What Is A Maverick?

We’re hearing the word Maverick a lot the election cycle. But what is a Maverick anyway?

A dictionary definition of maverick is:

mav·er·ick (mvr-k, mvrk)

n.

1. An unbranded range animal, especially a calf that has become separated from its mother, traditionally considered the property of the first person who brands it.

2. One that refuses to abide by the dictates of or resists adherence to a group; a dissenter.

adj.

Being independent in thought and action or exhibiting such independence: maverick politicians; a maverick decision.

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[Possibly after Samuel Augustus Maverick (1803-1870), American cattleman who left the calves in his herd unbranded .]

Hmm, OK. We know that Palin likes to shoot unbranded animals.

The car guy in me cannot help but think of the Ford model every time I hear Tina Fey impersonating Palin and saying Mavericky.

Ford gave the Maverick an 8-year run, something I hope American voters do not give Palin.

After 8 years with Maverick, Ford dropped the name — they never used it again. It was supposed to be an economical car but it proved too heavy to live up to that promise. It also has serious rust issues.

When introduced many people fell for the Maverick but sales tapered off after after a strong initial showing. Buyers realized the competition was much more capable of meeting their needs.

Initially it was only available as a 2-door model but sticking to that formula limited the appeal to a broader base and a 4-door version was added later. The first few years the Maverick lacked a glove box.

The Ford Granada/Mercury Monarch (1975-82) was designed to replace the Maverick but they worked together on showroom floor for a few years. However, sales of the Maverick dropped after the Granada was introduced – it really wasn’t what buyers wanted.

The Maverick was built on a modified Ford Falcon platform dating to 1960.  Thus it was the same old thing they had been selling but dressed up in a younger skin.  It was outdated by the time it hit the showroom floors.  The competition was entirely new & fresh making the Maverick look even more dated.

After 8 years Ford put an end to the Maverick.