Velocity creates the ultimate expression of exclusivity on every modernized classic car it builds, but the transformation of this classic International Scout Traveler stands as one of the most distinctive vehicles in the company’s history—no small claim considering Velocity just celebrated its 500th Bronco! As uncommon as it is to see a “regular” version of the classic International Scout II, finding the extended-length Scout Traveler is pure unobtanium. Velocity had the privilege of transforming this hard-to-find vintage truck into a true modern marvel, and here’s a look back at this one-of-a-kind restomod.
History of the Classic International Scout
The beautiful Sea Mist Turquoise paint job is accented with painted white elements on the roof, bumpers, side stripes, and wheels. Before jumping into this specific Velocity build, here’s a little history to show why the classic International Harvester Scout lineup is so special. In 1961, International Harvester debuted the Scout 80 to compete with the Jeep CJ-5. The Scout 80 was utilitarian in design with a removal top and fold-down windshield, but it increased comfort and practicality over the Jeep with a longer wheelbase, better doors, and available hard top options. The Scout 80 evolved into the Scout 800 series in 1965, bringing even more comfort and added engine options in later years.
Ten years after its introduction, the Scout 80/800 was replaced by the Scout II, easily recognizable by its rectangular taillights and squared-off door openings. In 1976, International stretched the Scout II chassis from 100 inches to 118 inches to create the Terra pickup truck and Traveler SUV with optional three-row seating. Production of the classic International Scout ended in 1980.
Velocity International Scout Traveler Restomod
Fast-forward 40 years, when the owner of this particular 1978 International Scout Traveler commissioned a Velocity restomod build, no expense was spared in the design and execution. This Scout underwent the same exhaustive restoration process as all Velocity classic car restomods, but the level of detail and customization on this build is staggering!
With a beach-vibe motif in mind, the body was painted in an eye-catching Sea Mist Turquoise hue and accented with multiple Harvest Moon elements, including the removable hard top and painted two-tone body stripes. The true gem of this exterior design is the custom three-piece billet OE-style Turbo Fan wheels, painted to match the Harvest Moon accents and complemented with orange Velocity stripes. The exterior alone is enough to make this classic International Scout stand out, but the bespoke interior makes this build an absolute showpiece with flawless craftsmanship and incredible attention to detail.
The highlight of this build is the interior, with its exclusive use of teak trim.Opening the doors reveals three rows of seating wrapped in diamond-stitched upholstery, which can also be found on the dash pad, center console, rear trim panels, and even the removable hard top’s headliner. Not to be outdone by the seating, rich teak wood was used for the flooring, door panels, and rear quarter panels.
To ensure this Scout Traveler drives as good as it looks, the chassis was stripped, powder coated, and upgraded with Wilwood four-wheel disc brakes, Bilstein shocks, and rear air suspension. Under the hood is a 6.2L LS3 V8 rated at 430 horsepower, which is paired with a 47L80 automatic transmission. The Atlas two-speed transfer case splits power to the Dana 44 front axle and Ford 9-inch rear end, ensuring this Scout is ready for any terrain.
Under the hood is a brand-new GM LS3 V8 crate engine rated at 430 hp. What’s Your Velocity?
This 1978 International Scout Traveler was built to maximize form and function. Velocity builds the classic Scout II restomod in limited quantities and currently has available build allocations opening up in 2025. In addition to the classic International Scout, Velocity also creates restomod versions of other iconic American classic cars and trucks. Off-road enthusiasts can choose from the Ford Bronco, Chevy K5 Blazer, and Ford F-250 Highboy, while the Ford Mustang, Ford F-100, and Chevy C10 are geared toward collectors who desire street performance. Each model benefits from pre-determined pricing and build times as soon as 14 weeks! Like the Scout, all Velocity classic car restomods have been completely modernized without losing their vintage appeal.
The second-row captain’s chairs and third-row bench seating are spacious and luxurious. 
Not even the headliner was overlooked as it features interior-matched colors and upholstery.
Custom three-piece billet wheels were created specifically for this build.