What is the top speed of the 1974 Ford Maverick?
The top speed of the 1974 Maverick varied by engine and drivetrain. In general, base six-cylinder models reached roughly 90–95 mph, while V8-equipped versions could approach 110–120 mph in optimal conditions.
Engine options and observed performance
The Maverick was offered with a range of inline-six engines and, for certain trims, a V8 option. The figures below are approximate and depend on the car’s condition, transmission, axle ratio, tires, and aerodynamics.
- 170 cu in (2.8 L) inline-six: approximately 90–95 mph (145–153 km/h).
- 200 cu in (3.3 L) inline-six: approximately 95–100 mph (153–161 km/h).
- 250 cu in (4.1 L) inline-six: approximately 105–110 mph (169–177 km/h).
- 302 cu in (5.0 L) V8: approximately 110–120 mph (177–193 km/h).
These values reflect stock configurations from the era; aftermarket tuning or changes to gearing can alter top speed significantly.
Transmission and gearing influence
Gearbox choices and rear-axle ratios played a sizable role in the Maverick’s final top speed. The car shipped with a range of transmissions, and the same engine could yield different top speeds depending on the final-drive ratio and tire diameter.
- Manual transmissions (3- or 4-speed) with common rear-axle gears generally produced higher practical top speeds when paired with the V8 and/or taller rear gears.
- Automatic transmissions, common with the six-cylinder engines, often resulted in slightly lower peak speeds due to torque conversion and tuning for driveability.
In practice, V8 models with manual gearing offered the best chance of reaching the upper end of the 110–120 mph range, while base six-cylinders tended to stay toward the lower end of the spectrum.
Summary
The top speed of the 1974 Ford Maverick varied primarily by engine choice and gearing. Base inline-sixes typically topped out around 90–100 mph, whereas V8-equipped Mavericks could reach roughly 110–120 mph in ideal conditions. Real-world performance depends on axle ratio, transmission, tires, weight, and overall condition.
