F vs GM: Ford Motor Company vs General Motors Company Historical Returns & Investment Comparison
This F vs GM comparison analyzes the historical stock performance of Ford Motor Company and General Motors Company side-by-side. Using real, adjusted market data, this tool shows how identical investments in both stocks would have performed over time—highlighting differences in returns, volatility, and consistency across market cycles.
Use the interactive calculator below to adjust the investment amount and time period, visualizing how Ford Motor Company and General Motors Company have historically performed against each other.
Compare Stock Performance
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Performance Summary
$10,000 invested from 1986 to 2025 (40 years)
Head-to-Head Record
Over the 16-year comparison period, Ford Motor Company outperformed General Motors Company in 6 years, while General Motors Company outperformed Ford Motor Company in 10 years.
F - Ford Motor Company
GM - General Motors Company
Overall Winner: F with an average annual return of 17.65% (vs 11.66% for GM)
Understanding F vs GM Performance
When comparing Ford Motor Company and General Motors Company, investors should consider multiple factors beyond just total returns. Volatility, consistency of growth, dividend payments, and sector-specific risks all play crucial roles in determining which stock might be better suited for your investment strategy and risk tolerance.
Historical performance data shows how each stock responded to market downturns, economic expansions, and company-specific events. While past performance doesn't guarantee future results, understanding these patterns can help inform investment decisions and portfolio allocation strategies.
Cumulative Growth Comparison
A $10,000 investment in Ford Motor Company grew to $107,896, compared to $29,520 for General Motors Company over the same period.
Year-by-Year Comparison
| Year | F Return | F Cumulative | GM Return | GM Cumulative | Difference | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1986 (Start) | - | $10,000.00 | - | $10,000.00 | - | Initial Investment |
| 1987 | +53.23% | $15,323.04 | - | - | - | Tie |
| 1988 | +36.15% | $20,862.21 | - | - | - | Tie |
| 1989 | +34.51% | $28,061.51 | - | - | - | Tie |
| 1990 | -8.00% | $25,816.24 | - | - | - | Tie |
| 1991 | -36.55% | $16,380.36 | - | - | - | Tie |
| 1992 | +14.50% | $18,754.97 | - | - | - | Tie |
| 1993 | +53.37% | $28,765.31 | - | - | - | Tie |
| 1994 | +51.11% | $43,466.65 | - | - | - | Tie |
| 1995 | -9.37% | $39,394.25 | - | - | - | Tie |
| 1996 | +8.22% | $42,633.74 | - | - | - | Tie |
| 1997 | +14.98% | $49,019.66 | - | - | - | Tie |
| 1998 | +59.08% | $77,981.02 | - | - | - | Tie |
| 1999 | +89.50% | $147,776.86 | - | - | - | Tie |
| 2000 | -4.61% | $140,959.91 | - | - | - | Tie |
| 2001 | -15.11% | $119,658.08 | - | - | - | Tie |
| 2002 | -32.56% | $80,701.01 | - | - | - | Tie |
| 2003 | -40.75% | $47,813.66 | - | - | - | Tie |
| 2004 | +67.14% | $79,913.84 | - | - | - | Tie |
| 2005 | -6.47% | $74,743.61 | - | - | - | Tie |
| 2006 | -45.39% | $40,819.70 | - | - | - | Tie |
| 2007 | -0.88% | $40,462.52 | - | - | - | Tie |
| 2008 | -10.39% | $36,260.02 | - | - | - | Tie |
| 2009 | -65.30% | $12,581.13 | - | - | - | Tie |
| 2010 | +306.50% | $51,142.79 | - | - | - | Tie |
| 2011 | +63.33% | $83,529.89 | +7.81% | $10,780.93 | +55.52% (F) | F |
| 2012 | -37.62% | $52,103.28 | -45.30% | $5,896.64 | +7.68% (F) | F |
| 2013 | +18.52% | $61,755.33 | +36.96% | $8,076.01 | -18.43% (GM) | GM |
| 2014 | +20.00% | $74,106.36 | +40.30% | $11,330.81 | -20.30% (GM) | GM |
| 2015 | +3.63% | $76,796.14 | -11.74% | $10,001.02 | +15.37% (F) | F |
| 2016 | -4.54% | $73,308.79 | +1.72% | $10,173.24 | -6.26% (GM) | GM |
| 2017 | -7.11% | $68,093.18 | +9.71% | $11,161.53 | -16.83% (GM) | GM |
| 2018 | +4.76% | $71,334.38 | +21.43% | $13,553.57 | -16.67% (GM) | GM |
| 2019 | -35.23% | $46,203.57 | -16.70% | $11,289.80 | -18.53% (GM) | GM |
| 2020 | +25.54% | $58,002.70 | +13.37% | $12,799.73 | +12.16% (F) | F |
