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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  Great New Design - 2005 Ford Five Hundred
  By Russell Hylton - June 8 - 6:10 am

  My wife and I looked and test drove several models of new cars before deciding on this purchase. We were very pleased by the roominess of the Ford Five Hundred and also the large amount of space available in the trunk. The test drive was a wonderful experience. The Five Hundred is very powerful for a car of this size and offers a smooth enjoyable ride and it handling is great! We have had our car almost 2 months now and are very pleased with it. We think Ford has a real winner in this model.

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  BEST CAR ON THE MARKET - 2002 Ford Mustang
  By matt - June 8 - 12:20 am

  I have had my Mustang for awhile and it was the best investment i have ever made. Its perfect if you are wanting a car that will really turn some heads or just wanting a all around great car for everyday driving. Everyone I know has let me know how much they like the car, but none of them like it as much as I do. It is and in my mind always will be the greatest car ever produced by any manufacturer. I highly recommend this car to anyone wanting a car with a perfect blend of looks and comfort.

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  I love my car - 2008 Ford Focus
  By Sam O - June 7 - 7:00 pm

  I drive a manual Focus and overall its a great car. I would pick it over the Cobalt any day. Personally Im used to trucks. Until now thats all Ive driven. I switched due to the fuel prices. At first I was kind of scared because Im not used to being so low to the ground. I was used to being up high in my F-250. Dont get me wrong I love my trucks, but I also love my car. All the air bags make you feel safe. Its a car that can definitely get up and go. Although its a 4 cylinder its got some power. Definitely not worried when Im passing other cars. It seats comfortably and even when you have a full car of 5 adults it doesnt feel like your too squished. Overall I love my Focus. Definitely worth it.

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  Wish I had 2 of them.... - 2001 Ford Escape
  By Dave B. - June 7 - 4:47 pm

  This vehicle is fun to drive and is ideal for "running the beaches." It is also extraordinarily sure-footed in the snow. Handles well on the highway as well as the city and the V-6 has power to spare. Wish I had bought 2 of them!

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  2006 F150 Harley Edition Rules - 2006 Ford F-150
  By Lawrence17 - June 7 - 2:13 pm

  Previously I owned a 2001 Harley Edition and experienced no problems. I updated by purchasing the 2006 Harley Edition and couldnt be happier. This truck rules the road. There are more amenities in this truck than in some luxury cars. If you are looking for a truck that will turn heads, this is the one!

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  FuntoDrive - 2005 Ford Focus
  By cookies - June 7 - 11:53 am

  Great little wagon. I bought it loaded and it has been a wonderful replacement for the PT I traded. The kids have more room, room for the dogs, comfortable seating and lots of spunkiness. It turns great and the gas mileage is wonderful..averaging 29-32 on the highway at 75mph! Great for my small family on a limited budget!

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  Pleased with my purchase - 2018 Ford F-150
  By Hoyt - June 7 - 8:51 am

  Traded in my Cadillac for the F-150. The truck had more gadgets than the Escalade, & cost less. I have a 16 Y.O. F-250 that I cant wear out, hope this truck is as good.

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  Satisfied Consumer! - 2005 Ford Explorer
  By Debbie Ripley - June 6 - 9:10 am

  I am thoroughly enjoying my Ford Explorer! A friend of mine and I recently drove our vehicles, loaded with high school-aged kids, to a conference in Pennsylvania (approximately 600 miles one way). The kids who traveled in my vehicle were comfortable throughout the trip and upon arrival to our destination were ready to go! There were absolutely NO COMPLAINTS. The kids in the other vehicle felt cramped due to lack of space, were bored, and tired upon arrival. As the driver, I enjoyed every minute of the trip. I recently had a serious back surgery, yet I was comfortable throughout the trip and arrived at our destination with plenty of energy to spare. The other driver....well....

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  Amazing Performance - 2011 Ford Shelby GT500
  By cstang - June 6 - 4:20 am

  Acceleration and handling are truly amazing. This car is a blast to drive! The exhaust note is intoxicating (who needs a stereo?) and the power when you step on the gas is breathtaking. The front seats are very supportive and comfortable. Ride quality with the svt package is better than I anticipated. Overall fit and finish are very good, not to European standards but very close. The one negative with this car is it attracts a lot of attention from everyone so if you dont like attention this is not the car for you.

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  Wonderful Truck!!! - 2002 Ford F-150
  By Ford Enthusiast - June 6 - 2:00 am

  Powerful 5.4L V-8 pulls our 7,500 pound fifth-wheel with ease (in both 2WD & 4WD). Beautiful King Ranch leather is soft yet durable. It is a wonderful combination of form and function! Definitely recommend to anyone looking for a reliable, great looking truck! Outstanding value for $35,000.