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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  Blue Me Away - 2017 Ford Explorer
  By Eric Kniedler - May 14 - 9:11 pm

  Have had the car for a few weeks. Traded in a BMW 535awd for this SUV thinking I was having to give up handling and road response. So far I have not been disappointed in either. The torque and quickness is great, handling is tight and concise and the ability to see your surroundings is great. I actually look forward to driving the car. Love the look of the car and interior layout. Have not taken it for a long road trip yet so this may highlight further pros and cons. One thing I DO NOT have to worry about are those run flat tires. In the BMW I felt I was always on an obstical course to miss pot holes on the highways. It does not take much to pop a tire. My new Explorer eats the road up with great clearance and worry free driving. My only complaint is the fuel mileage. Performs as promised and knew this when I bought it. Overall totally enjoy the car and happy with the purchase. Ford got this one correct.

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  V6, but plenty peppy - 2002 Ford Mustang
  By iwphill - May 14 - 2:00 am

  Bought a 2002 V6 auto a week ago w/just under 25K miles, and its awesome! I didnt need a car that goes 0-60 in 4 seconds, but this car still passes plenty of "sporty" cars without much effort. Plus, its fun to drive and looks good, too. I usually buy imports, and just hope that F.O.R.D. doesnt really stand for Fix Or Repair Daily! So far, it hasnt missed a beat. Smooth ride, and not bad on gas.

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  An honest opinion - 2000 Ford Taurus
  By David S. - May 14 - 2:00 am

  I purchased my Taurus from my father-n- law(hes a used car dealer). To date,and Ive put about 6000 miles on the car...Ive had no problems. The care originally had 69k when purchased by me.

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  Disappointed with Ford Motor Co - 2003 Ford Mustang
  By Jerry Naramore - May 13 - 10:00 am

  Love the car, but after only 318 miles, had to put a new motor in the car. Car was pampered and not driven hard for these 318 miles. The timing slipped and ruined the motor. Now it is not "orginal". Ford did not do anything to help me with this. I bought this car to sit on, now I feel the future value of the car has been diminished because it is not "original".

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  Very good buy - 1995 Ford Taurus
  By Connor54 - May 13 - 2:00 am

  Bought this car two years ago with a salvage title - it had been totaled. Milage was low, the price was right, and I needed a car. I figured Id get a year of commuting out of it. Not only have I gotten my year, this is the car we use as our main vehicle. Our other 1995 Taurus is the wifes car which we bought the year before. Both cars have served well. They are not exciting but we can count on them. Gas Milage is not bad 24 general, 32 highway cruising. The only major expense so far has been the odometers and cables. If the odometer goes - replace the cable at the same time. Also, change transmission fluid at 40,000 or so.

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  Opinion - 2002 Ford Excursion
  By G. Garton - May 13 - 2:00 am

  Great truck, but it has been in the shop twice for electrical breakdowns. First the accelerator went out, then the alternator and batteries. Thank goodness for warranty service, but what a pain. But, it a a glorious vehicle to drive and tow my toys.

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  Very Good so far - 2002 Ford Expedition
  By RockiesExp - May 13 - 2:00 am

  We have had our Expedition for 2 months now and we love it. It rides great over most roads and the only time you can tell its truck origins is when you go over tall bumps. I drove it cross country and it was a dream on the road. The seats are very comfortable for long trips and the cruise control works perfectly. The adjustable pedals really make it easy to find the perfect driving position. Overall this is a great vehicle that we are very happy to own.

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  Worth the Money - 1996 Ford Contour
  By BobMac - May 13 - 2:00 am

  I think that if Ford stuck with this car for as long as Japanese Co. usaully do, then they would have a winner. It takes time to work out gremlins. If the driver follows the owner manual checkups and replaces the timing belt at 60,000, then you may get a good car for the money. Before you buy: check heater switch, battery life, AC life, headlight connectors.

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  not that shabby - 1997 Ford F-150
  By kboz - May 13 - 2:00 am

  not all the F-150s break down. I bought mine used with 90k miles on it, now have it up to 112k. Never have had engine problems. Only things were new tires, passenger side window motor replaced, battery replaced at 100k, taillights replaced. Rides a little rough b/c of worn down suspension. V6 is lousy for quick power needs, go with a V8. Interior is plain, nothing great about it, but for a good truck overall it cant be beat.

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  REVIEW - 1998 Ford F-150
  By HECTOR CASTILLO - May 13 - 2:00 am

  VERY CONFORTABLE BEUTIFUL DESIGN RELIABLE FEW MECHANIC PROBLEMS