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 Best! - 2005 Ford Five Hundred
  By A.Gray - April 24 - 6:50 am

  Id been looking foward to this car since I saw it at the auto show in NYC last year. Now that I own it all I can say is WOW! The Command Seating gives you real confidence. The cars overall stature is impressive. Handling is better than the Taurus. Interior space is overwhelming. Exterior design is flawless. Heads turn when you drive by. This ones a keeper. Great Job Ford!

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  Fun Fun - 2006 Ford Mustang
  By Kent - April 23 - 6:36 pm

  This is probably one of the best performing cars I have owned in a long time. Definitely an attention getter when I run through the five speed manual. No rattles at all and top is solid as can be.

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  Outstanding - 2008 Ford Edge
  By FASTANG - April 22 - 10:03 pm

  It is above and beyond my expectations not to be a true luxury vehicle. I like the visibilty it allows with its height. It drives like a sports car but rides like a luxury car. It has a hint of sportiness to it that keeps it from looking like a "grocery getter".

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  Great Car - 2002 Ford Taurus
  By Tom Battiato - April 22 - 8:58 pm

  The most comfortable and reliable car I have ever owned. Outside of regular maintenance (I change the oil religiously), the only problems I have had were a dead battery (the heat in Florida saps them), and a nail in a tire. This was the best purchase I have ever made, especially for the reasonable price.

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  I LUV THIS SUV! - 1999 Ford Expedition
  By LLcoolG - April 22 - 8:17 pm

  I have had this SUV for 2 1/2 years. I love it. As long as I can afford the gas, Ill keep it. It is so comfortable for me and my large family.

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  Fine Ford Product - 1999 Ford F-150
  By George - April 22 - 10:55 am

  Bought this truck three years ago with 67,000 miles. It has been GREAT! Only repairs were a rebuilt alternator, and brake disks, front. Otherwise, it hasnt missed a lick, great seats, decent mileage. Ride is a little bouncy without a load, but less than my neighbors nearly new Dodge 4 x 4. Would definitely buy it again.

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  Best Yet - 2004 Ford Taurus
  By Cruisin90 - April 21 - 4:54 pm

  I am a member of a Taurus Family - weve all had one and I love it. This one is my second - traded a 2000 on it which was still running great at 70k miles. This is my favorite yet though. I have had no problems with it and I drive almost 60 miles a day. Taurus are great for safety - a family member of mine after getting hit by two trucks was still able to walk away though the car didnt. I would recommend this car to anyone. I must recommend the 24 valve engine and sports package because it is a great option for anyone wanting a little more power. I did a few things to the 04: Le Bra, tint windows. mud flaps, and am thinking about chip. Wish it had sunroof.

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  My Escape - 2001 Ford Escape
  By JME - April 21 - 3:01 pm

  The only complaint I have about the Escapeis the cruise control button shape, it has a pointed edge and got caught on clothing and popped off several times the last time I just gave up on fixing it!

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  I Love My Van - 2002 Ford Windstar
  By Martinezfam1126 - April 21 - 1:19 pm

  I purchased this van used and I love it. I get better mileage than I get with my husbands new Honda. My son loves climbing in and out of it. We have taken this van everywhere and it works perfect.

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  good minivan - 2005 Ford Freestar
  By dalereid - April 21 - 2:48 am

  I have only had mine for a short time but I feel that, so far, it is a nice van at a decent price. The engine seems to have ample power with reasonable fuel mileage.