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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  Fordisms - 2005 Ford Explorer
  By HD - February 27 - 11:20 am

  Nice truck overall, nice ride, quiet cab, good handling performance, great power, acceptable fit & finish. Many "Fordisms", however, i.e. shifter on the column, fixed external wire antenna, truck like passenger seats, class II hitch, lousy radio, aesthetically challenged control panel. Minor issues if remedied would go a long way and bring the truck to the next level. Buy it to fulfill your basic transportation needs.

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  electronic problems - 2013 Ford C-Max Hybrid
  By opallongtail - February 27 - 3:48 am

  After less than 3000 miles we had problems with the "entertainment system" and the air conditioning. The repairs took 10 days, the AC compressor had to be replaced. Took it in for servicing after 5000 miles, including 2 recalls it had. After 500 more miles we had electronic problems again. The external sensors died, the entertainment went out again. The AC made more noise than usual. We are thinking we have bought a lemon! We like the way it drives and are satisfied with 40 mpg, and the comfort is good, but we cant trust it. We may have to use the "lemon law". Its back in the shop today.

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  My Back Hurts - 2016 Ford Explorer
  By Joe - February 27 - 3:47 am

  The "drivers seat is a nightmare" compared to sitting in my 2010 model. It is comparable to sitting on a wooden box and I am uncomfortable even on short drives. The adjustments do not help. The seat cushion is about 6 inches to short which leaves my legs in the air and puts pressure on my back. I feel discomfort almost immediately. What a shame that somebody thought it was a good idea to ruin the excitement of having a new car. I dont even care about the other options. I cant get past how uncomfortable it is. What a mistake.

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  Best truck - 2004 Ford F-150
  By Brent Champion - February 27 - 2:00 am

  Best truck I have had, the best Veh. i have had to date.

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  Opinion of the new Ford F150 - 2004 Ford F-150
  By Zane Siminoe - February 27 - 2:00 am

  We have driven Fords for years. The new 2004 seems to have gone backwards as far as interior design comfort. The back seats are very uncomfortable for an adult. Location of cupholders and info such as outside temp indicator is difficult to see. The new box is too deep, making it difficult to retrieve items without opening the tailgate.

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  it runs like hell - 2004 Ford F-150
  By joey l - February 27 - 2:00 am

  this truck is so cool that i woluden,t trade it for no other sport car or truck

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  Usefull and comfy - 2003 Ford Explorer Sport Trac
  By nyrican26 - February 27 - 2:00 am

  The Sport Trac fit perfect with my needs. The comfort and space of a SUV with a bed big enough to carry anything I want.

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  Drove 200 miles just to get it! - 2004 Ford Focus
  By yzassandy82 - February 27 - 2:00 am

  I am absolutely in love with this car! I had to drive 200 miles to get it, since Villa Ford didnt want to do a dealer trade(dont buy from them), but it was well worth it. The drive up from Anaheim to Santa Maria was relaxing. To add to my satisfaction the car was washed and ready to go when I arrived. My ZX5 is charcoal grey w/ the 2.3L PZEV, a/t and everything else but leather(since the premium cloth is excellent). I traded in an 03 Mustang V6 with no regrets! It provides excellent handling, a smooth ride, and ample interior room. The 25% insurance savings helped too! Arguably one of the best Fords, make that CARS, on the road.

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  ford - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By TonyD - February 27 - 2:00 am

  The ride is fanatastic. Prior SUV was a Jeep Grand Cherokee, it rode like a truck with bricks for shock absorbers.

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  Mustang GT 40th Anniversary Edition - 2004 Ford Mustang
  By grannieannie - February 27 - 2:00 am

  Absolutely love this car. Wish FORD would get a better interior panel package. Same pkg has been used for too many years. Heres a hint FORD: look inside a NISSAN. Instrument panel, dash is fully loaded not a plain Jane. For such a beautiful exterior as Mustang, should be total work of art.