INTRODUCTION

The 1978 International Scout II is a classic American off-road vehicle known for its rugged charm and utility. Built by International Harvester, the Scout II offers a versatile combination of performance, design, and off-road capability. It quickly became a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts, farmers, and those who sought a durable and reliable SUV that could handle rough terrain while still offering comfort and practicality for everyday use.

HISTORY & ORIGINS

The Scout II was the second generation of International Harvester’s Scout lineup, following the original Scout that debuted in 1961. By 1978, the Scout II had evolved with improved features, styling, and engineering to make it more appealing to a broader market. International Harvester, a company renowned for its agricultural machinery and heavy-duty trucks, aimed to compete with the growing popularity of off-road vehicles like the Jeep CJ series and the Ford Bronco. The 1978 model year represented the last full production run for the Scout II before the vehicle was discontinued in 1980, marking the end of the Scout era.

ENGINE & PERFORMANCE OPTIONS

The 1978 Scout II came with several engine options, catering to a variety of preferences and needs. The base engine was a 4.2-liter inline-six (232 cubic inches) producing around 93 horsepower. For those seeking more power, there was an optional 5.0-liter V8 engine (304 cubic inches) that made about 150 horsepower. The most powerful engine available was the 5.7-liter V8 (345 cubic inches), offering 170 horsepower.

Transmission options included a 3-speed manual, a 4-speed manual, or a 3-speed automatic, depending on the buyer’s preference for performance and ease of driving. The Scout II featured a rugged 4×4 drivetrain, making it an ideal choice for off-road adventures.

DESIGN & FEATURES

The design of the 1978 Scout II combined classic boxy lines with functional, utilitarian features. Its short wheelbase and wide stance provided a stable platform for off-roading. The Scout II came as either a two-door hardtop or with an optional soft-top, giving drivers the flexibility to customize their vehicle based on weather or lifestyle preferences.

Inside, the Scout II was relatively simple but practical, with vinyl seats and durable materials designed to withstand the wear and tear of outdoor use. The dashboard was straightforward, with basic gauges and controls. Standard features included a heater, a basic radio, and adjustable seats. Higher trim models offered more comfort with options like air conditioning and power steering.

TRIM LEVELS & VARIANTS

The 1978 Scout II was available in a few key variants. The standard model was the base Scout II, which was offered in a no-frills configuration with a manual transmission and the smaller engine options. The higher trims included the Scout II Traveler, which featured an extended wheelbase and additional cargo space, making it ideal for those needing more capacity for long trips or family use.

Another notable variant was the Scout II Rallye, which offered more upscale features, including unique decals, color schemes, and upgraded interior options. It also had larger wheels and tires for better off-road performance.

SAFETY & TECHNOLOGY

For the era, the 1978 Scout II was equipped with basic safety features. Standard features included seat belts for all passengers and heavy-duty bumpers. There were no airbags or advanced safety technologies, as these were not commonly available in vehicles of this age. However, the Scout II was designed with ruggedness and durability in mind, and its heavy-duty frame provided a high level of protection during collisions.

In terms of technology, the Scout II was relatively sparse. There were no modern infotainment systems or advanced driver assistance features. However, it did have options for power steering and air conditioning in higher trims.

FUEL ECONOMY & EFFICIENCY

The fuel economy of the 1978 International Scout II varied depending on the engine and drivetrain configuration. The inline-six engine offered the best fuel efficiency, with an average of around 13-15 miles per gallon (mpg) on the highway. The V8 models, especially the larger 345-cubic-inch engine, saw a drop in efficiency, achieving around 10-12 mpg on the highway. While the Scout II wasn’t known for its fuel efficiency, it was built for performance and off-road capability, which were its main selling points.

MARKET COMPARISON

In comparison to other off-road vehicles available in 1978, the Scout II was a strong contender. It competed directly with the Jeep CJ-7 and Ford Bronco, both of which were known for their off-road abilities. The Scout II offered more comfort and interior space compared to the CJ-7, making it more versatile for family or work use. However, the Jeep had a more established off-road reputation and a broader aftermarket parts market.

The Ford Bronco, meanwhile, was similarly rugged and more widely recognized, with a larger dealer network, but the Scout II was often praised for its reliability and unique charm. The Scout was often considered a niche vehicle, appealing to those looking for something different from the mainstream options.

PRICING

In 1978, the price of a base Scout II ranged from approximately $7,000 to $9,000, depending on the chosen trim level and options. The higher-end models, such as the Rallye or Traveler, could cost upwards of $10,000 when fully equipped. This placed the Scout II in the same price range as other off-road vehicles of the time, like the Jeep CJ-7 and Ford Bronco. Given its strong off-road performance and versatile design, the Scout II offered good value for those looking for an adventure-ready SUV.

NOTABLE AWARDS & ACCOLADES

While the 1978 International Scout II did not earn significant mainstream automotive awards, it gained a reputation for its durability and capability in off-road environments. The Scout II developed a loyal following among enthusiasts and has since become a sought-after classic among off-road vehicle collectors. Its contributions to the off-road market, especially in the late 1970s, are well-regarded by enthusiasts who appreciate its raw, utilitarian design and no-nonsense performance.