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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  Escape 2003 review - 2003 Ford Escape
  By Mia Z. - July 24 - 4:59 pm

  I love driving my Escape. It is the first vehicle I ever bought so it will always have a special place in my heart. It is a great car that I have used to move twice, haul material from Home Depot and carted my husband and dog around town. It was nice enough that I wasnt embarrassed to valet park at some of Atlantas nicer restaurants.

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  My Escape - 2006 Ford Escape
  By Ken - July 24 - 4:47 pm

  Excellent SUV for the price. Really enjoy riding and driving it. Look forward to taking short and long trips.

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  FORD LIGHTNING - 2002 Ford F-150
  By Luis - July 24 - 9:03 am

  I saw it and i love the truck because it so cool.It has power to beat all the trucks in the world.

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  Great economy car - 1999 Ford Escort
  By MHW814 - July 24 - 8:58 am

  Ive had this car for seven years and have only had to replace brakes and tires and a wiper blade now and then. Its a great car for girls because all of the fluid caps are have labels and the rear seats fold down so you can fit all of your shopping items in the car.

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  Spoiled by my Expedition... - 1998 Ford Expedition
  By ladytrisha - July 24 - 8:07 am

  Ive owned several vehicles from fast, sporty cars such as a Firebird, a convertible Trans Am, and a convertible SS Camaro...down to an everyday grocery getter you guessed it...the Ford Taurus. Ive also owned a Ford F-350 Super Duty Diesel Lariat. I really loved that truck! I never thought Id find another vehicle that I liked as well as our truck until I purchased my Expedition. I absolutely love it. It has that sporty look I love & all the room & comfort we could ask for. When we need the extra room in the back for hauling something large we just take out the third row seat. When our kids have friends over and we go somewhere we have plenty of room and seatbelts for everyone.

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  Love My Car - 2006 Ford Focus
  By Kathy - July 24 - 7:59 am

  I bought my car basically for fuel economy. Now that I have it, I dont think Ill buy anything else. I hope Ford continues to improve the Focus. Its a great little car. Mine is basic, keyless entry, automatic, power options, radio, and a cd player. The only thing I wish it had is cruise control. It handles great and rides smooth. I get about 30 miles to the gallon and with prices today, thats a real plus. I hope to have this little car a long time but when Im ready to trade in, Ill get another Focus.

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  reliable - 1996 Ford F-150
  By goodwrench61 - July 24 - 1:40 am

  This truck has been very reliable for me in the length of time that Ive owned it . Its never left me stranded anywhere. Just recently I completed some extensive work, like all new U joints, front disc rotors and brake pads, front bearings, clutch assembly, new tires interior is in excellent shape. Im the only one ever in it. Oh ya - also replaced bushings in I beam suspension.

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  What Cheryl thinks... - 2003 Ford Thunderbird
  By CHERYL - July 23 - 10:51 pm

  The car is a blast to drive. I still get looks every day. Even by Corvette owners. I have the James Bond 007 version. Only made 700 of them.

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  An Excellent Vehicle - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By Puchie - July 23 - 8:40 pm

  Coming from and SUV this is a truly wonderful ride. There is so much room and comfort and the safety features are great! Kids dont like the mini van as it is for OLD people but I LOVE it

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  Nice Car - 2001 Ford Focus
  By Randy Zick - July 22 - 7:26 pm

  This has been a great car. Dealer had to replace wire harness for the radiator fans, and also had to replace the windshield washer pump. Just had a major wire repair done, something with putting gas to the engine. Good engine, great performance, and nice handling. Still a great car and gets great gas mileage. Love the idea of the side air bags. Just had to replace the freon in the air conditioning system, but could do the myself. Would recommend this car to others.