Most Popular Ford Vehicles Over the Years

Although Ford is a household name today, the company didn't become one of the top auto manufacturers in the world by pure luck. Over the years, Ford has consistently debuted new, impressive vehicles that have revolutionized the automotive industry for the better. Many of these vehicles remain in production today, while others have left a lasting legacy. Here are seven of the most popular Ford cars over the years.

Ford Mustang

The Ford Mustang, introduced at the New York World's Fair in 1964, quickly became one of the most-loved vehicles in the U.S. With its stylish appearance and low price point, the Mustang became the most successful new vehicle in the U.S. in its first year of production, with over 420,000 models sold. By 1966, Ford had produced over 1 million Mustangs for the masses, who cited the car's appearance as a major factor in purchasing the vehicle.

While the Ford Mustang may look different today, nearly 60 years after its debut, it remains a popular vehicle for its style and performance. The 2022 Ford Mustang continues to lead the pack with its classic design, powerful engine options, and state-of-the-art technology.

Ford Explorer

Since its debut in 1990, the Ford Explorer has consistently been one of the bestselling SUVs in its class. Each year, hundreds of thousands of people choose to purchase this functional, reliable midsize SUV. In its first 25 years of production, Ford sold more than 7 million Explorers and expanded the vehicle's reach in over 100 markets.

Ford began producing the Explorer as a way to appeal to car buyers who wanted more space without sacrificing design and quality. Today, it continues to rank as one of the best-selling SUVs for its spacious interior and enhanced comfort features, making it a vehicle the whole family will love for years to come.

Ford Model T

Perhaps no Ford vehicle has had as much of an impact on the automotive industry as the Model T. As one of the first mass-produced vehicles, the Model T was one of the highest-selling cars in the U.S. throughout its production. Introduced in 1908, the Model T originally sold for $260 to $850. The first-generation Model T had an optional windshield and came with a hand crank to start the vehicle.

Ford built and sold more than 15 million Model Ts before discontinuing production of the iconic vehicle in 1927. Even 100 years later, many people still celebrate the legacy of the Model T and Henry Ford's dream of manufacturing a simple, affordable vehicle to revolutionize transportation.

Ford Taurus

Chances are, you know someone who drove a Ford Taurus in the 1990s or 2000s. This comfortable, four-door midsize sedan was a mainstay on American highways over its 34-year run. Ford debuted the Taurus at the 1985 Los Angeles Auto Show. The vehicle marked a departure from the boxy sedans of the time with a sleek, stylish exterior. Just seven years later, the Taurus had become the best-selling car in the U.S.

Ford built over 8 million Taurus models before it ceased production of the classic sedan in 2019. While you may see slightly fewer Taurus models on the road today, it's still a popular choice for people who want to buy a reliable used sedan at an affordable price.

Ford Thunderbird

As the first sports car in the Ford lineup, the Thunderbird has a rich history. The vehicle debuted in 1954 with a two-passenger design and canvas top. The first Thunderbird models sold for a between $2,695 and $4,000. In the following years, Ford continued to redesign the Thunderbird by adding engine options, power seats, more interior space, and an optional four-seat configuration. In 1959, the Thunderbird first appeared on the NASCAR circuit, transforming the sports car into a race car.

While Ford ceased production of the Thunderbird in the mid-1990s, the company decided to release a new Thunderbird Heritage Edition in the early 2000s. In 2005, Ford officially discontinued production of the Thunderbird after celebrating its 50th anniversary.

Ford Focus

Originally designed to succeed the Ford Escort, the highly versatile Ford Focus has had a far-reaching impact throughout its production. Ford introduced the compact sedan in 1998 in Europe and began manufacturing the vehicle in North America the next year. In 2013 and 2014, the Focus was the world's top-selling vehicle, thanks in part to its popularity in China. Sales of the Ford Focus topped 1 million in those years, with about two Focus models sold every minute.

In 2018, Ford stopped manufacturing the Focus in North America. However, the company continues to manufacture and sell the vehicle abroad, where it remains a popular choice for those wanting to drive a sedan with refined features and maximum fuel efficiency.

Ford F-Series

Of all the vehicles on this list, the F-Series trucks may be Ford's most popular vehicles. Year after year, the F-Series continues to be not only the best-selling truck in the U.S., but one of the best-selling vehicles in the country, period. The company has sold over 27 million F-Series models. At one point, Ford estimated someone purchased an F-Series truck every 35 seconds.

Ford introduced the F-Series trucks in 1948, only a few years after the end of World War II. The company drew on its experience manufacturing military vehicles to begin producing full-size pickup trucks for consumers. Over the years, Ford has continued to innovate the design and performance of its F-Series trucks to meet the needs of customers. Today, the Ford F-Series pickup trucks continue to be popular choices for anyone who wants a powerful workhouse truck with maximum performance capabilities.

Now you know all about seven of the most popular Ford cars over the years. At Ciocca Ford of Red Lion, we can help you find the Ford vehicle of your dreams. Whether you want a brand-new Ford Explorer for family road trips or a powerhouse Ford F-150 for heavy-duty jobs, we have something for everyone. Browse our online inventory of new Ford models or check out our selection of quality used vehicles. When you're ready to take a test drive, visit our dealership or contact us for more information. We look forward to seeing you soon.