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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  Excellent Family Car - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By Alex - March 22 - 7:03 pm

  It is an excellent car to take my family and relatives to go out or even on a short trip when they are in town because of its capacity for 7 passengers plus luggage.

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  back to Fords - 2004 Ford F-150
  By samson - March 22 - 6:49 pm

  Recently purchased at 1 month, completely satisfied with purchase over Chevy Suburban. Reliable and decent fuel mileage for a truck. I use all my vehicles for intended usage. I may own a truck, however I use it to transport goods from one place to another.

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  Best truck I have ever known - 1995 Ford Ranger
  By Matt - March 21 - 2:59 pm

  Put 110K miles on it over 5 years and never had a problem. Most of the miles were city miles and the clutch wore out at 165K. The mechanic did a compression check and said it could easily go another 50K before an overhaul. There were some off-road and harsh miles in there too. The 4 cylinder was always great on gas (I routinely averaged about 29 mpg) and was adequate to keep up with traffic but would not win a drag race.

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  great truck - 2005 Ford F-150
  By great truck - March 21 - 12:18 am

  Bought the truck a year ago, STX model with no back seat or carpet. Surprisingly, plenty of room with 40/20/40 split. Drove the truck 65000 miles in one year, not a single problem, just maintenance and brakes. Although I do get annoyed with front brake dust on wheels. 4WD works great in snow, nice turning and ride for 4.6 V8. towed 2 cords wood, struggled very little. Nice roomy bed, well designed interior. Seats do stain very easily, I recommend covering them as soon as you buy the truck.

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  Excellent - 2007 Ford Freestyle
  By E.Ruppert - March 21 - 12:02 am

  The Freestyle has been the most pleasing vehicle I have ever owned. I can not find anything to complain about. I have been congratulated by other Freestyle owners for purchasing a vehicle they also love to drive. I feel like I belong to an exclusive club.

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  Glad I went American for a change - 2007 Ford F-150
  By Chris - March 20 - 11:05 pm

  I bought this truck needing a tough son of a gun to haul thousands of pounds of product on long distance trips for my business and this truck fits the bill. My F-150 always gets great comments from people who love its looks. I just love it because it get the job done. I even slept in it one night because I couldnt find a hotel and it was a good night sleep at the secured rest stop. I wouldnt change much, but hopefully Ford will continue to improve on this nice looking, tough truck.

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  2007 Ranger XLT - 2007 Ford Ranger
  By Bill Porter - March 20 - 8:59 pm

  This is my second Ranger and I am very pleased with my past experience (1993) and my recent purchase. These trucks are tough and well built. My 93 never left me beside the road. I gave it to a family member and they are still driving it every day. Thanks Ford, I love my Ranger!

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  Worth every penny. - 2007 Ford F-150
  By Iustitia - March 20 - 6:47 pm

  Vehicle perfect for the quality and price. The interior very spacious and comfortable. The exterior line is appealing and the truck runs smoothly. Gas is as expected.

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  Huge and beautiful - 2005 Ford Excursion
  By Mike - March 20 - 1:29 pm

  I bought my Excursion a year ago and I never have a problem with it. Most important for me is that my kids love it. I wish they will continue to make them. Excursions are gorgeous and very comfortable.

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  Best in class! - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By Lary Lund - March 20 - 11:00 am

  We bought a V6 SE at first then exchanged 2 days later for SEL I researched and found for around $900, which is nothing when buying a new car, you can step up to SEL which will give you 17" wheels, auto climate control with controls on steering wheel, foglamps, automatic headlights, puddle lamps, way nicer interior and dash trim, chrome accents, compass, auto dimming heated mirrors, and much much more. Car has amazing power, I find it hard not to speed on interstates without realizing it. Fit and finish are on par with any import car, very quiet ride and upscale materials used throughout. Styling really needs the foglamps to complete the look. You cant go wrong with this car.