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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  Double edge sword - 2000 Ford Taurus
  By marylee - June 19 - 2:00 am

  I bought this car on a lease in the first year of ownership I had it in the shop 5 times for the valve clanking. and horrific gas milage. Well I fianally gave up when they kept telling me there was nothing wrong with the car. My lease is up and being 15k over the lease allowance - I will buy the car out right. I dont want another Ford this was my second. The saddest thing is it is the most comfortable car I could ask for and the safty features are great. Due I sacrifies gas gussling and clanking for cumfort?

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  Great shaggin wagon! - 1998 Ford Windstar
  By Hugh Jass - June 19 - 2:00 am

  This car has been so good to me. I got it from my mom, because she got a new car, and it has only been in the shop once (fender bender). I love to drive, and my freinds love to ride in it when I am driving. It has been all over the country, and is always reliable.

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  mechanical disaster - 1999 Ford Windstar
  By Paul Cocksedge - June 18 - 2:00 am

  I have owned two Windstars, a 1995 and 1999. Both have had major mechanical problems engine blew up in the 1995 van, the 1999 van has had the front end replaced, the transmisson rebuilt, and a multitude of other problems. Both vans were bought because of the functionality of the vehicle to service familly needs. Never again. Ford sells junk!!!!!!

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  Best Top Down fun for the price - 2002 Ford Mustang
  By Damian A. Durrant - June 18 - 2:00 am

  You cannot get more fun in a car for under $25K. Sticks to the road, just enough torque to feel racy, and a great sound system, with a muscular, punchy styling. This car is solid and remains tight. One exception: squeeky windows that the dealer fixed. But not a single other problem since October 01. Essentially, Ford focused on the things a buyer like me wants, so there may be some paint runs under the trunk, but who cares? Do I wish it had about 40 more horsepower? Yes, its not quite as fast as its looks suggest, but that is being picky. Buy the GT for a few grand more if that is your concern. Overall, a surprisingly great buy.

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  Love My Car - 1995 Ford Escort
  By Alyssa - June 18 - 2:00 am

  Ilove this car. It is my favorite car that I have ever owned. As a matter of fact I plan to trade it in the future but only for another one like it except newer with lower miles.

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  Ford Crown Vic. - 1996 Ford Crown Victoria
  By Bruce Stutson - June 17 - 10:00 am

  Excellent car. No problems at all.

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  It was a good buy - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By CMM - June 17 - 2:00 am

  This vehicle is much nicer than my previous 98 XLT. Its roomier, quieter (though still loud), and the 3rd row seating is great when travelling with a crowd. I have the 6-cylinder engine and the acceleration is fine for how I drive the car. The gas mileage has been less than what I expected (around 15mpg, 18 if Im driving on the highway). Overall, it is a definite upgrade from the previous version but is still somewhat loud and drives, for lack of a better term, more like a truck compared to other (higher-priced) vehicles in its class that I test drove. If you need space, and want a mini-SUV, then you should definitely test drive this vehicle.

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  Focus is Fun - 2001 Ford Focus
  By Trainer15 - June 17 - 2:00 am

  Very satisfied with this vehicle. Formerly owned a 1990 acura integra and drove it until 130K miles ended its life. The Acura was fun to drive and I didnt think this little Ford could even come close but I was wrong. Handles incredibly, very responsive for a compact car, great sound system, very roomy. One thing I find disappointing are the front seats, they are uncomfortable on long trips.

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  ZTS - Great looking car - 2002 Ford Focus
  By Nodriveslow - June 17 - 2:00 am

  I recently traded in my 2001 ZX3 for the ZTS. The ZTS has the automatic even though the heading says manual. Anyway, after driving the ZX3 I am pretty familiar with the Focus. The 2002 ZTS seems for the short time that Ive owned it, to be a better car. It is quieter, rides smoother (even though same wheelbase and tires)and the looks are tough to beat. One option that I have, that Ford does not do enough advertising for, is the Traction Control/Anti-Skid device. The biggest asset of this option, is the 4-wheel disc brakes. That is a big plus in the braking department. All in all it is a nice car, and with the $1,500 rebate, almost unbeatable in price.

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  Mustang GT a Real Pleaser - 2002 Ford Mustang
  By I Mike - June 17 - 2:00 am

  The Mustang GT is a real head turner. The acceleration and handling are outstanding and the Mach 460 stereo system rocks. The car is surprisingly refined for a rear drive muscle car and the quality seems to be very good. I would recommend this car to anyone whom wants a sporty, agressively styled car with the retro look and personality of a sixties musclecar.