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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  X-Mas - 2005 Ford Mustang
  By dingo1999 - September 7 - 12:00 pm

  The new Mustnag is such an eye catcher. Everyone turns their head to check this car out. If you are thinking about getting one, go test drive it today. That is what sold me and my husband. He ended up buying me one for Christmas.

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  My 2004 F-150 XLT Lariat SuperCab - 2005 Ford F-150
  By Kenneth M. Wagner - September 7 - 8:50 am

  I have owned six other F-series trucks and this new F-150 is by far the best. The level of electronics is a huge upgrade from previous models. The ride is superb, and the fuel economy for a vehicle this size is good. This is my first super-cab. The styling and increased space is great. The vehicle is a little on the heavy side, but it does not seem to affect the fuel economy much. It should be interesting to see what kind of reliability it has in the long-run. It was truly a good purchase experience, being able to build your style truck with the options required. Some of the new standard features on certain models is welcomed. All in all, quite a vehicle so far!

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  A Super Fun Car! - 2003 Ford Mustang
  By Kym - September 7 - 3:00 am

  Ive had my 2003 Ford Mustang Convertible for a couple of months and I am having such fun! When the top is down it turns everyones head. It has no fear of increased speed and is a dream to drive in the hills and on long trips to the ocean. Its just perfection. It had an exhaust leak when I purchased it -- though it wasnt detected by the dealerships "top-notch" service team. The local oil-changing place heard it and the dealership had it repaired. Apparently it is a recall or it is just a common problem. Other than that its been the most fun Ive had since I gave up the keys to my minivan. LOL

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  best car in world - 2005 Ford GT
  By JORDAN - September 7 - 12:45 am

  This car will keep you at the edge of your seat with the awesome interior design and V-8 engine pushing more than 500 horsepower. A true work of art.

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  Phenomenal - 1998 Ford Escort
  By Rick - September 7 - 12:16 am

  I bought my pre-owned Escort coupe as a temporary replacement for my older car, until I could decide what I wanted. Well, I fell in love with the car right away and Ive had it for five years. It has a great ride for a small car. I was especially pleased with how it runs with ease on the highway. Now, after five years, it has 90K miles and I cannot recall a single repair. Ive only changed the oil on schedule, kept up with the rest of the maintenance schedule and replaced the tires. Ive been very pleasantly surprised with this car. Now, with the price of gas, I really am glad that I have it. It is still one of the most efficient cars out there.

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  I Appreciate my Vehicle - 2004 Ford Excursion
  By James Gilmore - September 6 - 11:56 pm

  I love the way my vehicle handles when traveling. The ride is exceptional. This is my second Excursion the room they have is added comfort. You are relaxed when you reach your destination -- not tired and all worn down. It gives you a sense of security you dont get from other vehicles. It serves all the purposes I purchased it for. If they stop making them I have no ideal what type of vehicle i would purchase next. The Ford Excursion has proven to be everything I ever wanted in a vehicle.

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  My Dream Car - 2005 Ford Explorer
  By Miranda White - September 6 - 2:27 pm

  This was the vehicle I always wanted, and I got exactly what I had hoped for. It gets great gas mileage off the 4.0L V6 and is comfortable and safe to drive. I have the DVD system and my kids love it. My husband even enjoys driving it. I get a lot of comments on the color which is Fords new Stone Metallic. I would recommend anyone with a family to buy a Ford Explorer.

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  2001 Ford Escape XLT 4x4 - 2001 Ford Escape
  By Karen P. - September 6 - 1:22 pm

  Excellent 4x4 by Ford. Very roomy, handles well, great off-road and on. Superior in snow. I test drove both Toyota RAV4 & Honda CR-V and this was by far my choice. Handles better and cost was definitely a winner. You should consider it.

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  Love this car - 1994 Ford Taurus
  By Happy owner - September 6 - 7:33 am

  I have 95k on this car and its still running strong. Transmission was shifting rough, but a transmission fluid flush fixed that. Despite being 11 years old, it is a nice ride, and Im keeping it till it dies.

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  Pleased to be so pleased! - 2005 Ford Five Hundred
  By Doc - September 6 - 6:33 am

  After looking at a Volvo S80 and the new TL, decided to testdrive the 500. As comfortable, stable and optioned (with what Id want) as either at $10K less. First 1000 miles produced 20 mpg city and high 20s highway.Very comfortable for long drive, great sound system and CVT creates smoothest drive experience ever. Criticisms of power without basis. More than enough for PA hills; never need to reach 60 in 6-7 seconds. Love the info module and the system checks. Returned with rear seats down to carry as much as I could have in a small SUV. Overall, Ive never felt more certain about a car purchase. Ford should advertise this car more - a loaded Limited is clearly a winner and a great touring car!