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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  It is ok - 2003 Ford Windstar
  By phrap - April 19 - 2:00 am

  Good paint and seats electrical snafus and crummy tires

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  2001 4dr 4WD SOHC - 2001 Ford Ranger
  By jls - April 18 - 2:00 am

  So far 26,000 miles, and no mechanical problems except for a emission sensor which was covered under warrenty. Problems: should have a bigger gas tank. M/G could always be better (18 to 19 typically). Plenty of power for hualing my heavy boat.

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  not for up north - 1997 Ford Mustang
  By erin - April 18 - 2:00 am

  I love it, its my baby. Although I recommend that if you live up north in the snow do NOT by this car unless you want frequent heart attacks. It slides and is uncontrollable. Its also skids a lot in the rain so be careful. Definitely a car meant for sunny days. Found rust starting to build in cars structure. Fun to drive though during the summer.

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  Ford Explorer - 2000 Ford Explorer
  By John J. Smith - April 18 - 2:00 am

  I normly by a new vehical every couple years but I enjoy this explorer to much to get rid of it. Its ride on the highway is very good,off road is rough.Driving this in the winter is great. The automatic 4 wheel drive was a great invention.

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  Had it for 12 years and still enjoy it - 1991 Ford Explorer
  By rrenner - April 16 - 2:00 am

  I bought this car new in 1991 and it has served us well since then. Its been up and down the east coast twice and used virtually every day since it was new. After some initial problems with bushings - repaired under warranty - it has been remarkably trouble- free. Replaced A/C after 5 years. With a 5- speed, its still fun to drive. Gas gauge has been broken for w few years I just reset the trip meter. The center armrest broke recently - a common problem. I replaced it with a good match. I want a new car, but will miss this one.

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  never misses a beat - 1997 Ford Contour
  By HelenFelice - April 15 - 2:00 am

  I purchased 97 GL sport 5 speed. this car is excellent in the snow, climbs mountains with ease and is definitely fun to drive. I average 28/30 mpg which makes my compute of 120 miles a day a breeze. I just replaced the clutch at 120,000....it starts without a problem and has been very reliable. I love being able to keep up with the "big dogs"

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  My F1504x4 - 1999 Ford F-150
  By BYGBRI - April 15 - 2:00 am

  As of Apr. 15, 2003 the following have been repaired/replaced on my 5.4L, 4x4, 4R100(E4OD) trans: 1) Passenger side head gasket. 2) Rear window seal has been replaced. 3) 1st trans rebuild at 30k miles. 4) 2nd trans rebuil at 56k miles.

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  1996 Ford Thunderbird - 1996 Ford Thunderbird
  By bm4751 - April 15 - 2:00 am

  I have had this car for over seven years and all I have put in it is a battery and new tires.It is a very dependable car that rides great.

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  Great SUV for Towing Our Camper! - 1999 Ford Expedition
  By Dave in Boulder - April 14 - 2:00 am

  When we set out looking for SUVs, we decided that it had to easily tow our travel trailer. Our trailer weighs in around 5,000lbs. We wanted something that was smooth on the highway, had room for the kids, and would tow easily at 14,000 feet. After searching all the imports, and American vehicles we settled on the Expedition for its comfort and prowness. We are enjoying it so far, and cant say anything really bad about it.

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  Mustan - 2002 Ford Mustang
  By GT-Rocks - April 13 - 2:00 am

  I purchased my Mustang GT Conv. over a year ago. So far it is the best car I have onwed, over Camaro, TransAm and Honda. It handles best on the market and blows the doors of most other cars. The back seat is quite small but is far less noiser than any other convertable I have owned.