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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  Saved My Bacon! - 2006 Ford Escape
  By rmaddox - May 5 - 3:46 pm

  I purchased a used Escape just two months ago, so this wont have a lot of detail. However, it probably saved me from serious injury a few days ago. I was struck while legally crossing an intersection by a man who ran his red light. His Chevy Cavalier was totaled and he hit me on almost directly on my passenger wheel. My entire front has been shifted over and most likely will be totaled out by my insurance. However, from the dash back, it looks completely fine. I sustained a whiplash injury, but very little else. Had I been in my old car, a sporty small coupe, I believe I would have had many more injuries.

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  The Time Has Come - 2005 Ford Mustang
  By ddavis - May 5 - 3:16 pm

  I was born in 1963 - the same year the first Mustang was introduced. My first car was a 1967 Galaxie 500 - I really wanted a Mustang. Since I was 16 Ive watched Mach 1 ads, loved the Cobras, and drooled every time I saw a Shelby. When I saw the 05 for the first time, the chills of history ran through me. I couldnt believe the perfection in the design. Then I heard the GT had 300 HP! I decided then, this would be the year. I got it two days ago. Nothing in my life has so dramatically exceeded my expectations. I am in awe of the people who had the artistic ability to pull the heritage of the Mustang with perfect craft and precision into this one car, truly in awe. Nicely done!

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  Not your old Taurus - 2008 Ford Taurus
  By Gary in WI - May 5 - 12:47 pm

  I purchased a one year old Taurus SEL with leather and the major convenience group (auto climate control, 6 CD changer etc.). Overall, I have been extremely pleased with the car -- absolutely no problems. I have a couple of previous Tauruses, most recently an 06 SEL and there is no comparison to the current version. The older cars were OK, but they were basically appliances to get you from point A to point B. The current version is much more refined, favorably comparing to near-luxury cars such as the Toyota Avalon and for a bargain price! (No kidding, when guests ride in the car, they are surprised to find out its a Taurus).

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  So happy! - 2009 Ford Flex
  By jesscawat - May 5 - 11:46 am

  I love love love my Flex! We were looking for something that would carry more than 4 people comfortably that was not a van or a huge suburban. This was it! Easy access to the 3rd row was a must! And its affordable! The Flex by far out does all the other crossovers.

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  I love it - 2005 Ford Escape
  By Tom - May 5 - 10:51 am

  I drive my escape every day and I just love to get into it. The 5 speed transmission makes it more fun to drive and helps me control my gas mileage more. I drove from NY to Arizone and I was averaging 32 mpg.

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  Not a Bad Truck - 2006 Ford F-150
  By Chris - May 5 - 9:42 am

  I am about to return this vehicle off a lease. I have put 60000km on it. The only thing it has needed was blower motor and a new Ford symbol on the front (from rock and salt). This truck otherwise has been reliable as hell. Although it is very slow off the line. I found it pulled just as hard with the a double snowmobile trailer loaded. Very bad fuel mileage with the trailer on.

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  Glad to own a Freestar with 4.2 litre - 2006 Ford Freestar
  By Tony - May 5 - 12:51 am

  Owning a 98 windstar I had decided to remain with Ford due to the great reliability of the windstar. My Freestar with the 4.2 litre is very powerful! Transmission shifting is much more smooth and improved, the 4 disc brake system is superior to the disc and drum system, the traction control and stability control is excellent in the winter months. I have puchased this vehicle used with 56000 Kilometers and the only issue I presently have is a faulty backup sensor, everything else is peachy. The DVD entertainment is worth a million dollars on those long trips with the kids. The ride is smooth, feels solid and powerful when passing on the freeway. My next vehicle will be a Ford again, the Flex.

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  2006 Ford Freestar Sel 4dr Minivan (4.2L - 2006 Ford Freestar
  By Connie Riley - May 4 - 10:25 pm

  We have 6 grandchildren who travel with us quite frequently. So we have wanted a minivan for quite some time. We purchased this van in January, used w/33,500 mi. and so far it has been great. Very nice van, great exterior, love the Norsea Blue color. I have taken the kids on several outings and trips and theres plenty of room and everyone is comfortable.

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  Disappointed again - 2005 Ford Escape
  By Cheryl - May 4 - 6:38 pm

  Replaced my 2002 Escape at 38K mi. due to too many major repairs (torque converter, manifold, bearings, struts - to name a few) with a 2005 Escape with an extended warranty. After 3 months there was a leak in the gas line. At 60K mi. the torque converter and sunroof motor went up. Now at 65K mi. the ABS sensor went up ($700+ to repair). Sometimes I hear a crunching sound in the rear when I make turns or go over bumps. I have only done street/highway driving. All maintenance has been done on schedule by a Ford dealer. I will not buy another Ford.

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  LUV IT, LUV IT, LUV IT - 2006 Ford Freestyle
  By Freestyle Queen - May 4 - 3:56 pm

  I am a die hard van lover but my beautiful Freestyle has changed my mind! I am thrilled w/ my 05 Freestyle. It is so comfortable, even on long trips. It handles great, I feel very safe in my car whether driving on high speed interstates or just around town. The styling is very sporty and I didnt have to spend a fortune for style, fun and safety. Even my husband & kids love it ~ I no longer drive, as they would say, a clown mobile =:). My daughter (23 yrs old) cant wait to get her hands on the wheel; my husband finds it a pleasant relief from his work truck and my son (26 yrs old) enjoys "borrowing" my Freestyle.