The 1947 Norton International from United Kingdom was powered by a 490cc OHV single producing 29hp at 6000rpm. Weighing 155.0kg (342 lbs) and with a seat height of 780mm, it was aimed at racing riders.
The 1942 Indian Sport Scout, hailing from United States, by contrast offered 745cc of SV V-twin power, delivering 30hp at 5000rpm. Tipping the scales at 195.0kg (430 lbs) with a top speed of 145km/h (90 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
| 1947 Norton International | 1942 Indian Sport Scout | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 490 cc | 745 cc |
| Power | 29 hp | 30 hp |
| Torque | 35.0 Nm | 45.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 1 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 145 km/h | 145 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 155.0 kg | 195.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 168.0 kg | 212.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 780 mm | 690 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1370 mm | 1430 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 12.0 L |
| Gears | 4 -speed | 3 -speed |
The Verdict
These two machines serve fundamentally different purposes. The 1947 Norton International is built for outright circuit racing performance, while the 1942 Indian Sport Scout targets all-round versatility and everyday riding. On paper, the 1942 Indian Sport Scout's 30hp trumps the 1947 Norton International's 29hp, but raw numbers don't tell the whole story in such different segments. Choose the 1947 Norton International if you value outright circuit racing performance; pick the 1942 Indian Sport Scout for all-round versatility and everyday riding.
About the 1947 Norton International
The 1947 1947 Norton International packs a 490cc OHV single engine with 29hp into a racing machine package from Norton.
Full 1947 Norton International Profile →About the 1942 Indian Sport Scout
Introduced in 1942, the 1942 Indian Sport Scout features a 745cc SV V-twin engine producing 30hp, establishing itself as a notable standard motorcycle.
Full 1942 Indian Sport Scout Profile →