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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  Not bad used - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By OKCsooner - December 30 - 9:25 am

  My main regret was buying it right before gas prices went up, for 2 reasons. 1.) this thing is terrible on gas (15/19). 2.) I paid $10,000 and now a year and a half later can be bought here for $6,000. So far the transmission seems to be fine. I also have the false door ajar light and bells. The wheel bearing started making noise (50-65mph) and at $1,200 Im not going to fix it. The body is good looking and the seats are very comfortable. I also like the 3rd row seats. Would probably sell for a better gas mileage SUV if I wouldnt lose $4,000. Would consider buying one if in great shape for $5,000. Mine has 113,000 miles so far and Ive had it a year and a half.

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  Great Ride! - 2006 Ford Mustang
  By Shivel - December 30 - 6:16 am

  I had wanted a Mustang since my teen years and bought one 30 years later. I bought the base model. I havent had any trouble with it since purchasing. Has great get up and go I love shifting gears! Holds the road great and that says something with all the winding country roads we have in WV. Good gas mileage on the highway, not so good in city.

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  Nice Ride - 2016 Ford Edge
  By RM - December 30 - 5:31 am

  Very comfortable and very quiet ride. The 2.0 turbo engine is completely adequate for acceleration needs. The vehicle is still under 2000 miles so its still in the honeymoon phase. So far......so good.

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  Beauty and the Beast...All in one - 2004 Ford F-150
  By "Commish" - December 29 - 9:33 pm

  Bought this 04 SVT used. No regrets! This truck is a beast! You want a rush? Mash the pedal and if you can, hold on! You had better be ready! I get tons of looks and complements every time that I drive this beauty. Respectable MPG for such power (13/18.) Had it for 7 months now and no problems. The only complaint I have is that I dont have enough time to drive it more. I have only put 1000 miles on it.

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  99 to 08 - 2008 Ford Expedition
  By eileen - December 29 - 8:31 pm

  Got rid of my 1999 Expedition and looking to upgrade to a new SUV. My new Expedition is so much better than my 1999. The indepenent suspension is like night and day. The wood dash and leather seats tie together like a high end luxury car. This vehicle is my best by far! Price was 10 grand less then the Acadia and vehicle 10 times nicer!

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  Awesome car! v6 power exiting! - 2000 Ford Mustang
  By Sergio - December 29 - 2:30 pm

  I love this car, is beautiful and durable, the guy who sold it to me did not take care of it but the car response under pressure overpasses my expectatives, ford did good; was running with no oil and until I realize it, it last! a truly horse of the road.

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  Original owner - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By Jim - December 29 - 12:40 pm

  I finally choose to buy American with an extended warranty, glad I bought the warranty. The rear end was replaced within one year, tail lights replaced, several of the power windows replaced, ball joints replaced, a/c replaced. All of the repairs have been done under 60000 miles. Not a good testament to quality. I thought that I would save moneyand buy American, the resale value has offset any savings. I will purchase a Japanese vehicle next time.

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  I never thought Id own or love a Ford! - 2008 Ford Fusion
  By Happy Customer - December 29 - 12:50 am

  This is an amazing car that I almost passed up just because its a Ford! All model years came up in "Most Reliable Car" lists during my research on other cars, so I took it for a test drive and love how smoothly it handles-like a Subaru with the appearance of a Lexus and the inside comfort of a much more expensive car (large,comfy seats). It feels sturdy and safe, and is very quiet. Id never heard of Sync but love it-- I tell my car to "Call Home" and it does. I would definitely consider another Fusion. Best car in its class w/more features at a cheaper price than a Toyota. A lot of car for the money! I never thought I could afford something so nice brand new.

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  Nice Car or SUV or Station Wagon - 2006 Ford Freestyle
  By tazman - December 28 - 10:43 pm

  We just got our Freestyle and no matter what you want to call it, it is a great car. Lots of room, smooth ride, great gas mileage and a good price for a very well equipped car. I never even heard of a Freestyle prior to hitting the Ford dealer. We were looking at the Pacifica and decided on this instead (better gas and less of a blind spot).

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  Great Truck! - 2006 Ford Ranger
  By Terry - December 28 - 9:34 pm

  I love the little truck. With a 4 cylinder engine, I can only wish that it had more torque. I shouldnt complain when Im getting about 29 miles to a gallon on the highway.