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:
Showing 9471 through 9480 of 30,482.00-
This Is "One Bad Hoss" - 2003 Ford Mustang
By big c - December 7 - 10:00 amThis is my second Mustang. I traded my 1999 GT for this Stang and although I regretted getting rid of it, I couldnt resist this MACH I. This Hoss likes to run. The ride is much improved, quieter, and the bigger brakes and traction control really improves handling. The shaker hood and low V8 rumble turns a lot of heads. This car has a "Dont mess with me" kind of look to it. The only problems Ive found was a non- functional windshield washer pump and a cracked headlamp cover, which were promptly replaced my local ford dealership.
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And well have fun,fun,fun..... - 2003 Ford Escape
By Tim Hatfield - December 7 - 10:00 amThe area where I live is nothing but hills.My new Ford seems to enjoy the climb as much as I do.My wife who has a history of getting carsick has not once felt ill while riding in the Escape.Im around 63" and I have plenty of room that doesnt take away comfort from my kids sitting in the back.The 3.0 V6 has the power when I need it.
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Not your Grandpas Ford - 2005 Ford Five Hundred
By Ron C - December 7 - 7:13 amI have been eyeing the 500 sedan for years. I recently purchase a previous experienced Limited 500 with low miles at a great price. Ive read all the car magazine reviews and all have said that the 500 lacks engine horses. Its true the 500 isnt a stop light drag racer but put the hammer down and hang on! Ive been able to slice and dice alot of unaware BMW, Mercedes and Nissan drivers. Turn off the Traction Control and the 500 will four wheel drift nicely. In sleeper mode the cars ride and comfort is just super. The heated front seats are really nice on those cold morning commutes. All in all a very nice ride.
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Love my 2006 Silver Stang - 2006 Ford Mustang
By HerbStang - December 6 - 9:00 pmThis V6 is surprisingly fast. I am sorry its not the GT but price was prohibitive. Mainly use this on weekends when top down driving is the most fun. I like the fact that the V6 exhaust has a pleasant sound although Im told switching to the right side GT muffler will improve the sound. Wont sound like a V8 but a more throaty sound none the less. Im considering it but my selling dealer says a different muffler could void the engine warranty. I dont buy that but Im afraid to take the chance. Maybe after the warranty expires.
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Great Car - 1995 Ford Mustang
By Scooter - December 6 - 7:01 pmLow-end grunt of the pushrod 302 is tons of fun, especially on city streets. With a few well selected, simple modifications, the car absolutely comes to life, while maintaining its reliablity, and daily driver ease. The factory brakes are solid, interior and exterior design are solid, handles solid. The gas mileage around town is ok, but in its pretty good on the freeway, getting about 24 mpg. I would recommend this car to anyone, it has been great for me. No other car offers this combination of performance, looks, reliablity, and comfort for the price.
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Excellance with fun & reliability - 2005 Ford Mustang
By Carol - December 6 - 5:23 amI have owned a 1965 and a 1969 Mustang but this car is a whole new experience. Havent had so much fun and enjoyment in 30 years. Ford has really done a magnificent job with this PONY. The V6 I purchased has everything the GT has except fog lamps,dual exhaust, a V8 and 17 inch tires.
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Great Compact Sedan - 2008 Ford Focus
By Nate - December 6 - 5:00 amThe interior is quite nice. The cloth seats are comfortable and the dash layout is uncluttered and easy to use. The radio controls have nice tactile feedback. The engine is peppy and unlike some other sedans in this class, the Focus doesnt feel underpowered merging or passing on the freeway. No regrets in first few months after purchase so far.
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Sweet truck - 1996 Ford Bronco
By ronbs - December 5 - 8:31 pmThis truck is so awesome. I have a Ford expedition, and this truck is faster, and drives way better. The turning radius is so small I love the way it drives and the fuel milaege is not bad for an SUV. I cant wait to take it off road, and have some fun in the snow with it. I wish they still made trucks like this. It runs great for the mileage, and hope it continues to do so.
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97 Ford Explorer - 1997 Ford Explorer
By Hermann Lag - December 5 - 8:24 pmBought with the intent of keeping long term. The truck was very reliable, good performance, reasonable efficiency. NO problem pulling a 3500 lb. trailer through mountains. Comfortable ride.
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Reliable vehicle, great race car platform - 1994 Ford Mustang
By KJ - December 5 - 7:17 pmI bought this car in 1996 and only had to replace the water pump at 80,000 miles. Other things needed work but were accidents like road debris, etc. When the car reached 103,000 miles, it was still running strong with no problems other than wear and tear parts like brakes and the clutch. But, I tore it down and now it still looks the same, but makes BIG power.
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