Video: Viper-Powered Maverick Out; 1973 Mach 1 Clone In

mach_1_clone_3If you’ve been in the industry for awhile, you’ve certainly heard of the Viper-powered Maverick. Owned by Jason Lewis, this unique build was the one to watch as a Viper V10 engine was set to be squeezed into the engine bay of a classic Ford Maverick. But like so many projects out there, this one became too much and Lewis moved on to something a bit different. Check out his latest project vehicle in the video above!

Lewis is a Hot Rod Magazine and PowerBlock TV alum, having shot automotive videos about everything from new muscle cars to rugged off-road vehicles. He’s also a bit of a jalopy enthusiast, picking up cars that may be overlooked by even your general car lovers and making them into awe-worthy creations. The ’74 Maverick was one such vehicle, one that Lewis picked up for just $300 and aimed to make the first Viper-powered Maverick in the country.

Unfortunately, after a few years, plenty of problems and the death of his good friend and Maverick contributor Mike Fennel, the Viper-powered Ford project finally ended with Lewis’ sights set on something a bit more doable. The Maverick was torn back down and all the performance parts, from the full frame tube chassis and Chris Alston front end to the pumped up Viper V10, were sold off. 

An unfortunate case but one that was bound to come to this end. 

mach_1_cloneLuckily, Lewis didn’t give up his automotive hobby when the Maverick project came to an end and picked up a new car to start building. Sticking with the Ford line-up, Lewis recently picked up a 1973 Mustang Coupe, complete with Cragar wheels, an “upgraded” spoiler and Mach 1 sticker kit. Yes ladies and gents, it is definitely a bucket of a pony car, but Lewis’ Stang maintains the charm of cars from the classic era – ie sloppy steering, rough suspension and a bit less horsepower than desired, all of which Lewis takes in stride. 

But the car won’t stay this way, although Lewis is currently enjoying the setup for his daily commute. In fact, Lewis has some pretty big plans for the car, including cleaning her up and making her into a nice touring car with maybe even a bit of sporty fun to be had.

mach_1_clone_2

The ultimate goal? Focusing on this single project and seeing it through to the end. 

Things that will remain? The Nyan Cat sticker, otherwise known as the Pop Tart Cat, on the fan shroud and the built-in cup holder, at least for now.

Everyone’s got to have their favorite components of a car no matter how jalopy, right?

If you’re interested in following the “Mach 1 Clone” and its build process, be sure to subscribe to Lewis’ YouTube channel. He’s already started posting upgrade videos, including one where he installs sport seats and a main roll hoop in the car, and another where he welds the differential before hooning the hell out of the Mustang. Check out the latest video in the build series below!

About the author

Lindsey Fisher

Lindsey is a freelance writer and lover of anything with a rumble. Hot rods, muscle cars, motorcycles - she's owned and driven it all. When she's not busy writing about them, she's out in her garage wrenching away. Who doesn't love a tech-savy gal that knows her way around a garage?
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