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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  I LOVE mine!!! - 2001 Ford Windstar
  By kylemommy - April 11 - 2:00 am

  Granted I just bought it and bought it used (low miles), and I LOVE it. I test drove most all of the vans out there and this one has the best pick-up by far. It has a nice big engine in it which I was really looking for, is a safe vehicle and I like the exterior design of not having to see those awful looking sliding door tracks in the middle of the back panel. It was by far the biggest van inside and I find the legroom fine in the back. I love driving this vehicle and cant wait to take my next trip in it!

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  New Escape - 2004 Ford Escape
  By RobNJ - April 11 - 2:00 am

  Im new to the SUV market. I traded in a Ford Taurus which was loaded with options and a great car, but was looking for something different. I guess I have to get use to driving an SUV. The Escape handles well, but a little disappointed with some features and interior design.For instance, the shift on the column, havnt had one in years. It gets in the way since it sticks out so far and you cant see what gear your in when the wheel is turned.

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  Be not mislead! - 2004 Ford Focus
  By An owner - April 11 - 2:00 am

  My 2002 Ford Focus SVT is beyond a doubt one of the most fun to drive vehicles I have ever owned -- When I can drive it... I have had over ten repair issues in less than 10,000 miles and the car is currently in a sad state of disrepair. To ad insult to this injury my Ford service experience has been the absolute worst I have ever experienced.

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  Mixed feelings - 2000 Ford Focus
  By Bummed too - April 11 - 2:00 am

  I bought this car new. In the 3 years (27,500 mls) Ive had it, its been more trouble than my 10 yr old Honda (+200,000 mls). Things that should work for a certain amount of time dont. The latest is the rear power window. The mechanism failed and now needs to be replace. This is just 3 weeks AFTER the wrnty expired. Ive also had to bring it back for recalls - wipers and backseat latch. The stereo was replace too. On the other hand it is fun to drive. I love all the cargo room with the back seat down. Its easy to manuever, and it has some zip to it. Its cute and good back seat leg room. Wont buy another, but remember you get what you pay for.

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  My F-150 - 1995 Ford F-150
  By mmsteve - April 9 - 2:00 am

  The only complaint I have is that the oil pan rusted out and I had to replace it. Other than that, the truck is great!

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  99 2DR Standard Mustang - 1999 Ford Mustang
  By Cyndi Kreiner - April 9 - 2:00 am

  Ive had an excellent experience with my Mustang. Its been exceedingly reliable and has required very little maintenance. In 49,000 miles and "check-ups" every 3 months, Ive only needed oil changes, tire rotations and air filters. On the down-side, its obviously terrible in snow and ice. However, the traction control makes a huge difference. Ive never been stuck and Ive driven in a lot of snow living in Northern Ohio and Michigan.

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  A very good car for 2 people &children - 1997 Ford Contour
  By Marco - April 9 - 2:00 am

  A very good car for 2 people &children

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  Rebeccas Review - 1993 Ford Escort
  By Rebecca Hughson - April 8 - 2:00 am

  I purchased my car in the summer and the sunroof was a great thing. The car rides really well and is very good on gas. It is a standard car which made it better on gas. It is also aircared.

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  Pleasant Surprise - 2001 Ford Windstar
  By Moaner - April 8 - 2:00 am

  With 2 boy kids we took the van plunge. A year later the SE is very satisfying. Sleeps outside and looks as good today as at delivery. Wheels are easy to clean. Oil changes are a breeze (though 5w-20 oil can be tricky to find) The van is spacious though kids will find a way to beat each other its more effort now. The van is almost too comfortable. At 61" #245 at least once Ive wandered on a dark and quiet road. The back seat is great for waiting out kiddie parties. Downers: Unresolved whirring noise at lights (guess: power steering.) Dealer couldnt or wouldnt fix it. Needs more pickup power (but then all minivans get cut off) The lady differs but to me traction control is hype.

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  Std Coupe - 2001 Ford Mustang
  By DavLar - April 7 - 7:10 pm

  Excellent reliability. Attention to detail lacking.