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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  A/C Problems from day 1 - 2006 Ford F-150
  By Claude - June 22 - 2:06 am

  The AC does not seem to work properly. Checked it out 5 days after delivery and found nothing. I now think that it is the controller for the auto-temp air. The dampers may not work correctly.

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  Not very impressed - 2000 Ford Windstar
  By Not very impressed - June 22 - 2:00 am

  At first I loved the van but then it started. 1st the back speakers started going out. Dealer said the pins just needed buffed. Next, check engine light started coming on & eventually going off. Now it goes on everyday after work. Another known problem w/ no resolution. I still have the speaker issue & 1000 miles after warranty, my trans went costing me $$. Mechanics claimed it was a common error and do not understand why Ford does not cover/recall on the issue.(not big enough issue to recall) I have learned to live with my problems. I am ready to buy a new van. I know my next van will not be a Ford (1st time in 15 years I have not bought Ford)

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  5 years no problems! - 1998 Ford Mustang
  By paulinbaltimore - June 22 - 2:00 am

  When I purchased my mustang in 1997 I was told by many people that I would not be happy owning a Ford. Of course they said found on roadside dead etc. I loved the way the car drove and I six years later still love it. So far the only things I have had to do in six years is change the oil, the tires and the battery. NOTHING has broken, the radio, A/C and top all still work fine as well. Yes, there is some leaking now. Also surpising is my gas milage. Its a 6cyl manual so it should get good milage. It gets GREAT milage. 32 highway 25 city. I could not be happier.

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  Crapshoot - 2003 Ford Windstar
  By MrCool - June 21 - 2:00 am

  This is my second and last Windstar, the first was a 2000 SEL that was plauged with electrical problems. 3 dealers and no one ever solved the problem, so I traded it in for an 02 with only 17500 on it. So far my new 02 SEL has been fine except for one problem with the fan blower. Seems that the A/C system really takes too long to cool the car on 85 plus days. Right now I have my eye on the new Sienna, although I must admit I like the styling of the Windstar over the Sienna. But let me tell you it ends there. The new Sienna will surely rattle the industry in terms of Minivan sales, it should easily knock the Odessy out of first place.

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  me Mustang - 2002 Ford Mustang
  By vesco6 - June 21 - 2:00 am

  a nice over all car. . Somewhat Sparten interior compared to lot of cars, esp from the East. Dated would be a good word. handles well enough for most people. And under power for me, though once at freeway speeds, with a concious effort on the gas you will go.

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  What a steel - 1994 Ford Explorer
  By craiger - June 21 - 2:00 am

  One and only owner. 88000 miles and going. Did all the routine maintenances, but did replaced both radial arm bushings, breaks, shocks and took cared Manual transmission problem a couple of years ago... in addition to the two new batteries and two sets of new tires (one was recalled Firestone). Truck dont always get good grip in the rain. Will keep it for a while longer.

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  Ford Trucks - 1995 Ford F-350
  By DocKristenRohde - June 21 - 2:00 am

  I have had a couple of Ford trucks and have had found them to have chronic transmission problems. Just put a new transmission in my current truck. (1995 Ford F350 4x4 dually diesel

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  taurus - 1998 Ford Taurus
  By crichtn - June 20 - 2:00 am

  Best handling North American car in quite a while. Solid feel throughout cornering and braking, while maintaining a plush ride on the highway.

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  awesome truck - 1994 Ford Ranger
  By maytag - June 20 - 2:00 am

  great truck, could not ask for anything better. Im considering keeping it around instead of trading it in.

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  Pleasant Surprise - 2001 Ford Ranger
  By HKB - June 19 - 2:00 am

  Leased vehicle new in 01, have 14K on it now. No service problems at all. Good dependable truck. Only complaint is highway driving 65-75mph can be a rough ride. Keep both hands on the steering wheel. When hitting rough pavement or taking a slight curve in the highway the truck with drift off and the back with start to fish tail. Highly recommend!