1973 International Harvester Scout II Restomod Packs 455 HP LT1 V8
by AutoExpert | 24 February, 2026
While the new electric Scout from Scout Motors keeps making headlines, some people are looking in the opposite direction. Instead of waiting for a modern EV version of the classic 4x4, they would rather take the original and give it serious muscle.
That is exactly what Velocity Restorations in Florida has been doing. Their latest build started life as a 1973 International Scout II, but calling it “restored” almost feels unfair. This thing has been completely reworked from the ground up.
Underneath, it rides on a brand-new chassis from Roadster Shop. Gone is the old-school truck setup. In its place, you get a modern suspension with a four-link rear, coilovers on all corners, and sway bars front and rear. It also gets Wilwood disc brakes all around, which is a big step up from what these trucks had back in the day.
The real headline, though, is what sits under the hood.
Instead of the original modest engines, this Scout packs a 6.2-liter LT1 V8 from General Motors. This is the same engine found in the Chevrolet Corvette Stingray and the sixth-generation Chevrolet Camaro. It makes 455 horsepower, which is a wild number for a boxy old 4x4.
Power goes through a 10-speed 10L80 automatic transmission that GM developed together with Ford. Up front, there is a Dana 44 axle, and at the rear, a Dana 60. Add 35-inch BF Goodrich KM3 mud-terrain tires, and you have something that looks vintage but is ready to climb just about anything.
Visually, it keeps the 70s vibe alive. The brown and off-white two-tone paint, called Harvest Moon, feels straight out of another era. Chrome accents and painted 18-inch steel wheels complete the look. It feels nostalgic without looking tired.
Inside, it is wrapped in brown leather with matching carpet, but you still get modern touches like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Focal sound system. So you get the classic feel without giving up comfort or tech.
This specific build is already sold, which tells you there is serious demand for these kinds of machines. Velocity does have a couple more Scouts coming soon, but be ready for the price. Each is listed at 407,900 dollars.
That is a lot of money for an old 4x4. But when you mix vintage style, modern engineering, and a Corvette-sourced V8, it is hard not to see the appeal.
