the bottom of the seat first. My only issue with this the one time Ive needed it was that after remaining in that position for a few days it left some pretty gnarly marks in the leather from where the backs of the seats rested while pulled down - in the end however, it came out and all was well. Also it should be noted that partly why the previous owners opted to sell the car was due to the fact that the back seats dont have headrests. Not having children and rarely carrying more than two adults, this hasnt been an issue for me. Odd that a wagon would not have this included. Gas mileage has been better than advertised despite most of my day to day driving being inner city driving. Very pleased with that. This reminds me however that when I purchased the car the caveat was a new thermostat needed. I took it to my mechanic who then informed and showed me the lengths that Ford went to to save space (and weight) to achieve the fuel economy it does. Some repairs are a bit more complicated (and time consuming) than they might otherwise be with other models. In my case, several other parts had to be removed to get to the thermostat adding to the labor costs. Overall, Im very happy with this car and hope I continue to be as it ages. I intend to keep it around for a while... definitely happy.

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  Improve gas mileage - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By Roy - October 22 - 6:23 am

  Traded In our Windstar for the Freestyle In hopes of better gas mileage. Didnt work. Mixed driving shows 16 mpg. Drivers seating Is cramped. Im 64" and my right knee rests against the console. After 15 minutes or so of driving my right knee Is getting sore. Imagine a long trip.

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  A Great Compact Truck - 1998 Ford Ranger
  By 4x4RangerGuy - October 21 - 2:00 am

  This truck is great! 3.0L V6 is incredibly reliable, and powerful enough for all basic tasks. Off Road package really helps when four wheeling. Front grille looks tough, just like a Ford should be. Rear hops around a little bit, could use a little more weight. 4x4 works seamlessly, but is overcomplicated, expensive to repair, and not incredibly strong. Auto tranny is alright, could be beefed up a little, but it keeps the engine in the right RPM range. Mileage is great with the 3.0, and it is an incredibly reliable little engine. Overall, Great truck!!!

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  97 Ford Taurus trash! - 1997 Ford Taurus
  By ArthurR - October 21 - 2:00 am

  LOOKS ARE DECEIVING! FREEMONT FORD VERY DISHONEST! Have not bought a Ford since! Nice car, BUT transmission goes out at 40K as per transmissions shops used to say it was the #1 car in for a new transmission. Brakes notorious for going out at the same time as well as a # of other expensive mechanical problems. Dealership was very irresponsible and tried to always shrug off warranty responsibilities as well as recall which cost me a 30 day rental car. Stabilizer bars bent and dealer said they would cover it under warranty if their was no sign of them hitting any object. When they realized no sign of them being hit by an accident etc.. they then refused to cover it. I bet FORD is now begging.

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  Simply said, the best car Ive ever owned! - 2004 Ford Crown Victoria
  By mmckimmey - October 20 - 2:21 pm

  I cannot say enough about the Crown Victoria. I bought my 2004 two years ago with 148k on the clock. Since then, the only non-maintenance items Ive had to replace was driveshaft u-joints, and a cooling fan. Today, the car sits at 181,500 miles. This thing can take a serious beating and not even care! Its super comfortable. The ultimate highway car! Crazy amounts of torque! Most passing maneuvers dont even require a down shift. Parts are really really cheap and easy to find. Largest trunk in the universe! Whats not to like? Well the gas mileage is meh, but you should expect that coming into it. Long live the Crown Victoria, its Panther siblings, and the Modular V8!

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  After 6 months still pleased - 2008 Ford Escape
  By Liz - October 20 - 11:33 am

  I bought my 2008 Ford Escape in Feb of this year. I traded in an 2001 2 door Chevy Cavalier for my Escape. At first I was a little hesitant about purchasing a larger vehicle, but I must say after 6 months of drving my Escape, I love it more and more every day. On average I am getting 23.9 milles a gallon(not highway)Highway mileage is around 26 mpg. I have the light sage and its just such a cute car to drive. Its roomy without being overwhelming, and it handles great.

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  Its an ok suv - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By Mark Chambless - October 20 - 10:00 am

  Good body design, but gives alot of mechanical trouble. The ac system is very bad.Also drive shaft troubles.

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  My opinion - 2000 Ford Mustang
  By katwal - October 20 - 10:00 am

  This vehicle is one of the best in my book. You have fun driving it and it is safe. The engine has alot of power even though I am waiting for the 5.0 engines to come out with the new style body. You will enjoy owning one of these vehicles.

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  WOW - 1996 Ford Explorer
  By allenone973 - October 20 - 2:00 am

  I never in a million years thought i would be writing a glowing review of a Ford but here I am! My V8 currently has 189000 on the clock and it has been almost completely trouble free for over 60K miles. Regular tranny service and oil changes, upper and lower ball joints, an idler pulley, brake pads, one rotor, fuel pump (may not have even been bad) and a new set of Continental tires. I have read the 6cyl is crap but the V8 has a great engine/tranny setup. gas mileage is HORRIBLE, i average 14MPG. Avoid the 6, get the 8, you will pass everything but gas stations! Ride is good on smooth roads but if there are bumps in the road you will know it.