Ford Motor Company (F), General Motors Company (GM), American Autos Don’t Get Enough Credit

But look at how far the Ford Fusion has come in its short six-year lifespan:

The Fusion is keeping pace so far this year as well, with both vehicles topping 80,000 sales in the U.S. for the first quarter. Camry sales, meanwhile, declined 12% last month, losing some ground to the Fusion, which gained 6%. The factory producing the Fusion is now running over capacity to try to keep cars on the lots.

But this race between the Fusion and Camry isn’t the only story making headlines for the competing automakers. Last year, the Ford Motor Company (NYSE:F) Focus topped over 1 million in global sales, allowing it to claim the No. 1 selling “nameplate” crown — a crown that Toyota’s Corolla had worn. When global sales for the Corolla sold under different names are included, the Corolla does top the Focus, with 1.16 million sold to 1.02 million — but that doesn’t change the fact that Toyota is probably scratching its head and wondering how Ford has managed to make such a quick turnaround. Ford Motor Company (NYSE:F) not only competes in segments it was once laughed out of — it’s beginning to win.

Bottom line
Popular vehicles and better management have provided a consistently profitable bottom line for Ford Motor Company (NYSE:F). The company has also improved operations while growing economies of scale — giving a boost to its industry-leading margins. It reinstated its dividend, and then soon after doubled it. Loyal investors from the start of Ford’s turnaround are enjoying their spoils while waiting for a future that could bring even greater returns.

As consumers begin to give Detroit another chance, it should be a rewarding ride for Ford investors.

The article American Autos Don’t Get Enough Credit originally appeared on Fool.com is written by Daniel Miller.

Fool contributor Daniel Miller owns shares of Ford and General Motors. The Motley Fool recommends Ford and General Motors and owns shares of Ford.

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