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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  Impressive for the price - 2005 Ford Taurus
  By Pat - March 10 - 2:57 am

  Very roomy, comfortable, solid, quiet ride. Hides the bumps very well and has a sporty exterior look. Handles much better than the reviews Ive read. Im impressed with all the features for the money.

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  2008 Fusion SE 6 cyl - 2008 Ford Fusion
  By Rock - March 9 - 11:40 am

  Great car, love the look and quality. Fun car to drive and we love the satellite radio. Roomy interior and very quite ride. Would highly recommend this vehicle.

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  The Morel Mustangs - 2005 Ford Mustang
  By Eric Morel - March 9 - 3:36 am

  I purchased my first 2005 V6 convertible back in April 2005 when there were very few to be found. I believe this dealer took advantage of that fact. Anyway it was the Windveil Blue with a black top,beautiful!

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  Love It! - 2006 Ford Escape
  By Andrew - March 8 - 3:06 pm

  I have driven an Explorer XLS for 6 years and decided to get something with more gas economy. I have to admit that the ride is superb compared to the 00 Explorer. The size is just right for a car like drive but has dig in and go capability of an SUV. The interior although plain to some, is perfect for me as too much "distraction" stuff is bothersome. I absolutely love it and cant think of a reason why I didnt buy one sooner than I did.

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  Best for your money - 2005 Ford Escape
  By gaa9021 - March 8 - 2:00 am

  With all the extra features and comfort package it feels like Im driving a luxury vehicle without the heavy ticket sale. I highly recommend it for young buyers and those with economic sense.

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  Great little Pony - 2004 Ford Mustang
  By Joe718 - March 8 - 2:00 am

  The new Mustang is a great little car. All around performance,quality, styling, and the way the car is equipped is fantastic. I have had several Mustangs and this is the best overall. I am amazed at the number of people that comment on how great it looks.

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  LAST REAL AMERICAN MUSCLE CAR - 2004 Ford Mustang
  By mike sweeney - March 8 - 2:00 am

  there is nothing built in america that has the solid feel and performance the mustang has. there are 4-cyl turbos that can match its performance but not the feel of a v-8 engine. try driving a mustang with v-8 engine 5-speed trans and traditional rear wheel drive and all front drive sportscars pale in comparison!!!!!!!!

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  Great SUV - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By Indy Explorer fan - March 8 - 2:00 am

  This is my wifes first SUV and she loves it. We looked at many others, but for the price, we couldnt beat the Explorer. The Automatic 4WD works seamlessly on ice, and the leather seats are great for long drives. We went without the 3rd row seat, and boy, are we glad we did. Without kids, we would much rather have the storage space. Our only complaint so far is the fuel door location. Drivers side would be nice. Also a handle for closing the tailgate would come in handy...especially for shorter people.

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  Fun to Drive - 2002 Ford Explorer Sport
  By nerd2z - March 8 - 2:00 am

  Even though it will only hold 2 people in the back seat, there is a ton of room up front and the cargo space is excellent. My dogs have had a blast in the back area! The truck drives very well on the highway and is very comfortable. I wish it got better gas mileage, but it is a truck with a good engine.

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  My First Luxury 4x4 - 2004 Ford F-150
  By Joe Rahn - March 8 - 2:00 am

  very nice interior, excellent handling, and an overall fun truck, I am very happy with Ford,s new design.