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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  I want another one, it is so great, fun, - 1999 Ford Ranger
  By sandra - February 20 - 8:06 pm

  The best vehicle Ive owned fun, reliable, economical. People think my ‘99 model is brand new. I spend hours taking care of it and it shows. No big problems. Couldn’t even wear out the tires. I love my Ranger. If not for a disability I wouldnt part with it. Not suitable for wheelchair conversion. Too bad for me.

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  A really nice car - 2004 Ford Taurus
  By Michael - February 20 - 12:33 am

  I found an 04 Taurus SES loaded with sunroof, leather, cd changer and with the Duratec engine.It had 30K miles on it. So far I really like the car. I like the acceleration, the comfort and the looks. So I guess if youre looking for a good car for not much money, this would be a good choice. I would definitely try to find one with the Duratec engine. Ford stopped offering that after 04. So far no problems with it and Im getting 21 MPG in city driving.

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  Thank You SVT - 2007 Ford Shelby GT500
  By Steve - February 19 - 11:26 pm

  Upon hearing the hp rating and performance numbers I expected this car to ride slightly better than a go-kart. I was pleasantly surprised at how smooth the ride was and the "tameness" of 500 horses with normal driving.

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  Bulletproof windshield. - 2000 Ford Focus
  By Keith.o@protonmail.com - February 19 - 4:01 pm

  Ive owned my Focus ZX3 for nearly 7 years. I bought it used with around 110,000 miles on it for $5000 in 2011. It now has around 151,000 miles on it at the date of this review. Ill admit Ive had some brake problems. But Im not so sure I can blame Ford on that, perhaps the criminals werent as clever as they thought and Ford outsmarted them as that emergency brake stopped the car when the brakes totally failed, a plus, in my opinion. Ive never had any problems with the engine, transmission (manuals are great when getting your cars computer hacked might be a downside on the highway, throw it in neutral, problem solved, right?) has never failed, unlike some GM automatics Ive owned ... and the steering is quite precise. I really like how it can accelerate in flat road conditions fairly quickly when shifting properly with high quality tires (Michelin or Bridgestone). However, it can be a bit of a slow one up a high grade road, say I-70 heading towards the Eisenhower Tunnel. But, 4th gear and not pushing the engine is fine, no need to pass anyone except them truckers who should be going slow, you know? All in all, its been a good car. I got my $5000 worth since owning it. I think an upgrade to the 2017 RS model would be worth considering. The gas mileage for me is less than whats advertised, but I use the clutch to slow the car down rather than ride the brakes. I also tend to downshift for acceleration and having a real tachometer is quite helpful to prevent redlining and blowing up the engine. It doesnt leak oil. The air conditioning has never worked though Ive never bothered to get it fixed, it just drags the performance anyways. Having a cabin filter is nice when psychos are spreading chemicals in front of you, just close the windows and push the button. The power steering will still work if there is sabotage, just add that stuff that seals the hose, work your steering wheel a few minutes before driving to get the fluid moving, and drive. The one annoying thing is the check engine light has been on for nearly 4 years now. Good deterrent against would be thieves whove hit the crack pipe too many times. A buy if you can find one. Later haters. I would also add Ford service has been fantastic. The dealership needed a few days to make some repairs that never happen to cars very often (hacked key fob and accelerator cable tampered with which then broke). Though aggravating to be without a running vehicle, they shuttled me to a few key places I had to be at in a brand new Lincoln and picked me up when the car was done with the service. This is as of December, 2017. Thank you again, Ford.

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  Jaw Dropper - 2005 Ford Mustang
  By Denise - February 19 - 10:40 am

  Having had a 2000 Ford Mustang and now a 2005 Mustang GT, the difference is amazing. This car is very powerful, very quiet and handles very well. The redesign made for much more head room, more comfortable seating and lots of leg room!

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  1 of 3 GTS - first in Chicago - 2005 Ford Mustang
  By bill chicago - February 19 - 4:33 am

  Very good car priced right. Looks a lot better in person then seeing it on paper. 300 hp gets it. 5 speed tremendous. Better tires than older Mustangs. Better seating and more room inside then my 2002 GT.

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  Smooth ride - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By Stylie - February 19 - 12:50 am

  I have been quite happy with my Freestyle over the last month. It drives like a car and feels very safe. The 4 wheel independent suspension offers a very smooth ride. Mileage is great. I am impressed with the acceleration and the smooth feel of the CVT. The Freestyle makes a great weekend get away machine!

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  Excellent Vehicle - 2005 Ford Focus
  By bDw - February 18 - 11:34 pm

  This is an excellent vehicle. I LOVE it! It is very fuel efficient ... very good car for a teen because it is very safe. One of the safest cars of the newer model cars. Very good looking as well.

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  Ford Focus - 2004 Ford Focus
  By Jim - February 18 - 11:22 pm

  Our 2004 Ford Focus has been a great dependable car. We enjoy the way it handles and the gas mileage. We will without a doubt be buying another Ford Focus.

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  2003 Explorer - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By Bryce - February 18 - 2:00 am

  We had to decide between the Explorer and Honda Pilot. Such a close race - nearly identical cars. The Explorer won for two reasons - additional options (Eddie Bauer) and dealership support/concern/friendliness. Ford matched the cost of the Pilot so we couldnt refuse. The two vehicles were so close and the Explorer has a conventional spare tire, extra room in the third seat for the kids feet, moon roof, 6 disc CD changer, dual function hatch and two tone paint. Even with 30HP less than the Pilot, it has the same acceleration numbers and better towing capacity.