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:

• 

  Nice ride - 2007 Ford Mustang
  By jquin4 - August 28 - 1:33 am

  Ive driven 2 Altimas & a Corolla before this vehicle. Big step up in fun factor and performance. I dont know of any speedy, chic autos that can compare to Mustang convertibles when it comes to price. Im glad I have it and am seriously considering buying a GT in the future. Ford please dont change the body style. Id like to see the interior improved, but most people who are aware of Mustang realize that cheap interior is par for the course. Besides, that would increase the price. Some small mishaps occurred in year 1: the windows malfunctioned at times, the trunk light went loose, the turn signal had problems. Driving out to the beach is a blast. Better than a Sebring or Solara!

• 

  Best car I have ever driven. - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By Matt Daly - August 27 - 10:50 pm

  This was the first new car I have ever owned. I drove this thing off the lot with only 22 miles on it! Handles like a dream, acceleration is great, and the interior is comparable to a high-end luxury car. The only gripe I have about this car is the fuel economy. I do a substantial amount of city driving and I find my fuel economy dipping into the 15s at times, but the highway mpg is excellent (roughly 29mpg). All in all, a great car, and I am very satisfied with my purchase.

• 

  First car, couldnt be happier - 2005 Ford Mustang
  By vb - August 27 - 10:47 pm

  I really love this car. Even for a v6, the performance is great for a reasonable price. You barely have to touch the pedal and you get great acceleration. The gas mileage is alright, better than I thought it was going to be considering its a sports car. Interior and exterior designs are both absolutely beautiful. The retro fonts on the gauges take a little getting used to, but this car is a real blast to drive. I have had no problems with the car so far, just like the majority of the reviews said. The tank only costs $40.00 to fill at $3.45 per, which isnt bad. Overall great car in every aspect that makes a sports car what it is.

• 

  Great car needs little improvement - 2007 Ford Fusion
  By Michael K - August 27 - 9:07 pm

  I leased this car in January 2007. It had great gas mileage and is a very very good looking car in my opinion. There were only a few things I think should be changed. The 4 cylinder really lacks power, to the point it drove me crazy! The 6 cylinder would make it a wonderful car! The only problem I had was the brakes making a snapping sound, especially braking after backing up, I saw several different Fusions that had that problem. Other than that it was an awesome car. Very reliable and solid, I think Ford did a great job with this car overall.

• 

  Good - 1992 Ford Tempo
  By Walkthelin3 - August 27 - 8:05 pm

  I bought this car from a friend in November for 250 dollars. It was in pretty good condition and had 132,000 miles it is now August and I have 160,000 miles. Within that time Ive replaced the starter, radiator, hubs and water pump. Ive over heated the engine and beat on it. The thing still runs great just like it did the day I got it. Its a very reliable car and even though its not as powerfull as Id hoped it would be I instantly fell in love with it and still love it.

• 

  Im in love! - 2008 Ford Edge
  By EH78 - August 27 - 4:00 pm

  After having our first baby three months ago we decided we needed something bigger. I usually have my husbands help but he will soon be deployed so I needed something big enough to carry everything and anything (including two Ridgebacks). I had looked at several SUVs (Honda, BMW, Toyota, Hyundai etc.) and settled for the Edge.

• 

  So happy with new car - 2006 Ford Freestyle
  By traverse city mi - August 27 - 1:55 pm

  We just bought our 2006 Freestyle about two weeks ago and I have been so happy with it! We have two small children and the captains chairs in the second row are great to keep them seperate. There is a center console for all their stuff and to stash diapers as well. I really like the memory seating for the drivers seat. It also remembers where your mirror were as well. Seating is sooo comfortable and the six disc CD player rocks! Great speakers!

• 

  Still Going - 1992 Ford Tempo
  By dave - August 27 - 10:15 am

  I bought this with 16000 miles on it, the only thing we have done besides the normal stuff is a water pump at about 55,000 miles. Ive put more money in tires on it then anything else, it just starts and goes. The cruise went out about 5 years ago, I have never bothered to do anything about it. The front windows do not roll up and down, it was to much work to fix so I have not. It is now using anti-freeze, but Im not sure where, I suspect the head gasket. I hope to give it to my son when he gets his license, we bought it just before he was born.

• 

  Not Bad - 1998 Ford Explorer
  By Doug in Chicago - August 27 - 2:26 am

  All in all has been good vehicle. Early rash of irritating recall items. Ride is stiff and truck like. Engine is plenty powerful (V-6) with good acceleration and passing. Good choice but not if your looking for smooth ride.

• 

  Very fun to drive - 1990 Ford Festiva
  By Aric - August 26 - 9:56 pm

  OK Ford could not of hit the name of this car more perfect, Fiesta. It really is party like fun to drive. Great gas mileage. Im getting 41 mpg city no upgrades. Love the steering and handling. Its not perfect. But if you leave to have fun on some country roads it gets the job done. I put 350 miles on it then fill it up only put a little under 25 dollars in it to fill it up. This car has a lot of room. Im 6 foot 4 and am not cramped. Basically Im saying I will have this car for as long as my family.