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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  Expect to have your entire dash pulled out - 2016 Ford Mustang
  By TSmith - July 28 - 7:34 pm

  This is a fine automobile with one major exception. The air conditioner evaporator coil fails on these very early on, requiring the complete removal of the dash for the replacement. Mine failed at 3,100 miles. My 2012 Mustang had the same failure at 19,000 miles. Many owners have had repeated failures of this same component requiring multiple complete dash tear outs. Parts and repairs can require a long wait time. Also, if the part fails outside of the 36 month warranty period like my 2012 did, you are looking at a $1,500 repair bill.

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  For fun - 1990 Ford Mustang
  By mustangfreak - July 28 - 4:15 pm

  Ive had my Mustang for a few years now. Its one of the most reliable vechiles I own. The performance is incredible. If you plan on getting a Mustang a 5.0 or a 4.6 or even the old 3.8 just plan on having money for a few things (tires and clutches.) I only put about 7,000 miles since I bought it and Im due for a second set of rubbers and a new clutch.

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  I know, I know, all 10s? - 1999 Ford Mustang
  By Ruby The Red Pony - July 28 - 2:07 pm

  Yep. And its the truth. I have had nothing but a great experience owning this little pony for the past 9 years running strong. It still shines up nice, gets looks from everybody- and their mom. It sounds cool even with a stock v6. Nice little rumble. Power? Very sufficient. Handling? Does fine, takes corners, stops on a dime. Interior? I have driven the new (05+ models) and I honsetly didnt feel as snug in them. I like the hugging quality of this model over the newer, more sedan-like interiors. Feels sportier. I put GT rims and tires on mine for a little more handling. Never had a breakdown. I have driven this thing across the country, pure joy. What a great car. For the price, a great deal. Great stereo, great motor, looks awesome. A value and a joy.

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  Mixed feelings. - 2007 Ford Edge
  By First Time Buyer - July 28 - 1:57 pm

  Went from midsize car (Chrysler) to the Edge. First impressed with build quality and design. Over time, still not comfortable with the ride height, Ford Flex looks better. Seats are not as comfortable as when first driven. The driver seat adjustment controls leave a lot be desired. The blind spot due to A-Pillar and mirror combination are daunting. Backup warning system is a must when trying to navigate through small dark,rear window. Overall height makes loading the cargo area harder since items need to be lifter higher. Engine is strong, maybe too strong as experienced at full throttle, torque steer is hard to fight. Gas mileage range is 20 city & 26 highway, very good for the size.

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  I love it! - 2000 Ford Explorer
  By Tracy - July 28 - 1:25 pm

  This is by far the best vehicle Ive had. It looks great, its the perfect size, and its really great on gas! If youre looking for a small SUV I would highly recommend this one!

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  Still Not Up To Par Vs. Japanese - 2006 Ford Five Hundred
  By Freeagent35 - July 28 - 9:30 am

  This is a fleet vehicle supplied by my company. I drive it regularly, a mix of highway and city miles. Though a definite improvement from the Taurus, still not up to the level of quality of the better Japanese cars. Examples: (1) Hood has to be slammed to close. Dont have to do this if build quality and clearance is correct, but I have to slam the hood hard or it wont latch. Unacceptable. (2) Grinding and creaking noises in steering/suspension. This began shortly after purchase, in cold temps. Now happens regularly. Im sick of buying imports but will have to until Detroit makes quality their number one goal. I likely would not buy one; if so, only if it was really cheap.

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  On the road with my Explorer - 2005 Ford Explorer
  By papadlh - July 28 - 6:19 am

  I purchased my 05 Explorer used with 32,000 miles. Today I have 93,000 and have had only a couple minor problems. A CD was stuck once but after a restart it came right out. The AC/heat blows in on my leg and should be moved to a different location. The fuel mileage is almost 20 MPG with about 800 LBS of gear and an overhead rack. It is a Flex-fuel vehicle but does not perform as well on E-10. The AdvanceTrac is instantly responsive and would buy another just for this feature alone.

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  Very happy owner - 2004 Ford Explorer Sport Trac
  By JRDALD617 - July 28 - 2:00 am

  I have been very happy with my new vehicle. I would recommend the running boards.

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  Great Car - 2003 Ford Focus
  By Bean - July 28 - 2:00 am

  Wonderful car, no problems, very fun to drive

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  Love my Ford Focus - 2003 Ford Focus
  By Patricia Lejsek - July 28 - 2:00 am

  I was not looking for a Focus when I went to get a car. Due to the dealer not having the car I really wanted on the lot, I chose to get a 2003 Ford Focus, brand new, right off the show room floor. I love my Focus, and will be driving it for a long while before I get another car.