VS
The 1940 Indian Four and 1949 Indian Scout represent two chapters in Indian's storied history.
The 1940 Indian Four from United States was powered by a 1265cc IOE inline-4 producing 40hp at 4800rpm. Weighing 255.0kg (562 lbs) and with a seat height of 680mm, it was aimed at touring riders.
The 1949 Indian Scout by contrast offered 440cc of SV V-twin power, delivering 15hp at 4500rpm. Tipping the scales at 190.0kg (419 lbs) with a top speed of 105km/h (65 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1940s motorcycles, especially military-era models, hold strong collector interest with values reflecting their historical significance.
The 1940 Indian Four from United States was powered by a 1265cc IOE inline-4 producing 40hp at 4800rpm. Weighing 255.0kg (562 lbs) and with a seat height of 680mm, it was aimed at touring riders.
The 1949 Indian Scout by contrast offered 440cc of SV V-twin power, delivering 15hp at 4500rpm. Tipping the scales at 190.0kg (419 lbs) with a top speed of 105km/h (65 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1940s motorcycles, especially military-era models, hold strong collector interest with values reflecting their historical significance.
Specifications Comparison
| 1940 Indian Four | 1949 Indian Scout | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1265 cc | 440 cc |
| Power | 40 hp | 15 hp |
| Torque | 72.0 Nm | 28.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 145 km/h | 105 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 255.0 kg | 190.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 275.0 kg | 205.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 680 mm | 680 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1520 mm | 1400 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 15.0 L | 11.0 L |
| Gears | 3 -speed | 3 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Indian machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1940 Indian Four laid the groundwork with 40hp, while the later 1949 Indian Scout pushed output to 15hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1940 Indian Four holds the edge with a 10/10 rating. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Indian collection.
About the 1940 Indian Four
Indian released the 1940 Indian Four in 1940 with a 1265cc IOE inline-4 powerplant making 40hp — a definitive touring motorcycle.
Full 1940 Indian Four Profile →About the 1949 Indian Scout
Introduced in 1949, the 1949 Indian Scout features a 440cc SV V-twin engine producing 15hp, establishing itself as a notable standard motorcycle.
Full 1949 Indian Scout Profile →