1974 Ford Maverick Grabber 302 from North America

Summary:

Was a blast to drive

Faults:

Freeze plug leaked.

General Comments:

Loved my Maverick. The first car for me and my family. Small, hauled ass. Handled well. Was a blast to drive. Wish I still had it.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 21st March, 2016

24th Mar 2016, 03:19

How long did you have it?

27th Mar 2016, 03:43

I had a ride in one of these in West Chester NY back in 1974 - what a blast!!!

Even with the A/C cranked up, 4 people in the car, and too much spark retard (thanks EPA!!!), the 302 could not be held down - the car got up and went!!!

In reply to 27th Mar 2016, 03:43

9th Mar 2017, 23:24

One trip in a mundane Maverick that you still remember 40+ years later?

Must have been quite a ride...

In reply to 9th Mar 2017, 23:24

10th Mar 2017, 12:29

They have been on the drag strip. With engine transplants etc. Plus this is a 302 - you could mod it.

In reply to 10th Mar 2017, 12:29

10th Mar 2017, 21:34

Yeah, on the drag strip with the A/C cranked up and 4 people in the car.

In reply to 10th Mar 2017, 21:34

11th Mar 2017, 18:28

Go to YouTube - there are pages upon pages of street strip versions, running 9's. The size and weight is great for racing. Sure they are not running stock drivetrains. Take a look.

1974 Ford Maverick Grabber 302 from North America

Summary:

Fast, reliable and fun

Faults:

Alternator- hey, it's 26 years old.

Emissions stuff (now gone).

Suspension squeaks.

General Comments:

Great car, a blast to drive, I have a 351w on the way for it, should prove interesting.

Larger back tires help the car more than you would believe. 275-60-15 will fit (barely).

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 27th August, 2000

3rd Nov 2001, 01:28

Mavericks rock! I've got a 1977 2 door Maverick.

13th Mar 2003, 18:57

I have 2 mavericks a 77&74 77 has a 60 over 302 the 74 is waiting on a 347 stroker I'm going to have me some fun.

2nd Apr 2006, 18:17

My first car was a 1974 Maverick 4-door sedan with a 250 ci six and an automatic. It ran great for me until its timing chain went, and at the time, I couldn't afford to repair it. It was still a very well-made car that was great on gas.

20th Dec 2006, 15:12

I'm not a big fan of Mavericks, but I am a big fan of sleepers. It seems to me that a '74 Maverick Grabber would make a very good sleeper car that could be unleashed on unsuspecting rivals.

1st Feb 2009, 12:57

I had a 1970 Grabber that came stock with a 6cid 250 when I was 16. It was O.K., but it needed something. My first shot was to overhaul it and modify bore .60 over, 3/4 racing cam and dome pistons reinforced valve spring... Oh I almost forgot I planed the intake and put a Tri-power system with 3 2barrel carburetors manual linkage and put a stall speed in the Trans 2000rpm. As you could guess, if you have ever had a car with a 6cid, they are torque under 40mph but top out because of valve problem drove it and race it (Bremerton, WA Speedway) for about 3 years.

Got tired of the valve problem so replaced the 250 with a 351w with twin turbos (not turbo mufflers). Didn't have to modify the engine compartment, but changing spark plugs was an all day event...

My next is a fuel injected 460 bored to a 514 and c-6 auto 2000 stall speed, I have to modify the engine compartment to make it fit and trans cowling inside the maverick. Shock tower cut and shortened and reinforced frame. It is cheaper than doing a 67 fastback Mustang. Mavericks are making a come back and are easier to find than others.

Lloyd.

In reply to 1st Feb 2009, 12:57

24th Mar 2016, 00:46

I still say go with a classic Mustang. My family has restored 3. Strong in every area. Appeal, desirability, parts support and resale.