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The long era of ŠKODA vehicles with rear-engine and rear-wheel drive came to an end in 1988: the factory drivers from Mladá Boleslav drove their final rallies in the legendary 130 LR vehicles and began training in the new, front-wheel-drive ŠKODA FAVORIT practically overnight.

In addition to the complete selection of images accompanying this press release, the ŠKODA Storyboard also offers a 32-page brochure and a comprehensive selection of articles and features on various topics from 120 years of ŠKODA Motorsport.

While the ŠKODA 130 LR was still racing on domestic rally tracks in September 1987, there was a considerable paradigm shift at the International Engineering Fair in Brno, where ŠKODA unveiled the FAVORIT to widespread interest. The modern hatchback with front-mounted engine and drivetrain was an entirely new development and the Czech carmaker believed it would also have strong sales prospects in the demanding Western European markets. In Mladá Boleslav, the team immediately began working on a rally version, the success of which would be key to promoting the new model internationally.

Works driver Vladimír Berger played an important role in developing the racing vehicle. For tuning purposes, he drove the ŠKODA FAVORIT, which had not yet been officially homologated, at selected rallies in the 1988 Czechoslovak championship. The homologation of the vehicle followed on 1 January 1989 under the registration number A-5373. The FAVORIT celebrated a successful debut with the driver teams Křeček/Motl, Sibera/Gross and Berger/Petera shortly afterwards at the traditional ‘Valašská zima’ rally. The FAVORIT celebrated its international premiere at the Finnish Hanki Rally, driving to class victory with Kalevi Aho at the wheel. The FAVORIT continued to dominate in the following years, winning almost every race in its class. It also asserted itself against the competition in demanding WRC rounds such as the Monte Carlo Rally, the RAC Rally, the Finnish 1000 Lakes Rally and the Acropolis Rally. The winning streak of the duo Pavel Sibera/ Petr Gross, who won their class four times in a row at the Monte Carlo Rally between 1991 and 1994, was particularly impressive.

In 1993, new rules came into force with the announcement of the World Cup for vehicles with naturally aspirated engines, a maximum engine capacity of two litres and a driven axle – the so-called Formula 2. In the first season, the ŠKODA Motorsport works team finished second, before leaving numerous well-known competitors behind in the following year and securing the world championship title in the Formula 2 class.

As a Class A rally car, the ŠKODA FAVORIT looked very similar to the series-production model at first glance, but it was a racing car through and through. The rigidity of the body, which was made of thinner sheet metal, was enhanced by a certified safety frame. In contrast to the standard version, the roof had a mechanical flap that improved ventilation in the interior. The windows and door panels, however, were from the series-production model. The upholstery and rear seat were removed, and several additional measures brought the kerb weight down to 750 kilograms.

The control panel was left unchanged, but the gauges and switches were adapted and positioned so that they could also be operated by the co-driver if required. The brake pressure was routed to the rear wheels via a brake power distributor, which could be adapted depending on the road conditions. A sports steering wheel, which drivers usually took with them from vehicle to vehicle, simplified the FAVORIT’s handling.

The engine had OHV valve timing; compared to the standard engine, the displacement increased from 1,289.4 to 1,299.6 cm3. The connecting rods, cams and other parts were new. Initially, the engine delivered 76 kW at 6,500 rpm; later, thanks to a Pierburg twin carburettor, the power increased to 88 kW at 7,000 rpm. A five-speed gearbox was used at first, but this was later replaced by a six-speed gearbox with spur toothing. The FAVORIT’s top speed was between 150 and 210 km/h, depending on the overall transmission ratio.

The white bodywork was originally finished with red and blue stripes, which later gave way to a chequered pattern in the same colours. This was replaced in 1993 by the green victory sign ‘V’ and red stripe – the emblem of RS cars today.

The ŠKODA FAVORIT 136 L/A, which had been modified for racing purposes, also held its own off the rally tracks on circuits and hill climbs. The FAVORIT 136 L/H, developed in 1989 for circuit racing, was particularly interesting from a technical perspective. The four-cylinder engine from the 790.16 OHC was a prototype with a larger displacement of 1,596 cm³. It had two Weber twin carburettors and generated 123 kW (167 hp) at 6,500 rpm; torque of 176 Nm was available at 5,500 rpm. The car reached a top speed of 240 km/h and accelerated from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6 seconds. The engine later benefited from direct injection and the power increased to 129 kW (175 hp). Among other events, this modified ŠKODA FAVORIT competed in the 24-hour race at the Nürburgring where the trio Kvaizar/Samohýl/Obermann clinched a class victory.

