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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  You cant make lemonade out of this lemon - 2000 Ford Focus
  By Marie - November 19 - 10:52 pm

  Since the car hit 60,000 miles its been in and out of the shop constantly. With no warning, the clutch dropped out while I was driving 65 mph down the highway. Repair bill: $600. One of the parts they replaced broke again within two months. That was covered by a warranty, but it was still a pain and a safety issue. Then the fuel system went out, leaving me stranded. Thankfully, covered by a recall, but still a pain and a safety issue. Then the key wouldnt go into the ignition, again leaving me stranded. Repair: $300. Headlight wiring melted: $50/light. Air bags dysfunctional. Now the electrical is screwed up and the car dies unexpectedly at varying speeds while Im driving it. Whats next?

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  This van is a piece of junk - 1998 Ford Windstar
  By Cocoamosh - November 19 - 5:23 pm

  This van was good for about 3 months and then it went to hell fast. Rack and pinion power steering pump and struts-they all go together and its costly. I loved my van until about a week ago and got an estimate for repair. No wonder everyone says do not buy a Ford-Found On The Road Dead and some other words I can think of.

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  Good Old Days - 2006 Ford Mustang
  By Howard - November 19 - 1:20 pm

  After 4 months of looking for an affordable, yet sporty and fun car to drive around I have returned to my youth with a Mustang. The retro styling clearly caught my eye, but this one is decades ahead (literally) of my 65 pony. This car has more power, more room and I think, better handling than the BMW 3 series, and the $10K in my pocket certainly makes up for any subtle differences. It feels good to be back in a "stang." Driving is fun again!!

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  Well thought out truck - 2008 Ford F-150
  By burton - November 19 - 9:52 am

  First Ford truck I have owned, 4 Chevys previously. Had Ford a short time but am very impressed with the small things compared to Chevy. cup holder on dash, cruise on wheel, power package for base truck (windows,doors, mirrors), light weight tailgate, bed light comes on automaticly, side running boards.

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  Blind Spots - 2006 Ford Explorer
  By S. Jonsson - November 19 - 6:53 am

  Nice smooth ride compared to the 2000 Explorer Eddie Bauer I traded off. This is my third Explorer and they keep getting better.Very sharp body style. Interior dash is laid out nice. Interior door handle is in a awkward spot to get at. The upgraded 18" wheels look sharp but the chrome painted caps are cheap.

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  Horrible Lemon - 2017 Ford Fusion
  By Kay - November 19 - 2:44 am

  I havent had my brand new for over 6 months and it has been in the shop over 10 times. Ford keeps coming up with excuses why they cant buy the vehicle back. When it comes to providing me with another form of transportation if they dont have any vehicles available they tell me I have to pay out of my pocket and they MAY reimburse me. Ford volunteers to pay one month note which is still not paid so I am receiving harassing phone calls from Ford credit all day plus it is being reported on my credit as delinquent payment. I will never recommend anyone to purchase from Ford especially a brand new car.

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  Good Car - 2014 Ford Explorer
  By Jennifer - November 19 - 2:18 am

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  One fun car - 2001 Ford Mustang
  By andy - November 19 - 12:13 am

  This car was just a blast to drive. Had many compliments on style and performance. I would buy another one without hesitation. Want to buy the new style GT

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  Love it! - 2005 Ford Escape
  By Billabongguy - November 18 - 8:11 pm

  I bought my Escape when i was thinking about buying a Kia Sorrento. I decided on the Escape because it had better creature comforts, nicer interior, and a lot more power! That little 3.0 with 220hp is fast responsive and I love it. I love the Mach audio system with the sub in the back. It thumps hard.

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  Poor ratings - 2004 Ford Freestar
  By shocked 1 - November 18 - 2:19 pm

  In short, 3 years owner of 2004 Ford van, Freestar. No warning, trans quit! No safety recall? Its a major safety when youre in middle of a freeway and van litterally stops pulling! Come on Ford, own up. Were 60 & 70, cant just go & buy new car! Ford wants a loan, but wont help fellow customers over bad workmanship? Poor, poor bussines. Never will our families or friends buy Ford!