I'll preface this by saying I am not longer at Ford; my job "was eliminated" (funny I see advertisements - on LinkedIn no less - for it that look very, very similar to what I used to do, but whatever...) over this past summer.
I'll say this - if what I read is true, that those ID'd as being under performers with over 8 years' service get 9 months' pay and job placement service, what the heck are you waiting for? Take the money and run. Seriously!
If you need help I'll explain why: (1) I had to work nearly 25 years to get the same offer; (2) Again, in those nearly 25 years, never ever have heard of Ford doing this before. I was in MS & S when they offered VSSP packages to those with 20 + years and/or over 55 years old (which did go up to 18 months' pay). That is different - they wanted to clear the deck of people that were part of the Ford Pension system; (3) It has not been easy for me to get other employment, but I am over 50 - many of the people this offer applies will not be, so you could have an easier time getting a job; (4) They are sending a huge message that things are going to get much worse and they plan on working those remaining to death just like the great Musk, so if you aren't down for suddenly working 60 to 80 hours a week as the norm, then you should bail; (5) Ford has less than 50 % chance of survival as an independent company on their own over the next 5 years or so the long you work there the more risk in going down with the ship.