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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  The first, but not the last - 1999 Ford Expedition
  By billell - May 10 - 2:00 am

  No major problems in the three years that Ive owned this vehicle. Placed an order for a 2003 today and hopefully, will be driving that one by the end of this month

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  Got a Lemon but a nice truck otherwise - 2015 Ford F-150
  By Rob C - May 9 - 1:42 pm

  Bought a new 2015 XLT 2.7 ecoboost for a great deal. 42250 MSRP and with 7K discount and 7K rebate paid 28K for this truck! First new vehicle in 27 years. Unfortunately it spent 33 days in the shop out of the first 90 days of owning it. It shut the engine off while driving 3 times. Now after 3 repairs attempts it shifts irregularly now and then. Great design and most have no issues but this one was just not one of those without problems. Highway mileage is awesome, acceleration if really great. Roominess cant be beat and the camera spoils you. I did not like the 8 inch screen that only uses 2 of the 4 boxes if you dont have navigation and climate control, kind of a waste. Ford bought my truck back after the CA lemon lawyer took care of handling it. Decided to stay with used vs new.

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  Great Car - 1994 Ford Escort
  By SD - May 8 - 2:00 am

  Ive just loved my Escort GT! Its been reliable, fun and durable.

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  Standard Solid Car - 1997 Ford Escort
  By Scott Pearson - May 8 - 2:00 am

  This economical car is a family vehicle with no bells and whistles but plenty of perks to keep you happy. When you need a good used car, this is an excellent choice.

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  Good, dependable car - 1996 Ford Taurus
  By Will W. - May 8 - 2:00 am

  Purchased this car with 30,000 miles and now have 201,000. No major repairs were necessary, this vehicle still has same engine and transmission. I just kept the oil changed every 4,000 miles and serviced the transmission every 40K to 50K. Costs were reasonable for repairs. Highly recommend as a low cost means of good transportation.

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  transaxle seals - 2005 Ford Five Hundred
  By axles - May 7 - 5:43 am

  My 500 front transaxle seals both failed at 4,400 miles and it took them 13 days to receive and then install the seals. BIG DISAPPOINTMENT. Im wondering if this is going to be a recall issue.

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  What can I say? - 1995 Ford Windstar
  By Sunbelt - May 7 - 2:00 am

  If you could replace the mechanicals you would have an outstanding minivan. Its big, and handles better than any other its size. Weve had it on several long trips, and it was quite comfortable. But weve paid for it! Second transmission baulky--well stick it out til it goes entirely, thank you. We nursed the engine 110000 miles before the head gasket went. That was a mistake! The brakes are headed for their fifth repair. On the other hand, it never left us stranded--always struggled home. I would estimate this car cost Ford almost as much consumer loyalty as their suicide SUV.

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  3.8L Stangs -> 1995 - 1995 Ford Mustang
  By 3.8garth - May 6 - 2:00 am

  Top of the line Fords appear to be a greater value. Plus get this last year for a proven 5.0L configuration in a Mustang - classic. My attempt to save money by purchasing a cost efficient 1995 Ford Mustang with a 3.8L V6 and weaker 7.5" transmission was a huge and costly error. If you are still considering a low-end model at least research it from Edmunds, NHTSA, and Consumer Affairs before making a commitment.

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  Original owner 07 Edge - 2007 Ford Edge
  By joedallorso@ocalahousehunter.com - May 5 - 7:03 pm

  I bought my Edge in December 07 and this is June 16. I have only 74K miles on it. I had a problem with the anti lock brakes that was out of warranty $1200- and had to replace the AC compressor $1200-. Gas mileage is poor only about 17 mpg in city. It has great acceleration and Id trade some of that for better gas mileage. Great back seat leg room ! Great storage behind the rear seat ! It is the rear seat leg room and storage that sets the Edge apart fro the competition. Update 01/2017 I traded my Edge in on a 2016 Edge. I liked the 07 enough to but another.

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  Solid vehicle - 1994 Ford Taurus
  By RDR - May 5 - 2:00 am

  I got this car with 92,000 miles already on it and didnt really expect to drive it too much as a second car. However, with its great mpg and roomy interior (as opposed to a truck) I drive it all the time know. I know have 130,000 on it and have had to replace the normal: tires, battery, and fulids. I plan on taking it on a 5,000 mile trip this fall.