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 car - 1999 Ford Taurus
  By BBrian - September 17 - 2:00 am

  I bought the car with 20,000 miles and about 1 year old. The car has been very reliable-no problems other than routine maintenance. Good riding car, nice power and handling. Very comfortable interior. I would buy this car again.

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  Again? No, thanks. - 2001 Ford Explorer Sport
  By jehlers - September 15 - 5:50 am

  I was cruising through one on the weekend, and the Explorer Sport caught my eye. Not to mention, I loved the two door look and it was black! Ive always wanted a black vehicle. Another bonus, it had a sunroof, luggage rack and running boards. I dont think I couldve asked for anything else. It had $10,900 on the windshield and I got it for $9,400 with only 56K on it. I got a pretty good deal. Anyway, its not mid-July and I hate the gas mileage. Ive already replaced the air intake control valve ($225 w/ labor) and now it clicks loudly when I turn my wheels. Someone mentioned the hub bearings. I think my next car will be a Honda, Nissan or Toyota. Thats what I wanted originally.

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  My review - 2005 Ford F-150
  By David - September 15 - 5:16 am

  I waited especially for this model year to buy the F-150. I paid just under $21k for mine. Of all the trucks I have driven, this one ranks up there in ride quality. The only downside is the power isnt where I want it to be. That will change with some upgrades soon.

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  2001 F-150 Lariat 5.4L - 2001 Ford F-150
  By michael G - September 15 - 2:00 am

  great truck, awsome power! Looks great with 20" rims!!! Handles great, looks great!

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  SC - 1995 Ford Thunderbird
  By miclub7 - September 15 - 2:00 am

  Too many easily prevented problems from manufactuer. Head gaskets are a huge problem along with skrawny motor mounts that couldnt even support torque for a 4 cylinder. Honestly the problems are a pitty.

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  good car - 2003 Ford Escort
  By boles - September 15 - 2:00 am

  this is a surprising car if you dont think about mercedes. It does things quite well and we got a loaded model for $11607 with power windows, locks, CD, Tilt and remote. And i think it drives well, this is a good car for young people if you want to get the most car for the least cash.

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  Mostly Happy--So far! - 2002 Ford Expedition
  By radiogeek - September 15 - 2:00 am

  Pros: One of the best vehicles Ive driven. Comfortable for both front and 2nd row seats (little tight for third row passengers). Cons: For a new truck, I think three visits to the dealer for warranty work is too much. 1. In winter, front driver window would take several times of pressing the down button before it would open. 2. Solenoid needed replacing. 3. With 16,000 miles, one of the tires blew. Other than those three issues, I couldnt be happier.

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  Woodys F150S/B review - 2000 Ford F-150
  By Woodie - September 14 - 2:00 am

  I purchased this pickup hoping to get at least 20 MPG and this has been a disappoinment. The best I have ever gotten is 18 MPG going downhill. Other than that it has been a great truck. I like the handling and its performance. Has plenty of power for what I need. Just wish it got better mileage.

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  Windstar SEL 2001 - 2001 Ford Windstar
  By Wonderman - September 13 - 2:00 am

  This has been a great vehicle. A little short on power and inside conveniences but very reliable and great gas mileage. Just bought a 2003 as a matter of fact.

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  Love my truck!!! - 2003 Ford Ranger
  By peejay - September 13 - 2:00 am

  I traded in a 1990 Ford Ranger 4x4. This truck seems to be much wider then my previous truck. I have never had an automatic before, so it has been hard getting used to that. If I had it to go over again, I would buy a manual transmission. Other then that, it is a great truck.