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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  They Cant Get This Car Right - 1998 Ford Explorer
  By MDWong - September 2 - 10:00 am

  I bought this vehicle in thinking that this could be a reliable car that would last for years. I was wrong. There is always something wrong with my Explorer from the radio to the continouous motor noise and dont forget the Firestones. On top of that they have recalled six items in my year. Ford has been making this car for several years and still cant get it right. The resale value plummets quickly thus making my car almost worthless at this time. The only Ford I will buy in the future is a 1968 Mustang.

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  Its more than big! - 2008 Ford Expedition
  By Chris - September 1 - 10:16 pm

  This is my third Expedition and I still love the vehicle. Every time we compare to other SUVs and minivans. For the price and size, you cant beat it. Our last was the 4.6L 2002 model so this was a change for us. While I miss the better gas mileage, we are still getting 17 mpg. With kids, we pack heavy. Theres always plenty of room. The new design is boxier than the older style. I liked the older styles exterior better. However, the new interior is much better. The stow-away 3rd seat, and the middle bench that folds in three places is a big improvement. And as much as I miss that better MPG of the 4.6L, I love the power when I hit the gas now. Third Expedition, no complaints!

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  Dream car - 2006 Ford Mustang
  By jim - September 1 - 6:07 pm

  I wanted a lime 68 as a kid but never could afford one. Now I am 50 and Ford not only brought back the color, but they made it look like what I wanted. I had been looking for a 68 or 69 in that color, which is impossible to find so I saw this 06 on the internet at my local dealer. One test drive made me realize that I didnt want an old one anymore. I got the looks coupled with power handling and a quality in the build that the 68 and 69 were lacking. So far I cant say enough good things about the car and hope to get a grabber orange to add to the 89 convertible, 98 coupe and 06 GT that I have now.

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  The road warrior - 2004 Ford Excursion
  By mike - September 1 - 5:53 pm

  We are very happy with the Ford Excursion! Seats 8 comfortably. We love the four wheel drive. Excellent towing, lots of cargo space. Has 33" tires and drives great! Love the front and rear AC, DVD, and wireless headphones great for the kids.

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  Just purchased 2007 Ford 500 Limited AWD - 2007 Ford Five Hundred
  By Dylan - September 1 - 1:33 pm

  Great car. Very surprised when I got into the car on how nice it was. Hugs the road, quieter than Taurus (last car) but they need to do even better. For the money a GREAT VALUE. Heated front seats, split temp control, reverse sensors, nice leather, 6 disc in dash changer, Sirius radio, 8 way adjustable seats, 2 memory buttons to recall driver cockpit settings. FAST. I went to look & ended up buying my 1ST new car.

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  Fun, Fun, Fun - 2006 Ford Mustang
  By Jack Donohue - September 1 - 10:56 am

  The most fun Ive had driving a car in a long time. From the time I first saw the 2005 as a convertible I knew I had to get one. To get it the way I wanted I had to order it. Black, tan interior, tan top, 5 speed. I am very surprised & delighted at the good quality throughout. Fast, handles & looks great. Hardly a day goes by without someone commenting on what a great car it is. Traded a BMW Z4 for this pony & the fun factor went up by 100%.

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  First Taurus - 2005 Ford Taurus
  By First time owner - September 1 - 7:07 am

  Transmission replaced at 26,000. New Ball joints at 30,000, brakes repaired twice, electrical problem with transmission, all repaired under warranty. Ford dealership that did the work was really good. If I buy a Ford again it will be because of the dealership. Car appears ok now, bought it used with 10,000 miles on it so it may have had rough use. Car is a little noisy on the highway, rear side visibility somewhat restricted. Car air and heat work good. Mileage about 27 to 30 on highway.

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  Explorer Sport Trac - 2002 Ford Explorer Sport Trac
  By kzerby - September 1 - 1:36 am

  I purchased this vehicle because I am going to be having a child soon and needed something with more room. I chose the Sport Trac because of its unique ability to carry passengers and still haul items in the pickup bed. I also chose this vehicle because of the decent reviews it has gotten from most reviewers. Also I love the color (Island Blue)! So far I have 1450 miles on my Sport Trac.

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  Update previous review - 2008 Ford Taurus
  By sweetwaterguy - August 31 - 10:48 pm

  I indicated in my first review 8 months ago that poor fuel mileage might be a deal killer, although I liked the car very much. My mileage has improved significantly since my first road trip in January. In June my round trip mileage from an identical 2000 mile route improved over 4mpg to almost 31. The difference could be due to winter vs. summer conditions, and break in. My car was new during the first trip. Now I am happy to report that highway fuel economy is excellent. Town mpgs continue to be a little disappointing. Overall, I have found my Taurus to be an excellent road worthy car, expecially for a 65" guy like me.

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  My second Escape - 2008 Ford Escape
  By Doug - August 31 - 10:30 pm

  I had a 2005 XLT Escape and loved it but liked the look of the 2008 more. Have had the vehicle for 6 months and it is great. Drive 80 miles a day for work and the performacne and ride is excellent. For the price the Escape is and great.