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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  Fast Car - 2004 Ford Mustang
  By George38 - May 11 - 10:00 am

  Overall, an excellent car. I am very happy with my Mustang. I love the MACH 460 Audio System! I have put in 2 40 series Flowmasters, and believe me, it would scare anyone that you come across with at the stop light!

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  fun to drive - 2004 Ford Mustang
  By anitagayle - May 11 - 10:00 am

  I wanted a fun car to drive with a 5 speed manual transmission. This car certainly fits the bill. This is my 3rd mustang and I plan to get another one after this one. It has a roomy truck for a sports car. very comfortable seats. Not much leg room in back but plenty in front. Price is right also!

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  Great Car, Great Value - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By Mike B - May 11 - 9:27 am

  I bought the SE V6 new. I wanted a used one freshly off of a lease, but none available. It was a gamble buying the first generation Fusion, but so far, I have had no major issues. Actually, this chassis does have a history, since it is based off of the Mazda 6, which is also a great car. The 220 hp V6 is powerful and responsive. I get 30 mpg driving mostly highway to work (I drive pretty conservative), which is great. The seats are comfortable and supportive for the front passengers. I have put 27,000 miles on this car in about a year (not very proud of that number) due to a long commute and weekend travel. So far, no codes pulled or mechanical issues. Interior trim could be better.

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  Wifes baby - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By EagleOne - May 11 - 4:15 am

  I bought a 2006 Fusion with 12,000 miles on it, has all options except sunroof. This is the first car Ive bought in many years that my wife has fallen in love with. The appearance and comfort are unbelieveable. The V6 engine runs fantastic. We are in love with this car!

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  Fun & Reliable car that looks great! - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By Alex - May 10 - 6:43 pm

  I have had my fusion for 3 years. It has been super reliable. It is fun to drive and fast also. I have gotten a lot of compliments on the look of the car as well. The only thing I have had to replace is the battery. Besides that I change the oil and just put a new set of tires on it. Great car if you take care of it. To address a majority of the negative reviews, if you dont change the fluids at regular intervals and dog the crap out of it, of course its going to break down, just like any other car would. Thanks.

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  U-Bet-Cha! - 2005 Ford Focus
  By Dusty - May 10 - 4:40 pm

  Sporty, Quick and a blast to drive, and handles like it is on a rail! what more can you ask for?

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  Rides like an Escalade - 2010 Ford F-150
  By John Leonard - May 10 - 1:56 pm

  I sold my 2007 Escalade and purchased a 2010 F150 Super Crew Lariat with Nav. F150 is very quiet , tons of room, and very good looking. For a large truck gas mileage is respectable. Better than the Cadillac. I looked at all the big truck makers. Ford wins. Plus they did not take any government money.

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  My crown victoria - 1999 Ford Crown Victoria
  By Mary Ann DeShazer - May 10 - 9:16 am

  The only drawback that I can see with this crown victoria is the trunk space. It is definately too small an area to place much luggage or items that you purchase on shopping trips. (i.e.) you cant put a fold up wheel chair in the trunk.

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  Have you driven a Ford lately! - 2005 Ford F-150
  By sixduces - May 9 - 9:25 am

  I have owned Ford pickups since 1975. Each has been better than the last. I needed a 4 door this time to carry around my grand children. The cab is like a car, roomy and plush. It has given me great service with no need to take it to the shop. Overall, I give it a 9 out of 10

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  07 Sportrac - 2007 Ford Explorer Sport Trac
  By Steve - May 9 - 7:30 am

  Have had the vehicle for a month now and am a big fan. Im 67" and have plenty of room inside. I have the V6, and power is acceptable although it is not the fastest around. Mileage has hovered around 19 mpg in the first 1200 miles in mixed driving I dont have any need to tow anything and the small bed accommodates my need to carry the occasional bulkier item. I did a lot of research prior to purchase, and this vehicle matched my needs at the price I wanted. The XLT Appearance package adds a nicer look with bigger wheels, etc. and is a fun ride.