| 2021 | -5.10% | $55,044.00 | +12.76% | $14,432.39 | -17.86% (GM) | GM |
| 2022 | +145.01% | $134,861.55 | +44.73% | $20,887.95 | +100.28% (F) | F |
| 2023 | -44.84% | $74,394.81 | -44.76% | $11,539.01 | -0.08% (GM) | GM |
| 2024 | +15.32% | $85,795.74 | +7.35% | $12,386.84 | +7.98% (F) | F |
| 2025 | -12.89% | $74,738.98 | +49.30% | $18,493.86 | -62.19% (GM) | GM |
| 2026 | +44.36% | $107,895.62 | +59.62% | $29,520.49 | -15.26% (GM) | GM |
Annual returns include dividends and stock splits. Cumulative values show growth of $10,000 invested from the first year. Positive difference means F outperformed GM that year.
Company Profiles
Ford Motor Company
F
Ford Motor Company is a global automotive and mobility company that designs, manufactures, markets, and services a full line of Ford and Lincoln cars, trucks, SUVs, electrified vehicles, and luxury vehicles. It also provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. Ford is committed to innovation, including developing electric and autonomous vehicles, and aims to be a leader in the future of mobility.
Key Innovations
- ✓Pioneered the assembly line and mass production techniques, revolutionizing automotive manufacturing and making cars affordable for the average consumer.
- ✓Leading the charge in electric vehicle development with significant investments in battery technology and new EV models.
- ✓Developing autonomous driving technologies and connected car services to shape the future of mobility.
Business Segments
- AutomotiveEngages in the design, manufacture, marketing, and servicing of Ford and Lincoln brand vehicles, parts, and accessories globally.
- Ford CreditProvides automotive financing products to dealers and customers worldwide, including vehicle wholesale financing, retail financing, and leasing.
General Motors Company
GM
General Motors Company (GM) is a global automotive company that designs, builds, and sells cars, trucks, crossovers, and automobile parts worldwide. GM also provides financial services through General Motors Financial Company, Inc. Its brands include Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, and Cadillac. GM is committed to a future of zero crashes, zero emissions, and zero congestion, investing heavily in electric vehicles and autonomous driving technology.
Key Innovations
- ✓Pioneered many automotive design and engineering innovations, from early combustion engines to modern electric powertrains.
- ✓Leading the transformation to electric vehicles with new platforms (Ultium) and significant investments in battery technology and charging infrastructure.
- ✓Developing autonomous driving technologies through its Cruise subsidiary, aiming for a future of self-driving cars.
Business Segments
- GM North America (GMNA)Designs, manufactures, and markets vehicles and parts in North America.
- GM International (GMI)Designs, manufactures, and markets vehicles and parts in regions outside North America.
- GM FinancialProvides automotive financing services, including retail lending and lease financing, to customers and dealers.
How This Comparison Works
Our stock comparison tool uses adjusted closing prices to calculate year-by-year returns for both stocks. This ensures an apples-to-apples comparison that accounts for:
- ✓Dividends: All dividend payments are reinvested
- ✓Stock splits: Historical prices are adjusted for all splits
- ✓Head-to-head record: Shows which stock outperformed each year
- ✓Statistical analysis: Average returns, best/worst years, and win rates
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Important Disclaimer
This comparison tool is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or trading advice. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Historical returns include dividends and stock splits but do not account for taxes, fees, inflation, or individual circumstances. Stock market investments carry risk, including the potential loss of principal. Always consult with a qualified financial advisor before making investment decisions. The data presented is based on historical market data and may contain inaccuracies or delays.