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 1949 Indian Scout, hailing from United States, 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
| 1947 Norton International | 1949 Indian Scout | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 490 cc | 440 cc |
| Power | 29 hp | 15 hp |
| Torque | 35.0 Nm | 28.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 1 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 145 km/h | 105 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 155.0 kg | 190.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 168.0 kg | 205.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 780 mm | 680 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1370 mm | 1400 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 11.0 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 1949 Indian Scout targets all-round versatility and everyday riding. On paper, the 1947 Norton International's 29hp trumps the 1949 Indian Scout's 15hp, 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 1949 Indian Scout for all-round versatility and everyday riding. Parts availability is difficult for the 1947 Norton International and very difficult for the 1949 Indian Scout — an important factor for any restoration project.
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 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 →