If you’re debating between a vintage International Scout and a Ford Bronco, here are five reasons why the Scout might be the better choice:
Some History
What’s a Scout?
The International Harvester Scout was introduced in 1960 as one of American’s first compact SUVs, designed to compete with Jeep. International Harvester was a company known for its agricultural and industrial equipment, but also for its reliable heavy duty trucks. In this spirit, IH built the Scout to be a rugged, off-road-capable vehicle with a utilitarian design.
The first generation, the Scout 80, featured a removable hard or soft top, a fold-down windshield, and a simple, durable four-cylinder engine. Over the years, the Scout evolved, with the Scout 800 (1965–1971) introducing more comfort and refinement, followed by the Scout II (1971–1980), which offered a wider range of engines, improved styling, and increased off-road capability.
Despite its strong following, International Harvester ceased production of the Scout in 1980 due to financial struggles. Today, the Scout remains a beloved classic among off-road enthusiasts and collectors, known for its durability, versatility, and pioneering role in the SUV market.
1.) Affordability
The most obvious is that they are cheaper to buy. Prices can vary a lot depending on the condition of the vehicle and what options are on it.
The average sale price for an International Scout 2 (1971–1980), is about $35,000 US dollars while the average first generation Bronco (1966–1977) is about $83,000 US dollars.
If you wanted to go with a Scout 80 (1960-1965) or Scout 800, (1965–1971) they are still cheaper, averaging $44,000 and $36,000 US dollars respectively.
A second generation Bronco on the other hand will average about $82,000 US dollar.
Prices for Scouts are on the rise as more people learn about their history and unique designs. This is just another reason to own a Scout now before they get out of your price range. And who knows it might become an investment opportunity. Or at least that’s what you can tell your wife.
2.) Unique Design & Variety
The Scout has a distinct, boxy, industrial look that sets it apart from the Bronco. With its rugged farm-equipment heritage (thanks to International Harvester), it carries a unique utilitarian charm that isn’t as mass-market as the Bronco.
The truck division of International Harvester was known for customization. If you could think it up, they would build it. This was no truer than with the Scout. There were a wide variety of options available from choice of diesel or gasoline engines, suspension, wheel bases, trim levels and interior options. The choices were almost endless.
This level of customization made the Scout appealing to a broad range of buyers, from farmers and ranchers who needed a tough, no-frills workhorse to off-road enthusiasts looking for a capable and unique 4×4. Unlike the Bronco, which had a more standardized approach to trims and configurations, the Scout could be tailored to nearly any purpose. Whether you wanted a bare-bones utility vehicle with vinyl seats and manual everything, or a more refined model with plush carpeting, air conditioning, and bucket seats, International Harvester made it possible.
3.) Rarity & Exclusivity
While classic Ford Broncos, especially first-gens, are highly sought after, they are also quite common in the collector market. International Scouts, on the other hand, are significantly rarer, making them stand out at shows, off-road events, and among enthusiasts.
But this rarity comes at a price. One of the fears of owning a Scout was the fact that parts were not readily available. Since they didn’t build as many, there’s just not as many parts around and since they’re not as popular, many companies were not making aftermarket parts.
That’s starting to change. Manufacturing methods are getting cheaper, Scout enthusiasts are creating solutions for aftermarket parts and the number of companies building aftermarket parts is growing.
4.) Built Tougher for Work & Off-Roading
Owners will tell you the Scout is built for tougher work and off-roading. There’s truth to this statement. International was known for decades for building tough, reliable trucks that were almost unmatched in the industry. Despite being a much smaller company than the big three automakers, International held its own as one of the top 5 truck builders in the United States.
The Scouts were built with heavy-duty agricultural-grade components, making them incredibly rugged and reliable. Unlike the Bronco, which leaned slightly more toward the mainstream SUV market, the Scout was always meant to be a workhorse, excelling in off-road and tough environments.
This toughness was evident in every aspect of the Scout’s construction. The frame was built thicker and stronger than many of its competitors, borrowing from International’s larger truck lineup. Axles, differentials, and suspension components were designed to handle extreme loads and harsh terrain, making the Scout a favorite among ranchers, farmers, and outdoor enthusiasts who needed a vehicle that could take a beating.
Even the body panels were known for their durability, often outlasting those of other vehicles from the same era, though they did have a notorious tendency to rust if not properly maintained.
Off-road capability was at the core of the Scout’s design. With factory options like limited-slip differentials, heavy-duty suspension packages, and selectable four-wheel drive, the Scout was more than capable of tackling rugged trails, deep mud, and rocky terrain. High ground clearance, a short wheelbase (on certain models), and excellent approach and departure angles gave it an advantage in technical off-road conditions.
5.) Less Overhyped & More Authentic
There’s not much else to say. It’s not a Bronco. It seems everyone wants a Bronco. But you, yes you can be different and a trend setter and make the Scout just a popular.
The vintage Bronco market has been heavily influenced by trends, celebrity ownership, and high-profile restorations, driving prices sky-high and making some restorations feel more about looks than function.
Scouts, by contrast, remain an underappreciated gem, often owned by true enthusiasts who value their heritage and capability over just the hype.
Thoughts?
So you think I’m wrong?
Write your responses in the comments below. I might just read them.
By Antique Tractor Life 2025
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