VS
The 1949 Triumph Thunderbird 6T and 1942 Indian Sport Scout are both iconic 1940s standards that defined their respective markets.
The 1949 Triumph Thunderbird 6T from United Kingdom was powered by a 649cc OHV twin producing 34hp at 6000rpm. Weighing 180.0kg (397 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, it was aimed at standard 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.
The 1949 Triumph Thunderbird 6T from United Kingdom was powered by a 649cc OHV twin producing 34hp at 6000rpm. Weighing 180.0kg (397 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, it was aimed at standard 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
| 1949 Triumph Thunderbird 6T | 1942 Indian Sport Scout | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 649 cc | 745 cc |
| Power | 34 hp | 30 hp |
| Torque | 47.0 Nm | 45.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 158 km/h | 145 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 180.0 kg | 195.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 193.0 kg | 212.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 790 mm | 690 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1400 mm | 1430 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 15.0 L | 12.0 L |
| Gears | 4 -speed | 3 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure standard performance, the 1949 Triumph Thunderbird 6T has the edge thanks to more power (34hp vs 30hp) and a higher top speed and lower weight. The 1942 Indian Sport Scout, however, excels when all-round versatility and everyday riding is the priority. Parts availability is moderate for the 1949 Triumph Thunderbird 6T and difficult for the 1942 Indian Sport Scout — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1949 Triumph Thunderbird 6T
The 1949 1949 Triumph Thunderbird 6T is a 649cc twin-cylinder standard motorcycle that became one of Triumph's most memorable motorcycles of the 1940s.
Full 1949 Triumph Thunderbird 6T 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 →