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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  My Stang - 1992 Ford Mustang
  By Robs Mustang Sally - March 23 - 2:00 am

  I have a 92 LX Coupe and have never had a problem with this car. I have driven through rain, snow, and sand, and you would never know it. The car has a strong engine (as far as 2.3L/105hp go), is reliable, and has the best looking body (88-93)of all mustangs. Its ok on fuel(370 miles per tank highway, 200 city or 24/13). Over the years maintenance has been affordable...and that is the key. Oil changes and fixing problems as they occur has kept this car in mint condition. The only problem that I have consistently is that the steering wheel vibrates over 60 mph. But lucky for me my 2.3L doesnt make it much past there.

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  Jury Still Out - 2002 Ford Windstar
  By Anonymous Bruce - March 22 - 2:00 am

  Purchased just prior to new family addition. No journeys yet to see how it handles luggage load. For our around town its been fine. Gas mileage marginal, at best, around town. Missing thumb release button to disengage parking brake we realized the first time we got away from the dealer and used the parking brake. Stranded slightly temporarily--the dealer fixed in good time. Plan on updating review after more comprehensive use. We particularly enjoy the adjustable foot pedals and power side rear doors.

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  Fair Taurus - 1998 Ford Taurus
  By Nehemiah - March 22 - 2:00 am

  I am happy with my Taurus. Its the SE-standard. The car damatically changed when I equipped it with Bridgestone Potenza RE-710 245/55 on the four corners. The handling improved lightyears.

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  Works for me! - 1994 Ford Explorer
  By Jim Mack - March 22 - 2:00 am

  Ive owned this vehicle for 45,000 of its 86,000 miles. It just keeps on working. Nothing serious in the way of repairs (MAF sensor, A/C hose, tires, brakes), just normal wear and tear. Rides like a truck (duh...)

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  2005 CROWN VIC - 2005 Ford Crown Victoria
  By Slikfuk - March 21 - 10:00 am

  Nice smooth, quiet ride. Comfortable seats, easy to reach controls and responsive to steering.

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  my focus - 2005 Ford Focus
  By wltdll2 - March 21 - 10:00 am

  reliable, fair gas mileage, rear carpet is poorly installed. Very goo handling.

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  Great looks and comfort - 1998 Ford F-150
  By Akldsjh - March 21 - 2:00 am

  I had a great experience with this truck. It has plenty of power, styling, and comfort. Needs to be refreshned soon.

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  A great Car - 1990 Ford Taurus
  By Aqualien - March 21 - 2:00 am

  Its been graet for the family very roomy inside and its lasted sucha long time, My parents bought it when I was a kid now Im driving it to college

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  great car - 1996 Ford Thunderbird
  By bag-o-donuts - March 20 - 2:00 am

  I have had the car for a couple years now and I really like it alot.It has very good pick up w/v8,and very good handling for a car its size.I have not had any major problems.

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  I got a good one - 1996 Ford Contour
  By CaliSE - March 20 - 2:00 am

  Contour SE MTX w/80,000 mi. The car has been great fun, I have been pleased with the reliability. The car has had 5 dealer visits in 6 years wor recalls or non-warranty repairs. It gets 27 mpg on the highway. I found the OEM Firestone Firehawks sub-standard in every possible way and replaced them with Dunlop SP4000s and have been very happy.