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 Great Value - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By Donna (Dallas, TX) - June 8 - 8:53 pm

  I was very skeptical about owning a Ford due to all the concerns about reliability and depreciation. The newly redesigned Explorer definitely proved me wrong. This vehicle is a very good value for its price. Its not fancy, but very utilitarian (as an SUV should be). The fuel economy is actually not too bad for its size (I got 20.5 hwy and 15 local). Loved all the different compartments in the cargo area. Ride is somewhat truck-like but seats were comfortable and this was our "go to" roadtrip car. Didnt have too many problems with it except for the recall about the hatch (which was noisy over large bumps). Exterior clear gloss paint started fading around the windows after 5 years.

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  better then expected. - 2004 Ford Focus
  By jdft - June 8 - 10:00 am

  i was expecting to settle for a plain car, due to my financial limits. but this 2.3liter engine is very fast. it has more horsepower then my huge (in comparison) sable wagon had. the only areas of concern is lower gas mileage then expected, but perhaps that is because i like to drive it hard. the a/c is weak and blow dust and leaf debris thru the vents. love the new stereo system that lets me see title of song playing.

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  A Good Sport - 1996 Ford Explorer
  By TIMDOGG - June 8 - 2:00 am

  This has been one of the best vehicles I have owned. Bought in 3/99 with about 20000 miles now has 84000 and havent had any major problems.

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  2000 Ford XLS - 2000 Ford Explorer
  By P.L. Eased - June 8 - 2:00 am

  Overall pleased with FordXLS performance. Rides somewhat hard.Overall handles well. Steering somewhat over sensitive giving a truck- like response. Had series of problems with electrical system governing dash warning lights,( ABS, Air bag and engine). Took World technicians three extended repair visits to finally solve problem. Finish on one of luggage racks excessively worn. Ford is hedging on repairing/replacing.Reported prior to warranty expiration.

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  the spec is great - 1996 Ford Aspire
  By Linda Fish - June 8 - 2:00 am

  this car is the greatest for gas mileage

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  Overall Average Reliability - 1993 Ford Explorer
  By hockey_fan28 - June 8 - 2:00 am

  A pretty good vehicle overall, but does show signs of age after 7 years old. Engine power is not great, but its enjoyable to ride in.

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  It is my BABY - 1993 Ford Mustang
  By PonyBabe93 - June 8 - 2:00 am

  Since it has been taken good care of, this is an excellent car, especially for a teenager like myself. No macho v8 gas-guzzling speeding ticket-causing engine, but its still stylin. This car turns heads like crazy, and is hella fun to drive. The wiring could have been designed a little better, my automatic windows, locks, and brakelights are crapping out on me. Just the minor stuff needs attention. The acceleration SUCKS, but its pretty okay for a four-banger. Excellent car for cruisin for chicks/dudes whatever. I LOVE MY BABY

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  A Ranger named Pokey - 1997 Ford Ranger
  By specialtychem - June 8 - 2:00 am

  I had a bad problem with the heater blend door when I first purchased my Ranger, but I engineered a repair for it that saved me close to $600 over the dealer charge. That is the good thing about the Ranger: it is fairly easy for a competent shade tree mechanic to work on. The basic vehicle is fairly bullet- proof and simple. The gas mileage is only so-so considering the extremely low level of performance. You time this Ranger with a calendar, not a stopwatch! Other than the lack of power, I have really enjoyed my little Ranger. My son will begin to drive soon and it will make an ideal starter vehicle for him.

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  happy costumer - 2002 Ford Taurus
  By Judas and Moanni - June 8 - 2:00 am

  This vehicle is a great vehicle for a small family. It is descent in comfort and great in look. Though it has quite a way to go on fuel economy. As far as power this vehicle does not deliver power, unless it is on the freeway. It is calm and relaxing car, if u have the patience, and time to view scenery this is a good car.

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  Im VERY satisfied - 2006 Ford Explorer
  By Lance V - June 7 - 8:06 am

  I owned a 2000 Explorer and I expected the 2006 to be somewhat similar but I was wrong. The 2006 is light years ahead. This vehicle has all the comfort you could ask for with more power than you can imagine.