The Škoda 110R, a rear-engined coupé produced in Czechoslovakia between 1970 and 1980, has recently resurfaced in Italy, drawing attention from classic car enthusiasts across Europe. Known colloquially as the “Czechoslovak 911” for its distinctive styling and rear-wheel-drive layout, the vehicle is now reportedly available for sale, sparking renewed interest in one of Eastern Europe’s most iconic sports cars of the Cold War era.
Manufactured by AZNP in Kvasiny, the Škoda 110R was built during a ten-year production run that yielded 56,902 units. It succeeded the sportier Škoda 1000 MBX/1100 MBX models and shared its 1.1-litre overhead-valve four-cylinder engine with the Škoda 110LS saloon. This engine, tuned to produce 62 brake horsepower (SAE), enabled a top speed of 145 km/h and a 0–100 km/h acceleration time of 18.5 seconds when paired with the standard four-speed manual transmission.
The car’s design featured a fastback rear end and, during most of its production, four headlights — though early models had only two. Its compact dimensions included a wheelbase of 2,400 mm, an overall length of 4,155 mm, a width of 1,620 mm, and a height of 1,340 mm, with a kerb weight of approximately 880 kg. These specifications contributed to its agile handling and earned it a reputation as a driver’s car despite its modest power output by today’s standards.
In motorsport, the Škoda 110R served as the foundation for several high-performance variants. Most notably, it was developed into the rally homologation special 130 RS, which achieved international success in the 1970s. One-off models such as the 180RS and 200RS — featuring overhead-camshaft engines — were constructed, with the ultimate evolution being the fuel-injected 2000 MI “Grenade” project by Bořivoj Kořínek in 1975, which reportedly produced up to 250 horsepower.
Production of the original 110R ended in 1980 to make way for its successor, the Škoda Garde, a coupé version of the Škoda 105/120 platform introduced in November 1981. The Garde retained the rear-engine layout but featured updated styling and mechanical improvements, marking the end of an era for Škoda’s classic rear-engined coupés.
Today, surviving examples of the Škoda 110R are sought after by collectors, particularly those interested in Eastern European automotive history. Its rarity outside former Eastern Bloc countries makes discoveries in Western Europe — such as the recent sighting in Italy — notable events within enthusiast circles. The car’s simple mechanical layout, combined with its unique design and cultural significance, continues to attract restoration projects and preservation efforts.
For those interested in learning more about the Škoda 110R’s technical specifications, production history, or motorsport legacy, authoritative sources such as the vehicle’s Wikipedia entry provide detailed, verifiable information drawn from factory records and historical archives.
As of now, no official statements have been issued regarding the specific vehicle found in Italy, including its ownership history, restoration status, or asking price. Enthusiasts monitoring the listing are advised to verify all details directly with the seller and consider professional inspection before any purchase.
If you have information about this particular Škoda 110R or have encountered similar discoveries of classic Eastern European vehicles in unexpected locations, we welcome your insights. Share your thoughts in the comments below or join the conversation on social media using the hashtag #Skoda110R.