Velocity Modernizes the International Harvester Scout II

We’ve written about vehicles created by Velocity Restorations before, including a 1970 Ford F-100, Chevrolet C10 pickup, and 1970 Chevrolet K5 Blazer.

Given the justified uproar about the new Scout that Volkswagen just displayed, it’s no surprise that the tuner, based in Pensacola, Florida, would turn its attention to a vintage International Harvester Scout II. The Scout II was available with a V-8, sure, but a 460-horsepower GM LT1 V-8? Well, that, in a nutshell, is what Velocity does.

The company has formally added the 1971–1980 Scout II to its lineup of restomods. Besides that LT1 engine, Velocity’s Scout got a 10-speed automatic transmission, a Roadster Shop chassis with custom suspension, including Fox shocks, and modern luxuries such as Vintage Air climate control and a Focal sound system. Says Velocity: “The Velocity Scout II is designed to provide modern performance and reliability while maintaining its original charm.”

The Velocity Scout also gets Dana front and rear axles, a Wilwood four-wheel disc brake package, and a custom-built performance exhaust.

Outside, the Scout received a custom Glasurit paint job, unique body graphics, and an optional, OEM-style hardtop. JWSpeaker LED headlights are set in a bespoke grill with chrome bumpers. Tires are 35-inch BFGoodrich All-Terrains wrapped around 18-inch MT Bullet polished alloy wheels. Optional upgrades include specialty graphics and a blackout package which includes a full chrome delete and 18-inch black Method alloy wheels.

Inside, each Scout will come standard with a custom six-point rollcage and a safari top for a safe open-air driving experience. Front bucket seats exclusive to Velocity and a rear bench are available in marine-grade vinyl or custom leather. A Dakota Digital gauge cluster, also unique to Velocity, and a wooden steering wheel are attached to a tilting steering column from Ididit.

“The International Scout is legendary in the classic 4×4 space,” said Stuart Wilson, Velocity’s CEO and founder. “Our team has been building custom Scouts for years and we’re excited to bring that experience with this platform to our Signature Series lineup. The Velocity Scout II represents a revival of the all-American off-road icon.”

The Velocity Scout II will serve as Velocity’s seventh line of modernized classic vehicles. Velocity is now taking reservations for the first Scouts, with deliveries scheduled for spring 2025. To get in line, log on to VelocityRestorations.com. And be prepared to break open the piggy bank: Past Velocity turnkey vehicles we’ve covered have cost upwards of $300,000.