Ford Maverick I gallery (1969–1977)

The first-generation Ford Maverick was introduced in April 1969 as an early 1970 model. Designed as an affordable subcompact/compact import fighter to counter rising competition from European and Japanese economy cars like the Volkswagen Beetle, the Maverick was built on a rear-wheel-drive platform derived from the Falcon. Initially offered strictly as a two-door fastback coupe, a four-door sedan joined the lineup for 1971.

Engines included Thriftmaster inline-six units in 170 ci, 200 ci, and 250 ci displacements, along with a 302 ci (4.9L) Small Block Windsor V8. The sporty Grabber package added twin dual hood scoops, rear spoiler graphics, and rally wheels. Over 2.7 million units were produced across plants in North America and South America through 1977.