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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  Pony is back! - 2005 Ford Mustang
  By topconbob - August 30 - 6:06 pm

  I havent had this much fun driving since 1966. The sound the acceleartion and the looks from people assure me I made the right choice. The handling and ride are better than expected, the engine is everythng Ford said it would be.

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  A kick in the pants... - 2003 Ford Mustang
  By usa1 - August 28 - 2:00 am

  This car is a load of fun. I can still get my two children in the back and actually enjoy the drive. The V8 power with a manual is fun and never gets dull. With big discounts and rebates, this car is a deal right now for bang for the buck. I got my V8 GT for less than $20K and I have all the features I could want.

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  Sweet shiny pony - 2003 Ford Mustang
  By jagger - August 28 - 2:00 am

  Im 43 and this is my second Mustang. First one, I bought new in 1981, and it was a tragedy from day one. This 03 car, although just the base model, has plenty of punch for my purposes. Yes, Id have liked the V8, but I have a perfect driving record in spite and the big engine would inevitably put points on my record. Im 6-2 and 220, but the car has plenty of leg room. I do have to pop the steering wheel up to get my legs under it, but once in, its really comfortable. The car hit 110mph over the weekend-- on a track, of course!--with no problem. Best part is, I got it NEW for less than 13 grand with a 4.7 interest rate. All in all, quite happy.

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  2001 Ford Mustang - 2001 Ford Mustang
  By radams149 - August 28 - 2:00 am

  The only problem that Ive had so far with my 2001 Ford Mustang is the heat. There is no control to heat your feet and upper body at the same time. Either your feet are cold or your hands and face are??????????????????

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  05 Mustang - 2005 Ford Mustang
  By Bob Oakes - August 23 - 8:10 pm

  Sporty handling and not so sporty ride. Comfortable interior, all controls easy to use except the trip odometer (you have to reach throught the steering wheel).

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  A few step forward, a couple steps back - 2003 Ford Expedition
  By carmagreader - August 23 - 10:00 am

  Traded 00(4x4,sport,fully ldd) for 03 (2wd,AdvTrc,DVD,climseats,safcanopy,tir epres,pwr3rd). Ride handling ovrall noise much improved. But less room frt&bk, worse pwrseat controls, still no pwr reclin & ergonomcly incorr bk seat handles for pulling seats up. Ctr console stor slots, dash cuphldrs & cargo net anchors removed. Ovrall Ford created attractive pkg but as usual cant seem to get details right. For $40K+ car safety options should be std or at lst easy to find, but near impossbl. GM&Toyota SUVs better ovrall design IMO & qlty/reliablty as witnessed by issues posted in Edmunds. Would not buy this car if not for rebate but glad I did anyway.

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  fun - 2000 Ford Focus
  By jamie - August 23 - 10:00 am

  Its fun to drive and a great value

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  MyOpinion - 2001 Ford Explorer Sport
  By Corrine Corey - August 23 - 10:00 am

  Ive enjoyedmy vehicle after a bumpy start with the idler.

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  Life is good - at least so far! - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By wesleyd - August 23 - 1:06 am

  Bought our v8 Eddie Bauer Explorer about 3 months ago - just coming up on 3,000 miles - We love it - great handling for an suv, especially considering that my previous vehicle was a saab 9-3. Holds lots, rides well

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  2005 F150 SuperCab 4x4 4.6L - 2005 Ford F-150
  By Rick - August 22 - 1:50 pm

  Ive owned 3 Audis in the past and this truck trumps them in ride comfort and quietness. Ive put 3,000 miles on it so far (Michigan winter) and am amazed on how stable it rode in snowy/icy conditions. No squeaks or rattles of any kind either. Ford spent a lot of money on developing this truck and it shows.