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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  Worse Car Ever - 2000 Ford Focus
  By Myrna - October 17 - 6:38 pm

  It should of been a red flag from day one. When I test drove the car. But I was in need of a car so I purchased the car. And since then it has been a nightmare. I have had this car for 10 months now. And I have put in over 1,000 in repairs. Timing belt went out 3 months after I got the car. 3 months later ignition lock had to be repaired. Right now it is actually in the shop. Shakes a lot. Engine light keeps coming back on. Has leaks. I still have a year to pay it off. I recommend never, ever buy a used ford. They are a nightmare and you will regret it. I will never purchase a ford again. The radio didnt even work and yes the knob from the volume started melting in the summer.

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  I love my car - 2013 Ford Focus
  By Tracy Riggin - October 17 - 11:17 am

  I find myself looking out at it or taking quick glances at it when I am at home...I researched a long time to locate the car I wanted, and I found it. at firs,t I didnt care about the color because I would have been happy with a few other choices, but the color is actually one of the things I like best about it. I chose a dark, sparkly pewter color. It looks understated and classy. The other thing I adore about it is the quiet drive. I can shut everything out and just drive...awesome!

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  Get one while you still can - 2004 Ford Focus
  By slothbert - October 17 - 10:00 am

  This is a great car at MSRP; with current Ford rebates, its a steal...but not for much longer, 04 is the last year for the SVT Focus. Its a terrific drivers car with superb steering, handling, and brakes, and a strong engine (though power delivery could be better). Early Focus problems seem to be worked out; build quality is great and the SVT is tight as a drum. Its a blast to drive, but works as a practical, roomy hatchback too. Im surprised it hasnt been more popular--its price and quality make it superior to Civic Si, GTI, etc.

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  6 cylinder dog - terrible disappointment - 2004 Ford Mustang
  By 900 - October 17 - 10:00 am

  Terrible disappointment. I just test drove a new 2004 6 cylinder. I am shopping for a 180+ hp, rear wheel drive, american made car with good gas mileage. I thought the 6cyl stang would foot the bill, but came it up terribly short. The car is so heavy that the cheesy 6 cylinder motor cant seem to get out of its own way. I recall my 1993, 140hp, 6 cylinder beretta having much better acceleration. I wonder if the 5 speed performs any better. The interrior would be great if this were 1989!

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  Rough Idle - 2004 Ford F-150
  By RoughStuff - October 17 - 10:00 am

  The engine (5.4L) idles rough when stopped at lights/stops signs. Occasionally tries to stall when starting from a dead stop. Dealer unable to solve. Very nice truck but I am considering unloading it at a loss because this is so frustrating.

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  I love this truck - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By Rel8ed2abb - October 17 - 10:00 am

  I am new to driving SUVs, I think this one has been a real pleasure to drive. Car like drive with a truck feel. I highly recommend it.

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  Great dog-hauler, but amenities back to 1980s - 2013 Ford Transit Connect
  By porchsteps - October 17 - 9:14 am

  Heres my huge complaint about this vehicle: It doesnt turn off its own lights. The problem is that I havent driven a car made since 1990 where it was even possible to leave the lights on so that the battery ran down. Other things they NEED to improve: can only unlock the rear cargo doors with key fob. Its impossible to lock the keys in the car (good) but keeping the fob handy at all times is annoying. Back seats: can fold down one, or all, but cant leave 1 up and fold down 2, which would be my preference. Otherwise, its nimble, pickup is good enough for my purposes. I miss some other amenities of my 2006 hhr but the price was good here.

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  Not Bad but Not Good Either - 1997 Ford Explorer
  By Michelle W - October 16 - 5:13 pm

  Bought used from a dealership - within 6 months the transfer case went - $2500 to replace. The air conditioner needs to be fixed that another $1000. But is good on gas in the city and the brakes seem to last forever. Leg room in the front is good but is a tight fit in the back.

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  Nothing like a clean black car - 2008 Ford Mustang
  By multimaticford - October 16 - 3:11 pm

  I am 19 years old and own my dream car. Evertime I look at it in the parking lot I think what a cool car, then realize its mine. Magazines complain about the handling, but the stock tires are rock hard since Ford expects people to actually drive the car unlike other manufacturers (this means they last longer). For the price you simply cant beat the performance you get back in return. As far as the interior, I think the design is brilliant and very clean looking, but most peoples complaints are the materials being on the harder side. Even though Ford sells 130K of these a year, people still smile and wave when you drive by.

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  Nice - 2009 Ford Mustang
  By scook5 - October 16 - 11:27 am

  I wasnt looking for this car because of practically reasons of having a small child and winter driving but decided to take a chance and leased one. My 4-year old likes the car and there are no issues with him and using the back seat. The ride on extremely bumpy roads may be of concern for some because of the solid rear axel but even in Michigan. Classic vehicle design stands out and the interior upgrades have improved on the prior poor looking base interior. So far the experience has been real good. Ill just have to see how the vehicle performs in the winter!