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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  05 Escape Hybrid - 2005 Ford Escape
  By 5hybrid - January 25 - 10:19 am

  Been a great vehicle. Much better than the 04 Escape I replaced it with. No problems so far. Going to purchase a second one for my daughter.

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  My F150 - 2004 Ford F-150
  By woriax - January 25 - 8:46 am

  Awesome!!! Love my F150 cause its strong and reliable. I had a defective gas lid, but other than that, it has been an awesome vehicle. Tows stuff amazingly easy and is so comfortable cruising on highways at 83. I get good gas mileage for a huge vehicle as well... like 20-22 on the highway. If I had it to do over again, I would get the same vehicle, time and time over... Forget it Chevy and Dodge. This is the truck! Titan what??? Maybe in japan that truck would get some attention.

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  Well built American car - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By Scott - January 25 - 5:40 am

  Traded in a 2003 Toyota Camry SE V6. The Fusion has more power and luxury items and it appears to be very well put together. Pleasantly surprised with this vehicle. Adios Toyota!

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  F-150 SuperCrew Lariat 4x4 - 2004 Ford F-150
  By aggiedoc - January 25 - 2:00 am

  This is the best pickup I have ever owned. It is rock-solid. The interior is like a luxury care. Great job Ford!

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  Awesome Truck - 2004 Ford F-150
  By SilvrDrgn - January 25 - 2:00 am

  This is my 5th F-150, and it is the best one ever!

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  fun - 2004 Ford F-150
  By eryk thomas - January 25 - 2:00 am

  very fun to drive makes you feel like a kid

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  Number 1 SUV made! - 2000 Ford Expedition
  By tj - January 24 - 4:07 pm

  We love our truck. Fits the whole family and the dog. Fun to drive!

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  This is a big step up... - 2003 Ford Expedition
  By FlaGator - January 24 - 10:00 am

  This truck is a lot better than its predecessor. The improved styling is really nice. The interior comfort has really been increased and it is a lot more functional.

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  Taurus SE - Fine Car! - 2002 Ford Taurus
  By Band Man - January 24 - 10:00 am

  We recently replaced our 1997 Escort with a 2002 Taurus SE. We love the features, the color (true blue), and ride. Lots of room inside. We also received a free bottle of touch-up paint in the mail via myford.com - that was a nice surprise!

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  GREAT FUN AT LOW COST - 2003 Ford Focus
  By 1BadEgg - January 24 - 10:00 am

  Couldnt be happier. Lots of car for the money. Got a ZX3 Premium for mid 13s. Lots of room for a compact, Zetec engine with a 5 speed is a must. Have never been in a position where I was underpowered. Ride is good, a little noise, but acceptable. Seat height and wheel up/down/in/out option is great.