Vehicle Description
A 1979 International Harvester Scout Terra is already an
interesting treat. But when you see an example that gives you V8
power, a clean overall look, and a cool pickup body (while still
retaining the removable hardtop) you know you're looking at
something truly special that won't stick around here long.
We love International Harvester Scouts a little more than the other
convertible 4x4s out there just because you know they represent old
school toughness. After all, you had to get them from the same
dealer that was selling farm equipment. But that didn't mean
missing out on style, and this one represents that quite well. The
creamy yellow paint is an update later in life that retains a nice
gloss. There are cool details, like how the fiberglass top is
color-matched and the painted white stripes go well with the
wheels. It has a quality look with the chrome front bumper,
full-length trim, and an overall attractiveness of a well-fitting
body. But don't forget, the Terra was built to be a true pickup.
The wheelbase is 18 inches longer than the standard Scout II. You
have a real truck bed with thick rubber floor mat, rear step
bumper, and a proper trailer hitch with wiring plug. After all, a
cornerstone of International Harvester vehicles is that they always
know how to get to work.
While it is possible to remove the roof for cool open-top cruising,
one look at the interior, and you know this one did not spend much
of its life open to the world. You have a smooth dash, good door
panels, and a classic button-top seating. And new carpeting makes
this quite inviting. This has a classic look, right down to the
three-spoke steering wheel. You'll even spot the correct under-dash
air conditioning unit (it will need servicing to blow ideally
cold.)
International built their own V8 engines for the Scout line, and
those looking for the top dog got the optional 345 cubic-inch motor
like in this one. The consignor believes this is the original motor
and that the odometer has rolled over to reflect closer to 109k
miles. But everything from the bright red on the block to the
updated wiring tells you this has been treated with respect. Topped
with a four-barrel carburetor, this big V8 has plenty of torque so
it never feels like it's working hard. It's mated to a three-speed
automatic transmission for easy driving, and the power steering,
power brakes, and front discs add to this feeling. But any time you
feel like having some fun off the pavement, there's a two-speed 4x4
transfer case that connects to beefy axles at both ends.
Complete with owner's manual, you know there are very few Scout
Terras this striking left out there. So if you're looking for a
distinct classic pickup that looks great while getting the job
done, you know you need this IH. Call now!
