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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  Fun car but needs help - 2000 Ford Mustang
  By randali - April 18 - 10:00 am

  Fun car to drive. No major problems since purchase. Has to many squeeks for a car with 33K miles. The 5 speed tranny can be cumbersome and sometimes produces a clanking sound. The cabin is very noisy and a lot of heat comes up from the center console by the parking break. Terrible seating position and unacceptable adjustment for head rests (Im 510 and the headrest does not reach my head. The plastic interior is kind of cheesy and has sharp edges. Exhaust sounds great and its an eyecatcher in red but I wouldnt buy another.

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  excursion is great - 2004 Ford Excursion
  By kbyerley - April 18 - 10:00 am

  I previously had an expedition but it lacked storage space. I can store anything in this vehicle. the excursion is the best vehicle I have ever owned, it drives well, it is very comfortable, and seats eight very well. I would buy another one if they still make it in four or five years. I keep the expedition for four years. the only draw back is the fuel economy it has none. It likes gas. I knew this when I bought it that it would use a great deal of fuel. It you can afford the fuel bill, everyone should have one. I like everything about this vehicle, I feel that ford has a winner here and should continue to produce it.

• 

  Original Owner - 1994 Ford Explorer
  By Batsava - April 17 - 2:00 am

  The roomest SUV for cargo. Find that at 85,000 + miles and counting, it has served me well. Like any vehicle, you need to take care of it with regular maintenance

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  good for me good for you - 1998 Ford Taurus
  By fred lober - April 17 - 2:00 am

  no problems everything still working good ,never had to pay for any repairs other than maintenance

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  Be Warned!!! - 1994 Ford Thunderbird
  By chadlincoln - April 16 - 2:00 am

  I bought my car because it looked awesome, the price was low, and it had low mileage (54,000 when I got it in 2001). Ford had a customer care on the head gaskets for the 3.8L. Mine blew with 80,000 miles. Ford wouldnt do anything to help me out with it, even though it was well under the 100,000 mile extended warranty. Mechanic at dealership told me that a majority of those that blow head gaskets that hes fixed end up locking up about a month later because of the damage already done from the head gaskets. Not going to buy anything Ford ever again. Terrible gas mileage too. I had to fill up about 1.5 times a week. Expensive when gas shoots up.

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  Works Fine - 1995 Ford F-150
  By dgkevbo - April 16 - 2:00 am

  I have a 4.9L I-6 that is reliable albeit with low power. Vehicle still looks good, runs well and has had no major problems.

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  Best new vehicle Ive ever purchased - 1999 Ford F-150
  By Lariat54 - April 16 - 2:00 am

  There have been no major mechanical problems with this truck, only regularly scheduled maintenance required. So far it shows no signs of the door crack problems associated with these early models of the redesigned Ford F-150. Also no signs of the piston slap problems associated with these trucks.

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  Bought Brand New no problems except for recall - 2012 Ford Focus
  By Rob - April 15 - 11:40 pm

  I bought this car in 2012 brand new. SE Sports & Winter Package. Great, reliable car. Only problem has been the transmission recall that my local dealership took care of (even though it took 3 visits). Has never stalled on me and starts great every time.

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  Great Vehicle - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By MFreedman - April 15 - 7:06 am

  Pros:This is a wonderful vehicle. I came from a Ford Explorer and have more room than a vehicle that looks bigger. Great features like audible beep when backing up (the radio actually reduces volume) and a very smooth ride. I am completely satisfied with the pick-up and performance of the CVT transmission. Con: The automatic climate does not seem that responsive. When I lower the temp it still blows hot for a period of time. I need to bring it in. The CD player acts a bit crazy at times. Occasionally skips to next track befor song finishes and speeds up as if it senses a skip that isnt there.

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  high quality sport car - 2002 Ford Mustang
  By ho quy pham - April 15 - 1:20 am

  mustang gt is an great car for 22k around. keep it up, ford.