Škoda Favorit: A Revolution on Wheels and a Remarkably Preserved Example
The Škoda Favorit, launched in 1987, marked a pivotal moment for the Czech automaker, representing a significant departure from its past and paving the way for its eventual integration into the Volkswagen Group. A remarkably well-preserved 1988 model, recently listed for sale in the Czech Republic, highlights the enduring appeal and historical significance of this groundbreaking vehicle.
A Modern Era for Škoda
Prior to the Favorit, Škoda primarily produced vehicles with a longitudinally mounted front-engine and rear-wheel drive configuration. This design, while traditional, limited the potential for diverse body styles. The state-owned company faced financial constraints that hindered modernization efforts. The Favorit, with its front-engine, front-wheel drive layout, represented a necessary and innovative shift towards modern automotive engineering [1].
The decision to develop a modern car with a transversely mounted front engine and front-wheel drive was made by the Czechoslovak government in December 1982, with a five-year timeline for development and production [1].
The Impact of the Favorit
The Škoda Favorit was the company’s first vehicle designed with the European trend of a front-engine, front-wheel drive configuration [2]. Its introduction in 1987 brought Škoda on par with Western manufacturers and laid the foundation for a new vehicle family. The Favorit’s success was instrumental in attracting Volkswagen’s interest, ultimately leading to Škoda’s privatization and acquisition by the German automotive group in 1991 [1].
Between 1987 and 1994, a total of 783,167 Favorits were produced at the Vrchlabí and Mladá Boleslav plants [1]. The model as well achieved success in motorsport, winning the FIA Formula 2 World Cup for front-wheel-drive rally cars after four class victories at the 1994 Monte Carlo Rally [1].
A Unique Find: A 38-Year Ownership
Recently, a 1988 Škoda Favorit surfaced for sale on the Czech website Bazoš.cz, attracting attention due to its exceptional history. The vehicle has remained with its original owner for nearly 38 years [1]. According to the vehicle register and the curator of the Škoda Museum in Mladá Boleslav, this particular Favorit is believed to be the oldest example still in utilize with its first owner [1].
The car, finished in a distinctive “beige-brown” color, has approximately 140,000 kilometers on the odometer and underwent a complete renovation eight years ago, although the original paintwork remains intact. It even retains its original license plate. Interestingly, the vehicle is fitted with new Barum OR37 tires, a model that is 35 years traditional [1]. The owner is also including the original replaced parts with the sale.
Asking Price and Condition
The owner is seeking CZK 349,000 for the vehicle, with the possibility of negotiation. A minor cosmetic detail is the black foil covering on the B-pillars, which the owner has chosen to leave in place to avoid potential damage to the original paint during removal [1].
Škoda Favorit Variants
The Škoda Favorit was initially launched as a five-door hatchback in 1987 [2]. Later, Škoda expanded the range with the introduction of the five-door estate, known as the Škoda Forman (Type 785) in 1990 and a two-door coupé utility truck, the Škoda Pick-up (Type 787) in 1991 [2].