Some cars represent better candidates for a custom build than others. The 1970 Ford Maverick is a no-brainer because its design and engineering leave room to slot a V8 under the hood to improve performance. That is the path the seller has followed, ensuring that this Maverick has the power and torque its creators never envisaged. It presents quite well in its current form, though the buyer could tweak the interior to enhance its appearance. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Terry for spotting the Maverick listed here on Facebook Marketplace in Strafford, Missouri. You could fly in and drive it home after handing the seller $11,500.
Ford introduced the Maverick for the 1970 model year. It featured crisp, contemporary styling, but beneath the surface lay underpinnings dating back to the 1960 Falcon. I have never considered that a negative attribute, because buyers were effectively handing over their cash for a proven product. This first-year Maverick looks striking in Hulla Blue. The seller added the hood and bumper from a Mercury Comet before applying a fresh coat of paint. The work is relatively recent, which helps explain why the car presents so well. There are no genuine cosmetic shortcomings, and no evidence of rust. The trim is in good condition, as is the glass. The aftermarket wheels and tires are another recent addition, and are the most obvious sign that this Maverick might be more than a pretty face.
Ordering a first-year Maverick brought a selection of two six-cylinder engines. With the range-topping 200ci motor delivering 120hp and 190 ft/lbs of torque, it is fair to say that performance was acceptable. Hiding beneath this Maverick’s hood is a 302ci V8, teamed with a four-speed manual transmission. Ford introduced the 302 to the range in 1971, producing 210hp and 296 ft/lbs of torque. It would be fair to expect at least the same figures from this V8, although I wouldn’t be surprised if there were more ponies at the driver’s disposal, courtesy of the upgraded Edelbrock carburetor and HEI ignition. The seller states that not only is this motor freshly rebuilt, but so are the brakes. The impression conveyed is that this Maverick is a turnkey proposition.
The interior is where the buyer could truly make their mark on this Maverick. Trimmed in Blue vinyl, the seatcovers seem to show slight wear, although that could also be an image imperfection, and the dashpad is cracked. The seller includes a new Black carpet set for the buyer to install. How far the buyer goes will depend on what they are willing to spend to lift the Maverick’s interior appearance. For example, a replacement pad retails for approximately $430, and a set of seatcovers, if required, will add a further $850 to the tally. Alternatively, the new owner could go the budget route by installing the carpet, along with a set of slipcovers for the seats and a cover for the dash. The interior would look okay without costing a fortune. The seller indicates there are functional flaws with the factory gauges, while Ford’s bare-bones approach means there is no radio or other creature comforts.
Classics like this 1970 Ford Maverick pose a challenge because they write their own rules when it comes to potential value. The seller’s price is on the high side of the affordable range, but it is above what buyers might expect to pay for a similar, unmolested example. However, the engine upgrades make it a tempting proposition, and with scope for interior improvements, the buyer could make their own mark on this classic. It has only been on the market for around one day, but how quickly do you think it will find a new home?
Que aftermarket wheel screeches.
One of the coolest street machines I’ve ever seen was a Maverick, back in the 70s. Since then, I’ve never seen one that compared.
It was the perfect combination of flawless apple green paint, wheels, engine hardware, and stance; although it also could have been the chemicals which regularly flowed through my gray matter during that ‘era’. Regardless, it was one stunning ride.