Although the more modern ŠKODA FELICIA replaced the ŠKODA FAVORIT on the rally track in 1995, the FAVORIT remained on the starting lists of numerous races for many years as a sports vehicle that was both powerful and affordable.

Article source: www.skoda-storyboard.com

ŠKODA AUTO embarked on a new era on 3 September 1996. In Mladá Boleslav, one of the most modern car plants in Europe went into operation, while series production of the ŠKODA OCTAVIA, the brand’s most important new model, began there at the same time. Since then, around 7 million units of the four contemporary OCTAVIA generations have been delivered.

The ŠKODA OCTAVIA has played a pivotal role in ŠKODA AUTO’s successful development over recent years. Since series production began 25 years ago, around 7 million customers have opted for the bestseller from Mladá Boleslav. From day one, it has offered outstanding spaciousness, state-of-the-art technology, a high level of safety and excellent value for money. In addition, it has featured innovative technologies in every generation – in the current series, for example, the OCTAVIA iV’s plug-in hybrid drive. Thanks to these qualities, the OCTAVIA set out to become the heart of the brand a quarter of a century ago.

In 1996, ŠKODA AUTO presented its first compact class model after being integrated into the Volkswagen Group. The traditional name OCTAVIA was used as the model designation. Between 1959 and 1971, more than 280,000 units of this legendary model series rolled off the production line, including the OCTAVIA COMBI. The Latin word ‘octavia’ means ‘the eighth’. The newcomer was the brand’s eighth model after the Second World War and also the eighth ŠKODA model with all-around independent suspension since ŠKODA introduced the concept in 1933. The ‘‘original OCTAVIA’’ was also in great demand beyond the borders of what was then Czechoslovakia and contributed many successes in the 120-year history of ŠKODA motorsport, including the class victory hat-trick at the Monte Carlo Rally from 1961 to 1963, the ŠKODA OCTAVIA’s class victory in the 4,000-mile race from Montreal to Vancouver in Canada in 1962 and at the Shell 4000 Rally in 1963.

The history of the modern OCTAVIA began in 1992, around a year after ŠKODA AUTO had joined the Volkswagen Group when the compact class model was gradually being developed. With the help of computer-aided design (CAD) technology, a body with an unmistakable, timeless design was created on the new Group platform – the work of designer Dirk van Braeckel and his team.

At the same time, preparations were underway to build a new production facility in Mladá Boleslav that would enable efficient modular production and the assembly of components and subassemblies delivered just-in-time. The body skeletons travelled along the assembly line on height-adjustable assembly plates, eliminating the need for hanging fixtures from conveyor systems. A new paint shop was added to the assembly line in the 37,500-square-metre, expansively glazed hall. After the grand opening of the facility on 3 September 1996, the production capacity increased by 90,000 to 350,000 vehicles per year.

One of the hallmarks of the practical liftback was its high level of active and passive safety, including front and side airbags. The generous boot was easily accessible via the large tailgate and offered space for 528 to 1,328 litres of luggage.

In 1996, its opening sales year, customers could choose from two four-cylinder petrol engines (1.6 MPI/55 kW and 1.8 20 V/92 kW) and a turbo diesel – the economical 1.9 TDI had a standard consumption of 5.1 litres of diesel per 100 km and an output of 66 kW. The engine range was gradually expanded to include the top-of-the-range 1.8 20 V Turbo/110 kW. The OCTAVIA COMBI made its debut in March 1998, and a version with all-wheel drive was added in 1999. By November 2010, more than 973,000 liftbacks and over 472,000 estates of the first OCTAVIA generation had been produced.

This was followed by the even more successful second generation of the modern ŠKODA OCTAVIA, which went out to customers from 2004 to 2013. In addition to even greater utility, it also offered many technical innovations, such as petrol engines with direct injection and the automatic DSG dual-clutch gearbox. The third generation of the OCTAVIA rolled off the production line between 2012 and 2020, and on 11 November 2019, the Mladá Boleslav-based automaker unveiled the current, fourth generation of its bestseller. Today, ŠKODA AUTO offers the OCTAVIA with the widest range of engines in the history of the model series. The line-up includes saloon and estate body versions with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. In addition to efficient petrol and diesel engines, the range also boasts a wide selection of alternative drive systems, including natural gas (CNG) as well as plug-in hybrid drive and mild hybrid. The amount of interior space has again increased compared to previous generations, and the new OCTAVIA is also safer and offers greater connectivity than ever.

The ŠKODA OCTAVIA enjoys global demand as an established name in its segment. This is also confirmed by numerous awards from renowned trade magazines.

