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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  Reliability 100% - 1998 Ford F-150
  By Zowy - May 27 - 12:08 am

  Its all about reliability. Powerful at low speed. So much torque. Awesome 4x4. Large cargo area. Not so much repair cost. Very easy to find out used parts. VERY Reliable. This is my second F150. For sure will have it for many years.

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  BIG MISTAKE!! - 2009 Ford Flex
  By Tim Williams - May 26 - 10:19 pm

  Wanted to buy American and with the problems with Chysler & GMC we went for a ford. I wanted a Explorer but needed better milage so with really looking at any vehicals we bought the Flex. Traded my 2005 JGC. 8 days old and my check engine light came on it was only a sensor but it was in the shop for 3 days because the wrong part was ordered and I had to wait until Monday. 33 days old and my anti-brake came light on. Dealer had it for 4 days and could not find anything wrong. Reset the light & gave it back. We are suppose to drive it to Iowa for a family reunion but we are going to rent a vehicle because we dont trust it. My sister got a Traverse and is rubbing it in. Kicking my-self......

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  This pony wont quit - 1998 Ford Escort
  By Dennis - May 26 - 9:22 pm

  I have put on 40,000 miles after the first owners 206,000 miles. The engine still runs perfectly with surprising mileage --30-32 mpg in my daily 45 mile commute through and around Detroit and up to 40 mpg in slower highway driving. The body has not a squeak or rattle. Snow traction is great. Ive driven through a foot of snow without any problem other than ice getting jammed in the suspension. The AC failed last year estimates were for more than I paid for the car so I am living with that. I replaced rear struts at about 230,000 miles. Looking ahead, I see only months left on the clutch and 3rd gear is down to a nub so I have to decide soon whether to see if I can get another 200k.

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  I like it - 2009 Ford Escape
  By edm - May 26 - 8:27 pm

  Replaced my old F150 with this. I was surprised at how smooth it drives. The clutch does take some getting used to. Been getting 29.5 mpg on highway. Goes up the mountain roads pretty good. Full coverage insurance was cheap, so must be safe? Ive only driven it about 1500 miles but everything works great.

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  My personal Limo - 2009 Ford Flex
  By JA - May 26 - 7:12 pm

  This vehicle drives like a charm. My Wife and Kids love it. So far we have averaged 22.2 MPG combined.

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  Get it! And have some fun! - 2007 Ford Mustang
  By brent labeau - May 26 - 5:57 pm

  What a great car. If ford had been making these cars 10 years ago they wouldnt be in the trouble there in. Every one needs a convertible, this is a great one. wish it had a little more horse power, but if it did, I wish it had even more.

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  Oh I love this Car - 2007 Ford Five Hundred
  By Marilyn - May 26 - 5:40 pm

  I test drove Honda Accord, Toyota Camary, Ford Fusion and even a Lexus. I couldnt seem to find one that I felt like driving. The 500 did it. At first it didnt turn my head for looks but oh my, I drove it and was in love. I do prefer the understated but rich look of the interior and exterior. I am just so happy that when stop at a light there isnt 10 other cars just like mine. I didnt think about that at the time I was looking for a car. I am getting 18 MPG in town. No long trips yet. Everyone loves the huge trunk. I love the comfort and style.

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  Good Buy - 2009 Ford Fusion
  By SK - May 26 - 5:20 pm

  I switched to Ford since they didnt take bailout money and I am happy so far. The engine is noisy when accelerating but smooth on the highway. It seems like 1st gear is too low since it shifts to 2nd at about 10 MPH in normal driving. Gas mileage has averaged 22.5 in mixed driving. My kids like the ambient interior lighting, moonroof, and sirius radio. The maintenance manual shows oil changes every 7,500 miles which is more convenient than 3,000. This is one of the best rated american cars for reliability so I am looking forward to years of hassle free driving

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  Best wagon I have owned - 1998 Ford Taurus
  By Rondo - May 26 - 3:58 pm

  Bought this wagon new and would buy the same wagon new today. This vehicle has really been super. Dislike selling it at this time with only 73k on it, but bought a new Mecury Sable. Gets great gas mileage, rides and drives very well, and has lots of room for people or various items. The grandkids love the rear seat. Love the color too, silver, which doesnt show the dirt. All in all, Ford built this wagon exceptionally. Someone is going to get s super wagon in this area....

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  I have been converted - 2007 Ford Fusion
  By Jim - May 26 - 3:01 pm

  My Chevy Cavalier was on her last legs, and I was looking for upgrades, with an emphasis on price, safety, and fuel economy. I looked all over, and my wife dragged me (kicking and screaming) to the Ford dealer. I test drove the Fusion and instantly knew this was what I wanted. Good mpg, very comfortable and roomy, though those who are 6 or taller with long torsos may find head room a bit tight. After about 40,000 miles, no problems, averaging 27-30 mpg in mixed driving. 4 cyl a bit whiney but what ones arent? Ford has really gotten their act together, and the Fusion is great proof of this.