1979 International Scout Terra

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!