SR2 Tribute: 1965 International Scout 800 – Sold?

November 16th Update: We just confirmed the Craigslist ad for this vintage Scout expired and with no replacement listing found, we’re assuming this IH sold.  This one may have got away, but if you have your heart set on something similar, email us the details of what you’re looking for or call Rudy directly at (908)295-7330

With all of the recent hype surrounding the reintroduction of Ford’s Bronco to compete with Jeep’s Wrangler, it’s easy to forget Ford’s first-generation compact SUV was actually a competitive response to the International Harvester Scout such as this fully restored 1965 800 listed in October 2020 on Craigslis in Everett-Breezewood, Pennsylvania with an asking price of $35,000. A quick check of the Collector Car Market Review Online Tool confirms the current ask is nearly five thousand higher than the #1 “Excellent” estimate of $30,450. However, the Hagerty Insurance Online Valuation Tool confirms this private seller has his Scout priced just below the #1 “Concours” appraisal of $35,300.

Truck and Farm Equipment Manufacturer International Harvester (“IH”) ventured into the consumer market in 1961 with the launch of its Scout 80.  It was such a success, IH relaced the original model with the Scout 800 for the 1965 model year. Produced through 1968, Scout 800s had many improvements in comfort and design, including bucket seats, better instrumentation, improved heating systems, updated dashboard, optional rear seats, and optional 196 four-cylinder (from 1966), or 232 inline-six. Beginning in March 1967, a 266 ci V8 engine was also offered. Externally, changes were limited to an anodized aluminum grille with a rectangular “International” logo placed on the grille, the IH badge was moved to the hood, the door handles became the button type, and the tailgate no longer included opening “hooks”.  The base engine was a naturally aspirated “Comanche” 152 four-cylinder with 93 hp (69 kW), of which a turbocharged version with 111 hp (83 kW) (the 152-T) was also offered. In August 1966, the turbo version was complemented by the bigger 196 which used less fuel with exactly the same power. The 196 motor achieved 20 mpg.  The turbo version was dropped in early 1968. The fold-down windshield was still available, code 16536, but few were ordered because this was not advertised.

This vintage Australian commercial from 1965 introduced International Harvester’s Scout 80 to that market:

With first-generation Ford Bronco prices achieving astronomical results currently, this fully restored Scout 800 makes a compelling, albeit not cheap, alternative.  Hopefully either your in-person or professional pre-purchase inspection confirms the condition of this Scout shown in the Craigslist post and if so, good luck with the purchase!

Here’s the seller’s description:

“Ready to show and drive anywhere, anytime. Needs nothing!
The steel travel top comes off, and looks awesome!!!!!
Well maintained original, never taken apart or restored. Repainted one time, paint is a number 8 on a scale of 1-10. Older paint show a few minor scratches, but the paint still shows well.
Original 40,324 miles, with documented ownership history since new. “Cars are only original once” this Scout has a rich history, photos of it are in the current FALL EDITION OF “CORNBINDER” magazine. I purchased it from a man whose family owned an International Harvester dealership.
I have “dolled up” the Scout making it an SR2 Tribute Scout, by adding these factory options.
– Rallye Wheels
-SR2 Stripes
-Spare tire mount
-Chrome Bumpers (aftermarket
This Scout is well maintained and is mechanically sound, ready for what ever kind of roadtrip you may desire.
Fresh new : tires, shocks,wheel cylinders, seals, new exhaust ,etc.
Interior is in excellant original condition as show in the pictures, gold vinyl is still soft and clean.
Notice the factory control sticker still atttach to the door 55 years later.
No oil leaks on the garage floor, gackets have been replaced. No rust issues, factory undercoated.
I have a clear title in my also documented ownership history,and some maintaince records. Call or text; 814-617-0695“

Do you have a Scout 800 story you’d like to share?  Comment below and let us know!