347 Stroker: 1971 Ford Maverick

This 1971 Ford Maverick proves that it is possible to inject excitement into what many would consider to be competent family transport. It presents well, but the seller’s decision to pair a 347ci Stroker V8 with a five-speed manual transmission gives it performance credentials Ford never envisaged. This beauty is ready for action, and I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Rocco B. for spotting the Maverick listed here on Craigslist in New Milford, Connecticut. You could fly in and drive it home after handing the seller $35,000.

Launched for the 1970 model year, the Maverick remained on sale until 1977. It looked stylish and modern, but if you scratch below the surface, you discover that the latest offering rode on the Falcon platform dating back to 1960. I’ve never considered this a negative attribute, because it meant that buyers purchased what was essentially a proven product. This Maverick rolled off the line in 1971, looking crisp and clean in Wimbledon White. There are no genuine cosmetic shortcomings, and no evidence of rust. The trim is in good condition, and the glass is clear. However, the Black stripes and the American Racing Torq Thrust wheels are the most visible signs that there is more to this Ford than meets the eye.

Ford attempted to inject some excitement into the Maverick range by offering buyers the choice of a 302ci V8 producing 210hp and 296 ft/lbs of torque. That blessed the Maverick with Mustang-like performance, but some people will always demand more. The seller is one such individual, ditching this car’s entire drivetrain in favor of something significantly more potent. The starting point was a 347ci Stroker V8, generating over 400hp. There’s no point having so much power if the car can’t effectively apply it to Planet Earth. Therefore, the seller added a five-speed T5 manual transmission, a Stage 3 Specter clutch, and a 3.55 limited-slip rear end. They bolted on headers, installed a dual exhaust, an aluminum radiator, and upgraded the brakes to front discs. They rounded out the package with new springs and shocks. That’s quite a comprehensive upgrade, and it appears that the results justified the cost and effort. The seller states that the Maverick is fast and is fun to drive. Therefore, potential buyers can consider it ready for action once they’ve handed over their cash.

The theme of tidy presentation continues inside this Maverick. Trimmed in Black vinyl, there are no wear issues or other shortcomings. It is quite simply neat and tidy, with the brace of AutoMeter gauges and the Hurst shifter adding a sense of purpose. I can’t spot a radio or stereo, but I’d probably prefer to listen to the sweet music from the V8 than anything on the airwaves. However, it isn’t entirely bare-bones, because the interior features air conditioning to make life pleasant on hot days.

The custom scene always intrigues me. It allows enthusiasts to let their imaginations run wild as they create the classic of their dreams. This 1971 Ford Maverick perfectly demonstrates that approach. It’s an exceptionally tidy vehicle with no apparent paint or panel needs. However, the seller’s decision to squeeze a hot V8 under the hood makes it a surprise packet that would set tongues wagging at a Cars & Coffee. Is the price justified? That’s a tough call, because classics of this type are only worth what someone is willing to pay. I do believe it would be challenging to recreate this Maverick in its current form at the price, although enthusiasts with a DIY bent might succeed. Do you think the seller will taste success, or will a compromise be required for this Ford to find a new home?