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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  2000 Ranger - 2000 Ford Ranger
  By Jenni Latza - July 30 - 2:34 pm

  GREAT truck. First ever owned. Only problem we have run into and has had to have periodic fixing were the pillar doors (?) that lead the A/C and heater air to the cab. They sometimes jam open or shut. The dealer says this could be because of the salt used in the winters in Ohio. Lubrication helps. Replaced upper control arms once, as roads are very bad in the Cleveland, OH area. Otherwise, a very good vehicle to buy.

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  Black Beauty - 2006 Ford Mustang
  By Mustang Rider - July 30 - 12:16 pm

  I just bought a 2006 Mustang on 2/4/06. I have been sitting in it since then! The car is a joy to drive. Ford did an incredible job with the engine. With a total of 210 horsepower, this baby can move. One of my favorite parts about this car is the sound of the engine; Ford gave it a very "Sporty" sound! The exterior is just as sexy as the Mustangs from the 60s. However once you get inside this baby, you will be amazed at what you get for the money. The gauges have the ability to change to up to 125 different color combinations and has a very "Retro" look. Best of luck on your next car! I hope you pick my new favorite ... the legend...the 2006 Mustang.

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  So far, So Great! - 2012 Ford Focus
  By bald_eagle1 - July 30 - 9:13 am

  I am a 53 year old male and this is my first American made car. After a lot of research and test driving, I decided to buy the Focus instead of a Civic or Elantra. This car handles much better and is quieter than my previous car (2009 Accord). It has a nice "throaty" engine sound and more than adequate "pickup". If it will be as reliable as my Honda, I will be more than happy. My wife is so impressed with this Ford, that she is considering a 2013 Escape!

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  After 5 & one half years - 2000 Ford Windstar
  By s lznb - July 30 - 2:09 am

  We bought this vehicle due to the handling and power. The only one close was the Pontiac Montana sport but we couldnt make a deal. This van has never been any trouble, just routine maintenance, still has the OEM battery. Better fuel economy than expected, hwy & town. It has exceeded expectations and is still a pleasure to drive. I would buy another one except the new dash arrangement is unpleasant.

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  I love this car - 2005 Ford Thunderbird
  By ED Weiner - July 30 - 12:42 am

  Leased this car in Florida in February and have had fun with it since. Great top down car. Drove up to NH in May and got more clothing into trunk than I thought that we could. Also used the top well for soft clothing on the long trip. Have had the car in for service only for the 5000 mile oil change. The car has great fit and smooth ride. On long trips I have been averaging 24 miles to the gallon. City about 18mpg which I think is good for a large 8 cylinder. Excellent quality all the way.

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  As good as it gets - 2007 Ford Focus
  By Daniel Feldman - July 29 - 4:13 am

  This is probably the last affordable station wagon that provides what stations are supposed to: space, with a lot of fuel economy, without paying for the performance of the car. My only complaint would be about the interior design where a few more compartments could be added, and the quality of the materials could be higher. It would be great if all the accessories offered on the British version of this car were available.

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  2005 T-BIRD CONVERTIBLE WITH HARD TOP - 2005 Ford Thunderbird
  By judy - July 29 - 12:24 am

  I enjoy returning to my car and finding it surrounded by people admiring it or getting a thumbs up while on the highway. The car is a pleasure to drive a lot of power and control. The interior is quiet and luxurious.

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  The Diesel is Awesome! Great SUV. - 2005 Ford Excursion
  By Chris - July 28 - 12:48 pm

  This SUV is AWESOME! I am getting 16- 17MPG in city and 21-24mpg hwy. With a 6500lb SUV with 325hp and 560lb torque This beast is quicker than my V6 Mitsu Car and is getting within 2mpg fuel economy on the hwy. Much better choice than my minivan for my 3 kids. Twin girls load easy behind the driver on the 60% bench while letting me flip up and load my 3yr old son in the 3rd row. This leaves PLENTY of room for 3 more adults in back. There is tons of room for the double stroller and luggage behind the 3rd row WOW! Ford is ending production in SEPT replacing it with a 07 stretched Expedition. Get one before they are gone. With Family Plan Pricing a Limited Diesel 2-5K under invoice.

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  Great family vehicle - 2006 Ford Freestyle
  By newfrstylawd06 - July 28 - 6:13 am

  Just got the Limited AWD with NAV, adjust pedal, safety option, reverse sensing, DVD, 2nd row buckets. Chose this over minivans and SUVs after months of research. LOVE IT! A lot of bang for the buck over Honda or Toyota vans if you can give up sliding doors and both rows folding flat. For a family of 4 this is more than enough room and a great look. Also, no one knows what it is. All of my MOM friends are amazed by its comfort and room. Its like a super wagon more than a van. It handles like a car more than a truck which I like. The drivers seat is so supportive & accommodating to a short driver ( better than previous cars). My 61" husband also has plenty of room. Great alternative to minivan.

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  99 Taurus - the Best, the Beast! - 1999 Ford Taurus
  By Moonman - July 28 - 1:10 am

  I got a great deal on this new 99 in Jan. 2000. It has the 24v engine & the standard SE package. I drive it 900 miles to Fla. & 900 back twice a year with only an oil change before the trip. To work and church are both 4.5 mi. so it does get up to operating temperature most times its driven. The only thing that has broken is the accelerator cable (June 05) and it took forever to get the part as it seems none have ever broken before & none could be found locally. I love driving this car! It accelerates VERY well, and surprises a lot of "tuner" cars off the line. It gives great mileage on the interstate, but, with my heavy foot I use a lot of fuel. So Im careful. Still 100% stock. Love it!