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:

• 

  Great little truck - 1996 Ford Ranger
  By Mdixon - March 30 - 2:00 am

  This was my first new vehicle. I got it off the lot with 12 miles on it. No real complaints. this truck really is built ford tough. i hit a deer about 2 years ago. Airbag deployed and the fiberglass pieces and lights were all messed up. all messed up. got a new airbag and lights etc and got back on the road. no engine trouble. radiator was well protected. shes getting old and bouncy on bumps now tho, but shes got 170000 miles on it. check engine light has been on since i hit 50,000 miles. needs a $150 replacement sensor or something, but still runs well.

• 

  Got what I paid for - 2001 Ford Taurus
  By Eric9dodge - March 30 - 2:00 am

  This is my 4th Ford. Prior to this, I owned a Bronco, 1997 Thunderbird and a 97 Lincon Mark VIII. The Taurus SEL was a step down from the Lincoln, so I must admit that I thought the interior was rather nice for an entry level car. I was disappointed with the comfort of the front seats(used for long trips). I was also disappointed with the fuel economy. Overall, the car drives very well and has a good deal of power at high rpms, but could use a little more effeciency. I have 30,000 miles now, and I have a strut that went bad, other than that, trouble free.

• 

  Mustang Review - 2002 Ford Mustang
  By Rotax33 - March 30 - 2:00 am

  The Mustang Gt is a must have vehicle. Its 260 hp engine will wake up the kid in you quick. Great throttle response, speed and looks.

• 

  PROBLEMS - 2004 Ford Ranger
  By REIDA - March 30 - 2:00 am

  MY FIRST FORD RANGER AND IM NOT TOTALLY SATISFIED. I LOVE THE LOOKS AND THE COMFORT, BUT READY TO GO!! AT 6,OOO MILES THE CLAMPS ON RADIATOR BROKE. LOST HALF MY FLUID ON LABOR DAY WEEKEND. THEN THE MAIN OIL SEAL WAS LEAKING. HAD TO REPLACE. NOW THE REAR DOOR RATTLES. SOMETIMES THE TRANS SLIPS. MAY NOT BUY AGAIN. FUEL ECONOMY WAS DECEIVING. ROUGH.

• 

  i love my taurus - 1993 Ford Taurus
  By jennco - March 30 - 2:00 am

  My taurus maybe 10 yrs old but its still as nice as it was the day I got it. My gradparents bought one new in 89. I always wanted one since, now I do and it hasnt disapointed me. My husband has a Saturn coupe and hes so impressed with mine. He wants one. I wanted to write this review about my Taurus because I hear people say that their not good cars. I cant speak for the new Taurus because I dont have one, and maybe their not as good as the old ones, but to say that they are no good is not true. Im living proof, I love my 93 Taurus and I will tell people what a good car it is.

• 

  Freestyle Fills a Niche - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By SUVcritic - March 29 - 5:10 am

  We decided to purchase the Freestyle after looking at several different makes and models. After 4 months of ownership, I still marvel at the fantastic design. Its roomy enough for adults yet accessible by children. The Limited model is chock full of all the best standard equipment, and it just gets better when you add options. We specifically chose black interior to avoid the glare issues frequently described on this review site, and have had no problems at all. The lack of seat bolsters is a plus in my opinion, and I cant say enough good about the customizable seating. Ive never wanted to be an SUV or minivan driver, but this interior and exterior design makes it easy.

• 

  2000 Taurus Se - 2000 Ford Taurus
  By Heidi76 - March 29 - 2:00 am

  I love this car. It is a little sporty, has a lot of room and handles well.

• 

  Ecstatic Ford Lover - 2005 Ford Escape
  By Bridgitte. - March 28 - 10:00 am

  I love my new SUV. I am a very tall person so the head room is beyond exceptional. I would recommend this vehicle to anyone with small children. My daughter loves the back seat. She can see everything now.

• 

  Among the best compact SUVs - 2005 Ford Escape
  By CarnutWZ - March 28 - 10:00 am

  So far this vehicle has suprised me since day 1. The ride is firm but never jarring and the V6 really moves the SUV with some authority. Highway cruising is a breeze as the engine loafs at 2500RPM at 80MPH. The ride comfort on moderatley smooth roads comes at the expense of a little body lean in quick turns.. although handling is ultimately secure if your not trying to zip around a corner at excessive speed. I test drove a few competitors and found they came up short in more areas. Cargo space is versatile and just big enough for my family and luggage.(I have one child). There is no wonder why Escape is the best selling small SUV. With the HEV coming..there is more of a reason to buy

• 

  What about the brakes! - 1998 Ford Taurus
  By jeepstr9 - March 28 - 2:00 am

  I have owned my Taurus for about 4 years now. I really cant complain expect for a couple of things. First and foremost are the brakes! Numerous problems with them. Second would be service from dealerships. Although not directly related to the vehicle, good service may make the diffrence of buying a from a certain maker or not.