If you’re a vintage truck enthusiast, you’ve probably heard of the International Harvester Scout®. While the IH truck is no longer a predominant part of the open road, the Scout model was once a household name across America. Here are a few other facts about the Scout.

What to Know About the IH Scout Truck

1. It Was Created in Under Two Years

Two years seems like a substantial amount of time to create a new car today. However, this was a remarkable feat when the International Harvester’s first model, the Scout 80, hit the market since it wasn’t manufactured by the three main automakers. It was also designed with modern amenities such as sliding rear windows, vacuum-operated windshield wipers, and a vibrant color palette.

2. The Scout 800 Had a Revolutionary Engine

Produced in 1967, the Scout’s 800 model included a 266ci V8 engine. With its release, this IH truck was the first commercial vehicle with a turbocharged engine.

3. It Became a Popular Race Car

Several models of the International Harvester Scout were popular in the racing world in the 1960s and 1970s. It first appeared in a race in 1969 when Jimmy Ray Jones entered the Scout 800 in the National Off Road Racing Association’s® Baja 1000 and placed 13th. The IH truck’s biggest win came in 1977 when the Scout SS II won the 4x4 class in the Baja 1000 almost two hours ahead of second place.

4. The Scout Paved the Way for SUVs

Although it was designed as a competitor to the primitive, rugged Jeep®, the International Harvester Scout became the predecessor to today’s sports utility vehicles. Designed to prioritize the driver’s comfort, original IH truck models included features prevalent in today’s SUVs such as comfortable bucket seats, four-wheel drive, soft folding tops, and even turbocharged engines.

If you’re searching for a classic truck periodical, subscribe to Vintage Truck magazine. Published out of Xenia, OH, this magazine prints essential content and advice for vintage truck enthusiasts, including tips from experienced mechanics, engaging columns, and exciting features. The publication has readers from across the nation, so if you want to learn about restoring, maintaining, and working on trucks, it’s your one-stop shop. Call (937) 767-1433 or visit the website to learn more about the magazine’s subscription packages.