The news today is focusing on the woes of General Motors and, to a lesser extent, the Ford Motor Company. As the #1 and #3 largest automakers in the world, all of GM's and Ford's problems have been splashed across news headlines suggesting that each company is on the brink of disaster. Certainly, both automakers are having big problems, but Ford's losses are much less than GM's and their product line is stronger. Indeed, as Toyota continues to nip at GM's heels, Ford may be ready for a rebound of its own and better suited to battle Toyota in the long run. Let's compare the automakers and see who has the better products, one’s that consumers really want!

Ford Focus, Toyota Corolla
No contest here as the Focus is an old model and in need of updating. The Corolla is new and a popular seller and it, along with the coming subcompact Yaris, great values for consumers. Equip your ride with a quality flowmaster Muffler today.

Ford Mustang, Toyota Solara
It can be difficult to compare such different vehicles. The Mustang is an excellent example of a retro style sports coupe, while the Solara is a modern looking two door Camry. However, the edge is clearly with the Mustang, a truly hot car with an attitude.

Ford Fusion, Toyota Camry
The Fusion is based on the popular Mazda 6 platform and has proven to be a hit for the automaker. The Camry, newly restyled for 2007 finally drops its dull image. Too hard to decide so I would give these models a tie. You can supply your ride with quality Auto Parts from the Auto Parts Warehouse.

Ford Five Hundred, Toyota Avalon
Avalon's Lexus look clearly gives the model an edge. Still, the all wheel drive capabilities of the Five Hundred is appealing, but not enough to thwart the Avalon, at least just yet.

Ford Freestar, Toyota Sienna
No contest here as Ford has never quite gotten the minivan concept down pat while Toyota has. Ford is reportedly planning to exit the minivan segment, choosing to go with crossover vehicles, such as the Edge, instead. For now, the Sienna is the easy winner.

Ford Escape, Toyota RAV4
Clearly a tie here. Both SUVs are car based and both have built a reputation over the years of being quality, affordable vehicles.

Ford Explorer, Toyota 4Runner
Close, but no cigar. The Explorer is the winner, mostly because of its sterling reputation. The 4Runner is a close second. Throw the versatile Explorer SportTrac in the mix, and Ford easily wins.

Ford Ranger, Toyota Tacoma
It seems as if Ford has forgotten to update its compact truck, the Ranger, once a popular and thriving model. The Tacoma, on the other hand, has been kept up-to-date and it is the clear winner in this category. You can keep your Tacoma running great with genuine Toyota Pickup Parts and accessories.

Ford F Series, Toyota Tundra
Gosh, Toyota certainly is making a mighty effort to take away sales from the king of all trucks. The new Tundra is burly, massive and a capable competitor. Still, the F Series is the sales leader and with a newly redesigned model on its way, able to hold off the Tundra. Keep your truck looking great by installing quality Ford Tail Light units as needed.

Ford Expedition, Toyota Sequoia
The biggest, burliest, and most luxurious of the SUVs offered by these automakers. Hard to compare as each one is so different: Ford's Expedition is based on the F Series platform, while the Sequoia is based on the up and coming Tundra. Okay, let's call it a tie. Choose only quality Mufflers for your big SUV.

No, I haven't compared all models as there are some gaps. Toyota has more hybrids while Ford has more trucks. While the good money is on Toyota for long term health, Ford is making strides and will likely be the better for it. In any event, consumers have some good choices to make when selecting their next vehicle.

We also serve the surrounding communities of Alachua, High Springs, Hawthorne, and Newberry!

Thank you for visiting the ECONOMECHANIX WEB SITE. Please feel free to comment. We also serve the surrounding communities of Alachua, High Springs, Hawthorne, and Newberry! Gainesville has been my home since 1974, and I've loved Gvl and the Gators since I came here in the fall of 1974 to attend the University of Florida. I loved it so much I stayed and opened my car repair business. Originally it was out of the back of a 1963 Chevrolet wagon, but in 1977 a fellow mechanic and I opened an auto repair shop with actual walls, etc. I stayed in the same location for 26 years, and recently moved my operation to property I bought 15 miles east of Gainesville. I am doing most all the repairs myself now, having reduced my overhead from $1500 per month to practically nothing. I do work by appointment only. I mostly work only on my established customers cars, but I will occasionally take on new clients. E-mail me and I will either make arrangements to look at your car, or I will recommend you to someone who will.

George G. Scott, Jr.