Karl Benz may have created the first automobile in 1886, but it was Henry Ford who revolutionized manufacturing with the Model T’s assembly line introduced in 1908. This innovation had a profound impact on the automotive sector, making vehicles accessible to a wider audience. Over time, the price of the Model T decreased significantly to a point where even factory workers could afford to purchase one. Ford’s rich history includes iconic vehicles like the Mustang and F-150, both of which have sold over a million units. Yet, there are several less-celebrated models that also played a critical role in Ford’s success.
Among American automakers, Ford stands out for its global outreach. In markets outside the U.S., numerous models such as the Puma, Focus, Kuga, Explorer EV, and the notorious all-new Capri are available, but are not offered in the States.
Sales data is compiled directly from Ford.
10 Ford Taurus (1986)
7.5 Million Units
The Taurus featured a revolutionary ‘jelly bean’ design and a user-friendly interior, alongside durable construction that set benchmarks within its category at that time. Ford also launched the sporty Taurus SHO, which remained in the lineup for years. The Taurus was discontinued in 2005 but made a comeback in 2008 as a rebranded Five Hundred model. The Ford Freestyle, sharing a platform with it, was reintroduced as the Taurus X, moving the model to the crossover segment. After a complete redesign in 2010, the Taurus marked the end of its generation in North America. Although Ford discontinued most of its sedans apart from the Mustang, the Taurus is still sold in other markets, albeit under a different label.
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9 Ford Ranger (1982)
Over 7 Million Units
Ford launched its midsize pickup journey in the 1970s in partnership with Mazda before introducing the Ranger independently in 1982. While the F-150 is the flagship pickup for the American market, the Ranger primarily caters to international markets, particularly in Australia, South Africa, and Asia. The Ranger went on an eight-year hiatus in the USA but returned in 2019 with a fourth-generation model based on a platform from its former Australian division. The Ranger T6 has evolved to include a fifth generation featuring the V6-powered Ranger Raptor.
8 Ford Explorer (1991)
Over 8 Million Units
In 1991, Ford introduced the Explorer, a pioneer in five-door crossover designs. It quickly gained popularity as America’s favorite midsize SUV, known for its flexibility, spacious cabin, and exceptional ride quality. The Explorer has been revamped approximately every four to seven years, with its fifth-generation model’s D4-derived unibody structure proving so robust that it stayed on the market for nearly a decade, undergoing two significant facelifts. The recent facelift debuted earlier this year, maintaining its reputation as a reliable family SUV at a reasonable price.
7 Ford Transit (1965)
Over 10 Million Units
The Ford Transit, launched in 1965, has earned a reputation for reliability and versatility, particularly in Europe. After making its U.S. debut in 2013, it quickly became one of America’s top-selling vans, replacing the older E-Series line. Its success has prompted Ford to expand the Transit lineup continually, offering everything from an all-electric delivery van to the stylish Transit Trail Camper Van.
6 Ford Mustang (1964)
Over 10 Million Units
Sixty years since its launch in 1964, the Mustang is now in its seventh generation and has begun to resemble Ford’s version of the 911, particularly with the release of a variant to compete with the revered 911 GT3 RS. Though Ford has leveraged the Mustang name for an electric crossover, this iconic muscle car endures as the sole option available for enthusiasts, especially as Chevrolet has discontinued the Camaro and Dodge transitions towards electric or turbocharged engines for its Charger. Rumors are circulating about Ford’s intention to develop a four-door Mustang, with reports indicating it has already been presented to dealers for feedback.
5 Ford Focus (1998)
Over 16 Million Units
Introduced in 1998, the Ford Focus was groundbreaking for its time and achieved significant popularity globally, reaching the title of the best-selling car in the world for several years. It offered innovative features and engaging driving dynamics. However, as consumer interest shifted towards SUVs and crossovers, the Focus was ultimately discontinued in the U.S. due to dwindling demand.
4 Ford Model T (1908)
16.5 Million Units
The Ford Model T made car ownership possible for the average person by mass production, drastically reducing its price from an initial $850 to just $260 by 1924, equivalent to $4,786 today. This commitment to affordability resulted in over 16.5 million units sold, at one point representing half of all cars on the road worldwide. The Model T maintained a production span of nearly 20 years, marking its historical significance in the automotive industry.
3 Ford Escort (1968)
Over 20 Million Units
Although the Escort was mainly a European model, it found a brief existence in the U.S. from 1980 to 2003. The iconic MK1 Escort was celebrated for its affordability and rear-wheel-drive design, making it a favorite for both amateur and professional rally competitors. The success of the MK1 extended to racing tracks, solidifying its status as a desirable compact vehicle during the late 1960s and 1970s.
The Escort’s rally legacy continued until the MK3’s introduction, which shifted to front-wheel drive, diminishing its competitive edge. Nonetheless, its strong reputation persisted, allowing the Escort to remain in production until the early 2000s.
2 Ford Fiesta (1976)
22 Million Units
Though the Ford Fiesta had a fleeting presence in America with its sixth generation, the vehicle has been a staple since 1973. Originating amid the World Oil Crisis sparked a demand for compact, fuel-efficient vehicles, the Fiesta was originally considered to be named ‘Bravo’ until Henry Ford II opted for ‘Fiesta’ just before launch, despite General Motors holding the naming rights. With over 22 million units sold throughout its lifetime, like the Focus, the Fiesta faced discontinuation in the U.S. market to prioritize crossovers.
1 Ford F-Series (1948)
Over 41 Million Units
The Ford F-150 is a quintessential American vehicle, having been in production for over 76 years since it was initially launched as the F-3 model. The actual F-150 name emerged with its introduction in 1976, ultimately becoming the most popular pickup truck in the U.S. for more than 40 years. The F-series is so lucrative that it could function as a standalone car company. It boasts nearly double the sales compared to the previous-listed vehicle, a compact hatchback.
Notably, the F-150 predominantly serves the North American market, with only minimal exports to other regions, indicating that the majority of the reported 41-plus million units sold are within the United States.
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