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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  Great vehicle - 2002 Ford Escape
  By subarktika - March 1 - 11:45 pm

  The first thing that impressed us with the Escape was the interior space. Driver and front passenger have lots of leg and head room. Like the way the rear seat cushions can be removed and also like the height of the cargo area. Ours has the No Boundaries Roof Rack which has been great for hauling bikes.

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  Edge Gets Two Thumbs Up - 2008 Ford Edge
  By mlerysk - March 1 - 7:26 pm

  Tested every 08 CUV on the market and bought the Edge. Great 2nd row leg room with easy-to-use recline feature, as well as comfortable seating both front and back. Ridiculously fun to drive, handles well and gives driver an intuitive feel when behind the wheel. Modern styling with a good-looking, rugged-stance. Sync, navigation and Vista Roof options take an already well-designed vehicle to the next level of driver integration. Progressive, comfortable, responsive, solid and tight, the Edge is well priced in its class. A must to compare if youre in the CUV market. The more I drive it, the happier I am to own it. This vehicle grows on you with each passing day.

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  Great Car - 2006 Ford Mustang
  By Mustang Owner 06 - March 1 - 7:59 am

  Ive had my stang for about a year. Living in the north east, its garaged for the winter, but spring is only a month away! I cant wait to park my Jeep and get back out in my Mustang.

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  Not your parents Ford - 2015 Ford Edge
  By Den - February 28 - 7:44 pm

  Loved trying the 2015 Ford Edge but bought a 2016 Ford Edge Sport

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  1999 Mustang GT convertable - 2002 Ford Mustang
  By mac8169 - February 28 - 4:56 pm

  Funest car I have ever driven! Good power while still posessing much comfort and refinement.

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  14 years, going, and going... - 1994 Ford Escort
  By Ivo - February 28 - 4:51 pm

  I got excellent deal on this lease return from Ford dealership, with 45000 miles in 1997. For ten years and 90k I dont think I spent more than $2500 on maintenance and repairs, not more than two of which wouldnt be considered regular wear and tear. Engine still runs smoothly and quietly. I now have to replace the clutch, which I blame mostly on my driving habits (like holding the car still uphill by balancing the clutch, instead of using brakes). I am just reluctant replacing the car, afraid that with a next one, I will pay back for all the good experience I had with this one.

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  Very Happy - 2004 Ford Freestar
  By Bri66 - February 28 - 1:02 am

  We drove last summer to Yellowstone. Handled very well both on side roads and highway. Pushed it hard for several days driving and found it very comfortable to drive.

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  A great surprise - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By rob - February 25 - 1:46 pm

  After 6 months and 12k miles, here are some of my thoughts. Performance is great. Corners well and has impressive acceleration even with half-throttle. Fuel economy has been the biggest surprise - Ford definitely underpromised and overachieved in that category (rated 18/27; I can get about 22/30). Inside, theres very little wind noise, but the stock tires are pretty stiff so road noise can be a nuisance. I like the seats, but some people may find them a bit firm. Even with lots of driving Ive had no issues with reliability - everything just seems to work as it should. I wish I had more room for a detailed review, but heres the main point: I am very glad I decided to buy this car.

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  p71 police interceptor - 1997 Ford Crown Victoria
  By qunicy - February 25 - 2:00 am

  this car is a heck of a lot of fun. if you can get a used police car get one.people wont tailgate you and give you plenty of room on the freeway.police package gives you heavy duty frame,oil and trans coolers, and heavy duty suspension. plus long life silicone hoses.the only drawback is the interior but when you can insert a lincoln ls leather interior.all is good

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  big truck - 2004 Ford Excursion
  By wes88 - February 25 - 2:00 am

  big truck handles like smaller vehicle,plenty of space.