To Be OFFERED AT AUCTION WITHOUT RESERVE at RM Sothebys' Arizona
event, 17 - 18 January 2019.
Estimate:
$70,000 - $90,000
- Concours-quality restoration by marque expert
- Restored to Super Sport II specifications using original and
NOS parts
- Ready to show or go, on and off the road
By 1971, competition within the off-roader market was heating up.
Ford's Bronco, the new Chevy Blazer, and Jeep's CJ and Wagoneer
were all vying for buyers in the fast-growing segment.
International Harvester, playing the role of underdog, responded
with its new Scout II. The Scout II was larger than the Scout 800
it replaced, with fresh new styling that was more modern yet still
retained the Scout's basic, rugged appeal. But perhaps the most
successful of the Scout specials had to be the purposeful, stripped
out, bare-bones Super Scout II.
The SS II was built for sheer off-road enjoyment. Standard steel
doors were eschewed in favor of Bronco roadster-inspired fiberglass
inserts and removable, soft-sided doors. The fiberglass top was
replaced by a simple, removable soft vinyl canopy on a light frame,
and a roll bar was mounted behind the front seats. Outside,
distinct ABS plastic inserts are fitted to the grille and tailgate
along with a graphics applique package and white painted "wagon
wheel" rims, with raised white letter off-road tires.
The outstanding 1978 Scout on offer has been impeccably restored.
During restoration, a standard Scout II was upgraded to
factory-correct SS II specification. It was expertly prepped and
painted inside and out in the factory-correct shade of Omaha
Orange. Original-style door inserts were then fitted - correctly
presented in bare satin black with exposed hardware. Original
graphics were reproduced and applied to the quarters and front
fenders, and other correct SS II parts such as the flares, ABS
plastic grille and tailgate inserts, and complete soft top and door
set were sourced from noted IH Scout experts. Bare painted floors,
correct for the SS II, are protected by correct IH branded rubber
floor mats. The bucket seats, center console, and tilt steering
column are also part of the SS II package. The only deviation from
standard is the plain black seat upholstery; a correct material and
pattern for standard Scouts, and a more attractive option.
The frame has been fully media blasted and refinished in correct
satin black powder coat for a long lasting and durable finish.
Under the hood is the International's 345-cu. in. V-8, which is
fully detailed; it is backed by a freshly refurbished Torqueflite
automatic transmission and integrated transfer case. Power disc
brakes and power steering help make it an easy and enjoyable drive
while, for safety and usability, a poly fuel tank replaces the
original steel tank.
This is an audacious period piece that is a great alternative to
more commonplace classic off-roaders, and a fabulous expression of
late 1970s style. Few International Harvester Scouts have been
restored with such attention to detail, and this outstanding truck
is ready for show or enjoyment, on and off the road.To view this
car and others currently consigned to this auction, please visit
the RM website at rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/az19.