Skoda 135 classic cars for sale

History of the Skoda 135

Developed by AZNP in Mladá Boleslav during the twilight years of communist Czechoslovakia, the Skoda 135 represents the final push of Škoda’s rear-engine tradition. The lineage began in 1976 with the Škoda 105 and 120, and by the time the 135 was introduced, the underlying machinery had seen significant refinement. The 135 marked the adoption of updates inspired by the front-engined Favorit but retained the classic rear engine, rear-wheel drive setup. The Type 742/746 series ultimately saw over two million units built during its 14-year run, testifying to its broad impact in its home market and across export territories.

Model History of the 135 Series

The Skoda 135 can trace its roots back to the earlier 105 and 120 models that defined compact transport in Czechoslovakia from 1976 onwards. Later in production, the range diversified with the 125 model and ultimately, the 135 and its sibling, the 136. These late versions benefited from newer engines, particularly the 1.3-litre four-cylinder originally seen in the front-engined Favorit. The 135 represented a late-stage evolution—Škoda’s rear-engine family car approach entering its sunset years before fully modernizing with the Favorit’s arrival.

Highlights of the Skoda 135

Key to the Skoda 135’s character is its rear-mounted 1.3-litre engine, delivering a distinctive driving experience not found in more conventional front-engine layouts. Its robust, simple engineering has made it a survivor in both domestic and international markets post-1990. For enthusiasts today, the Skoda 135 offers unique Eastern Bloc engineering, a significant production legacy, as well as a characterful alternative to more common Western classics.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

While the Skoda 135 did not see numerous high-profile special editions, late production runs sometimes featured region-specific equipment or cosmetic details aimed at export markets. The closely related 136, with its higher-performance engine, is sometimes considered the more performance-oriented counterpart within this family.

Weak Spots and Common Issues

No specific weak spots are listed in the available data. As with most rear-engine Eastern European vehicles of the era, owners typically should watch for chassis corrosion, electrical issues, and drivetrain wear, particularly as most surviving examples will have seen long service lives.

Engine and Performance, Transmission and Handling

The 1.3-litre four-cylinder engine delivers adequate performance for the era, with the rear-engine configuration contributing to a unique driving feel—light steering, good traction, and a characteristic handling balance. Transmission options consisted mainly of a manual gearbox, contributing to the utilitarian, engaging character. While not a sports car, the Skoda 135’s mechanical layout provides a driving experience unlike most contemporaries. Among Skoda’s rear-engine lineup, the 135 and the 136, with their updated 1.3-litre engines, are the focal points for enthusiasts. The 135 is appreciated for its simplicity, while the 136 offers a slight increase in power output.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

The Skoda 135’s design reflects late-1970s to late-1980s Eastern European trends—boxy, functional, but with subtle updates in later years that set it apart from earlier 105/120 models. Interiors were tailored for ruggedness and ease of maintenance, with the majority of materials chosen for durability. Accessory levels remained modest, though export models sometimes featured additional trim or colour options to suit Western tastes. Special equipment, such as period-correct radios or seat fabrics, can occasionally be found in well-preserved examples.

Other Noteworthy Features

The Skoda 135's significance is tied to its heritage as one of the last mass-produced rear-engine models in Europe, marking the end of a distinct technical era for Škoda.

Summary

The Skoda 135 stands as a milestone in Škoda’s history, marking the end of the marque’s rear-engine tradition and the transition to more modern designs. For classic car enthusiasts, it represents affordable, mechanically unique motoring with a tangible link to Czechoslovakia’s automotive past.