A car doesn’t necessarily have to be ultra-desirable to be interesting. Take this 1972 Ford Maverick as a perfect example. The company launched it as affordable family transport, but you will struggle to find a nice one today. This Maverick is a gem, ready to take the whole family on summer vacations. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Tony P. for spotting it listed here on Craigslist in Eugene, Oregon. The seller set their price at $11,950 for a car needing nothing.
Ford launched the Maverick in 1970, proving that old saying that everything old is new again. The stylish body hid a platform dating back to the 1960 Falcon, but that was potentially good news. It meant that the underpinnings were well-proven and that the Maverick didn’t have any potentially nasty surprises. This 1972 example is in excellent condition for its age, with no major cosmetic shortcomings. The paint shines nicely, the panels are straight, and there is no rust to spoil the ownership experience. The trim is in good condition, and the glass is clear. What sets this car apart is its vinyl roof and the color-coded wheel covers. These items were part of the Luxury Decor Option (LDO) Package introduced by Ford late in the 1972 model year. It also brought some welcome interior upgrades.
The interior images reveal the remaining items forming the LDO Package. It included seats trimmed in supple vinyl, plush carpet, and faux woodgrain on the dash. The first owner added air conditioning and an AM radio. Once again, the presentation is first-rate. The Beige vinyl is in good condition and, like the carpet, isn’t badly worn or stained. The dash and pad are excellent, and there are no visible aftermarket additions beyond the wheel cover and removable console.
Powering this Maverick is a 250ci six. This motor isn’t a fireball, delivering a mere 98hp and 183 ft/lbs of torque. The figures could be diplomatically described as modest. When paired with this car’s three-speed automatic transmission and power steering, it is more of a relaxed cruiser than a bruising performer. There is plenty of good news for prospective buyers. The seller recently replaced the starter, plugs, points, and condenser, and rebuilt the carburetor. The car runs and drives beautifully, and is a turnkey proposition with no identified mechanical issues.
Forced sales are typically sad, as demonstrated by this 1972 Ford Maverick. The seller indicates that they would prefer to keep it, but they have lost storage space, so this classic has to go. The price might be high, but it is one of the nicest unmolested examples we have seen at Barn Finds for a long time. It isn’t the most desirable car on the planet, but would its overall condition and practicality tempt you to park it in your garage?
I’m sure that the wheel covers are not aftermarket and are part of the LDO package. I clearly remember our neighbor’s maverick having the same ones. Gran Torinos of this vintage also had the same color coordinated wheel covers as part of the LDO package.
I remain amazed at how well cars like this are preserved in the pacific NW.
I assume he meant the “steering” wheel cover was aftermarket.
Wow!!! This is one super clean early Maverick. I like the 4 doors just as much as the two doors. I remember those color keyed wheel covers too. I don’t remember ever seeing a 4 door with the nice seats like this. I completely agree with Adam, this was a well proven and durable platform it was built on. It’s sad it’s a forced sale, but I really hope this goes to a great new home with a nice garage. Its survived very well over all these years. Nice one Adam and Tony P.!!!
These LDO Mavericks were very nicely trimmed. I think they were introduced mid-1972, which means… small bumpers. Seems like I recall that they sold well. This one looks like it has had excellent care. It’s not fast and (gasp) it has four doors, but it would still make for a fun cruiser.
Bob definitely something to cruise in but to be honest doubt I would have much fun. This was a people mover, I must admit it’s in great condition for a basically disposable car of the time.
yes, stock LDO wheel covers, the 250 cu in 6 was sufficient, only thing better would be same car but in the light blue and no vinyl top. This is a very nice 4-door maverick, would take it for sure.
You cast it out there Terry M and i am going to bite. The only thing better would be any Ford vehicle other than a Mustang II, Pinto, and of course a Maverick.