Article source: www.skoda-storyboard.com

The ‘Sachsen Classic’ classic car rally is one of the largest and most prestigious events of its kind in Europe. The starting field of vehicles built between the 1920s and 1990s regularly includes historic models from the ŠKODA Classic team, five of which will be taking part in the 18th staging of the rally. The teams will set off from Zwickau on Thursday, 19 August and cover 685 kilometres over three days. The longest stage (321 kilometres) will take the more than 150 historic cars to Mladá Boleslav for the first time on Saturday, 21 August, where they can be admired in front of the ŠKODA Museum around midday.

“Taking part in the Sachsen Classic is not only a tradition for us but also a matter close to our hearts. We strive to enrich the starting field every year with attractive models from our history. This year will be no exception with the quintet of cars we have selected,” says Andrea Frydlová, Head of the ŠKODA Museum in Mladá Boleslav, adding, “We are delighted that the participants will also be able to enjoy the exciting route in the Czech Republic, which will take them directly to Mladá Boleslav for the very first time in the history of the race. Saturday’s stage in particular – themed ‘120 years of ŠKODA Motorsport’ – pays tribute to the momentous anniversary we are celebrating this year.”

On Thursday, 19 August, a ŠKODA FELICIA from 1962 will head for the starting ramp with its distinctive turquoise paintwork. The convertible is one of the most beautiful vehicles in Czech automotive history. The ŠKODA 1100 MBX De Luxe from 1969 is also a testament to the skill of the engineers and designers of the time. The body of the two-door variant of the popular ‘MB’ lacks the upper parts of the B-pillars, which is why the interior appears unusually airy with the windows down. This rare model is now a sought-after and valuable classic car. The other three vehicles will make the hearts of motorsport fans beat faster: The two ŠKODA 110 R models are characterised by their sporty coupé bodywork with an elegant touch. The model, which was a big sales hit, also served as the technical basis for the famous rally and racing cars ŠKODA 180 RS, 200 RS and the ŠKODA 130 RS, which gained fame as the ‘Porsche of the East’. The unmistakable and ear-catching highlight among the participants is the ŠKODA 1100 OHC Roadster from 1957 with a top speed of 200 kilometres per hour. The open-top racing car, which is usually on display at the ŠKODA Museum, is one of only two ever produced. ŠKODA began developing the racing car in spring 1956 with the aim of taking part again – after 1950 – in the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans. Due to the political situation, however, the purpose-built car never made it to the start of the legendary race. The quintet of vehicles from the ŠKODA Classic team introduced here will be joined on the starting list by five other ŠKODA vehicles, driven by their private owners as well as teams of journalists.

The ‘Sachsen Classic’ starts on Thursday, 19 August, one minute after noon in Zwickau, Germany. The drivers can look forward to a 110-kilometre “warm-up” stage, which will take them to the famous Sachsenring racetrack, among other places. Covering 254 kilometres, Friday will be a real test for both the machines and their crews when they cross the finish line in Dresden after demanding climbs in the Erzgebirge mountains.

The longest stage (321 km) begins in Dresden on Saturday, 21 August, one minute after seven in the morning, under the banner of ‘120 years of ŠKODA Motorsport’. It will take place mainly on Czech soil, and the first vehicles are expected in Mladá Boleslav as early as 11:00. After stopping at the ŠKODA factory site, the participants will drive from the company’s museum back to Dresden, where the award ceremony awaits them.

The fact that the Sachsen Classic is making its first stop in Mladá Boleslav represents a unique opportunity for all fans of automotive history. Watching the more than 150 classic cars that will arrive in front of the ŠKODA Museum on Saturday, 21 August between 11:50 and 14:00 can be combined with a visit to the museum, where the impressive new exhibition ‘In the spirit of electromobility’ can also be seen alongside the permanent exhibition. Among other things, the presentation explores the history, present and future of electromobility.

Article source: www.skoda-storyboard.com

ŠKODA Motorsport is busy developing a rally version of the all-new ŠKODA FABIA. A first prototype of the future ŠKODA FABIA in Rally2 version has already been tested on tarmac and gravel roads in the Czech Republic, France and Spain.

The all-new ŠKODA FABIA is coming onto the international market. As the road car makes the switch from generation three to four, the rally version follows suit. ŠKODA Motorsport has already started testing the future ŠKODA FABIA in Rally2 version. A first prototype has been in action on gravel and tarmac stages in the Czech Republic, France and Spain recently.

“The all-new ŠKODA FABIA for the Rally2 category has entered the development and testing stage. Fortunately, our technicians can build on comprehensive know-how and expertise of the ongoing ŠKODA FABIA Rally2 evo project, which still is very successful worldwide,” comments Michal Hrabánek, Head of ŠKODA Motorsport.

