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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  Rating - 2005 Ford Explorer Sport Trac
  By Tom - March 7 - 7:00 pm

  Only had one problem with this vehicle.Only happened once; bogged down while going down highway. Pulled over - shut off engine - waited a couple of minutes and it started right back up and has not happened again since (months ago). Like the style and plenty of room in back seats for adults; the rear seat air conditioning is excellent. Recommend the hard cover option for the bed. Keeps items dry and helps gas mileage. I keep my foot in it and still get 20MPG highway.

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  Nicest ride in the truck catergory - 2002 Ford F-150
  By don doane - March 7 - 12:12 pm

  I have owned many new for trucks and this has to be the town car of all of them. I have driven all the other makes that are compatible to this vehicle and none compare. This vehicle has performed flawless for us with no visits back to the dealer.

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  Very Surprised - 2010 Ford Escape
  By Nick - March 7 - 12:10 am

  I decided to dive Ford another chance after years of driving different makes. I am pleased to say I am blown away. I purchased a base model (cheapie) and it has a TON of equipment already on it. The Escape handles well, is well put together (feels solid), has great power out of a 4 banger, and accommodates my 64" tall 350 lbs frame well with enough room to accommodate two car seats in the back seat! If you have not driven a Ford lately... DRIVE ONE!!!

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  Ford Freestar, great value, - 2004 Ford Freestar
  By ben - March 6 - 4:57 pm

  If youre looking for a van to buy and keep, not trade in a lot, buy the Freestar and buy an extended warranty. I have a 1998 Windstar and the Ford service centers are really number 1. When youre on the road and you need service or something happens, youre in good hands. The van is great.

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  Fun to drive - 2001 Ford Focus
  By Enthusiast - March 6 - 1:56 pm

  More fun to drive than any other car Ive owned. Would buy a new car if I could find one more fun to drive.

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  2005 Ford Focus - 2005 Ford Focus
  By Sandra - March 5 - 5:40 am

  The Focus is a wonderful car with a lot of room and great on gas. Its compact enough to get into any parking spot without any trouble.

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  Best SUV I have ever owned - 2005 Ford Excursion
  By b-bambam - March 5 - 3:37 am

  I tow a lot and need a big car. I pulled the trigger on the Excursion with the diesel engine. Would highly recommend the diesel over gasoline engines. I get 21 mpg on highway and about 16 in city. If you seriously utilize an SUV and have a large family I would consider this your best bet over any other SUV, especially if you tow. Owned 2 Suburbans, 2 Jeeps and nothing compares to the comfort and room of the Excursion.

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  An Unproclaimed Gem - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By Jack Hammond - March 4 - 6:40 pm

  Never saw an ad, but we did see the Freestyle on the highway. Went to a dealer to see close-up and walked out owning a new Freestyle. We are very pleased with this SUV and cannot understand the lack of promotion from Ford, it seems to be almost invisible. However, we think almost with out exception, this SUV is one of the best buys on the mid-size market. Our other SUV is a 2000 Yukon XL and this Freestyle replaced an 1998 Jeep. You would do well to spend some time with this vehicle before you buy.

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  So far... so good! - 2003 Ford Escape
  By Kleinzle - March 3 - 6:52 pm

  Went from an Acura Sedan to the Escape because I really wanted a 4 wheel drive. Definitely fun to drive and I love sitting high up now! Husband complains about the hard leather but I think its pretty comfy. I finally am looking forward to a good snow storm!

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  Red Mustang - 2003 Ford Mustang
  By Brooke - March 3 - 1:24 pm

  All I have ever dreamed of was a red Mustang! My dream came true in February of 04. I love my Mustang. It is an awesome car, not to mention that it draws so much attention. I love the color the best. Red is my favorite. I love my car and I wouldnt trade it for anything, except another red Mustang!