Founded by Henry Ford and a handful of investors in 1903, the Ford Motor Company is still one of the most recognized and reputable brands in the world over 100 years later. The company’s dedication to engineering ingenuity, research, and innovation has led to numerous models that pushed the limits of car manufacturing and branded their name in the hearts and minds of consumers. Over this time, Ford produced some models that failed and others that embody the spirit of the company. Here are just a few of their most popular models of all time.
Model T
You can’t have any discussion about Ford without starting with where it all began: the Model T. Although this wasn’t Ford’s first car ever made, as it followed the Model A, the Model T was the beginning of an automotive empire. The car rolled out of the factory beginning in 1908 and immediately gained a popularity as an affordable (from $260 to $850), middle-class car. Before the Model T, many automakers existed, but only used highly specialized professionals to craft the car. With the Model T, Henry Ford implemented an assembly line system, which led to lower costs, a modest price, and sales of 16.5 million units. This classic automobile lasted until 1927.
F-Series
In 1948, Ford manufactured one of the first pickups that wasn’t based on the body of a car. The result was one that lasts until this very day. As the best-selling vehicle in the country for 24 years, the top-selling pickup for 34 years, and the most purchased vehicle of 2015, the F-150 was just as relevant over 65 years ago as it is today. Perhaps the biggest reason for its success was a number of innovations over the years, resulting in the unveiling of a 13th generation of the F-Series in 2015. The F-150’s roost at the top of the automotive industry doesn’t appear like it will end any time soon. It’s very presence is symbolic of American pride and automotive might.
Mustang
The muscle car is one of the true American inventions, and nothing represents the era quite like the Ford Mustang. The mention of the Mustang name invokes speed, handling, and one of the most attractive cars ever built. First produced in 1964, the Mustang was actually a mishmash of components of other Ford vehicles, namely the Ford Falcon and Ford Fairlane, mixed with a powerful engine and a strikingly attractive body. Today, the Mustang is still one of Ford’s top sellers and enters its latest generation with a body style reminiscent of the original. However, perhaps the one aspect that Ford and other automakers will never match is the Mustang’s contribution to pop culture. First seen in the James Bond film Goldfinger and in many iconic movies since, the Mustang is synonymous with youth, power, and class.
Thunderbird
If you feel like the Mustang is the breadwinner of the Ford lineup, the Thunderbird isn’t far behind. First produced in 1955 as a response to the Chevy Corvette, the Thunderbird was an attractive two-seater that began the idea of the personal luxury car, which valued looks over practicality. The first-generation, manufactured from 1955 to 1957 is still one of the most valuable American collector cars in existence, with many fetching six-figure prices. Over the years, the brand name diminished as Ford strayed from the original vision in favor of boat-like four-door models. In 1997, the Thunderbird had essentially lost its identity, and attempts to revive the two-door model from 2002 to 2005 ultimately failed. However, reminders of the legendary Thunderbird name are still seen today in items from toys to high school mascots.
Taurus
The Taurus name doesn’t exactly excite most car enthusiasts, but its role in the history of Ford is perhaps the most important of all. In the mid-1980s, when Japanese automakers were designing fuel-efficient cars that appealed to the American masses, Ford floundered. Nothing it did seem to boost sales, and concern grew over the future of the company. However, in 1986 Ford developed the Taurus that provided many new innovations. Some of these included front-wheel drive, easy-to-use controls, a fully customizable interior, and a choice of either a V6 or an inline four-cylinder engine. As a result, the Taurus single-handedly revived Ford, and today it remains a staple of the Ford lineup and their fourth-best selling vehicle of all-time.
It’s difficult to compile a list of the most popular Fords in history without writing a 100-page thesis. Each model has its own special place in the minds of owners and Ford enthusiasts alike. While these vehicles have withstood the test of time, it will be fascinating to see where the company goes in the future.
Connect with us