Since April 2015, the ŠKODA FABIA is collecting more rally trophies than any other car in its category. Starting with a so-called R5 version, which has later been renamed to Rally2, the Czech rally car until today racked up nine titles in support categories to the FIA World Rally Championship, numerous regional and national championships, nearly 1.400 overall and class victories as well as close to 3.300 podium positions worldwide. ŠKODA Motorsport has already sold more than 400 units of the R5, Rally2 and Rally2 evo variants.

According to the Rally2 regulations of the FIA, the next generation Rally2 version of the ŠKODA FABIA is again powered by a 1.6 litres turbo petrol engine connected to a five-speed sequential gearbox and four-wheel drive with mechanical differentials.

Article source: www.skoda-storyboard.com

More choice, a wider output range and even greater efficiency: the fourth-generation ŠKODA FABIA is launched with five efficient engines from the Volkswagen Group’s latest EVO generation. They deliver outputs ranging from 48 kW (65 hp) to 110 kW (150 hp) and comply with the stringent Euro 6d emissions standard. Four of the five engines enable a WLTP range of over 900 kilometres when combined with the optional 50-litre tank now available for the first time. Other options for the ŠKODA FABIA include a Rough-Road package with an extra 15 millimetres of ground clearance as well as a stiffer sports suspension lowered by 15 millimetres.

The all-new FABIA is offered with a choice of five drivetrains from the Volkswagen Group’s EVO engine generation, all of which meet the Euro 6d emissions standard. The two 1.0 MPI engines now deliver an output of 48 kW (65 hp) and 59 kW (80 hp). A manual 5-speed gearbox is installed for both engines, as well as the 1.0 TSI with 70 kW (95 hp). The 1.0 TSI with 81 kW (110 hp) comes with a 6-speed manual gearbox or 7-speed DSG. The most powerful engine for the new FABIA is the 1.5 TSI with 110 kW (150 hp) and a 7-speed DSG. The majority of the engines and all the transmissions for the new ŠKODA FABIA are produced in the Czech Republic. The MPI engines and 1.0 TSI powertrains are produced in Mladá Boleslav and the manual transmissions also leave the assembly line at ŠKODA’s main plant. The 7-speed DSG is manufactured at ŠKODA’s Vrchlabí plant. For the first time, the FABIA can be ordered with an optional 50-litre fuel tank instead of the standard 40-litre tank, which, in combination with four of the five engines, enables a maximum range of more than 900 kilometres in the WLTP cycle.

Many innovative solutions for the EVO engines reduce fuel consumption and emissions
ŠKODA AUTO has made numerous refinements that reduce the fuel consumption and emissions of the two MPI engines from the current EVO generation while at the same time increasing their performance. An optimised crankshaft drive complete with pistons and piston rings reduces friction losses. Targeted modification of the water circulation system around the cylinder head and engine block ensures greater cooling efficiency for the cylinders, combustion chambers and integrated exhaust manifold. Moreover, the three-cylinder MPI engines operate on the Atkinson combustion cycle, in which the intake valves only close during a piston’s compression stroke. As a result, part of the air-fuel mixture is pushed back into the intake manifold. This reduces the compression ratio, which in turn lowers the fuel consumption. The two 1.0 TSI direct injection engines use a high injection pressure of 350 bar. Their innovative plasma coating is just 150 micrometres (0.15 millimetres) thick and replaces the cast-iron cylinder liners in the aluminium cylinder crankcase, reducing internal friction inside the three cylinders. This lowers fuel consumption and emissions even further, while reducing the thermal load through a more even distribution and dissipation of heat in the combustion chamber. The three-cylinder MPI engines also operate in the fuel-efficient Miller cycle and the turbocharger has variable turbine geometry. This results in a higher torque that is available over a wider range of engine speeds, while at the same time reducing emissions. The plasma coating and 350-bar injection pressure are also featured in the new top-of-the-range 1.5 TSI engine. Thanks to active cylinder management (ACT), the four-cylinder engine automatically deactivates two cylinders under light load conditions, a process that is virtually imperceptible to the driver and also helps to reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.

Rough-Road package and sports suspension provide additional chassis variants
In addition to the standard version, two other chassis variants are optionally available for the all-new FABIA. The Rough-Road package comes with special springs, a modified suspension and additional protective elements for the chassis; ground clearance is increased by 15 millimetres. The sports suspension offers a firmer spring set-up and is lowered by 15 millimetres for a more dynamic driving experience.

Article source: www.skoda-storyboard.com

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