The Škoda 130 RS is one of the most significant cars in Czechoslovak motorsports. The coupe, nicknamed the “Porsche of the East,” demonstrated what a combination of a lightweight body, meticulously engineered technology, and a small engine could achieve. It made its mark on both rally special stages and race tracks, and to this day remains one of the most famous models to bear the RS designation.
The model was introduced in 1975 and was based on the production Škoda 110 R. For racing, however, it received significantly modified engineering and a lightweight body made of aluminum and fiberglass. It retained the rear-mounted engine and rear-wheel drive, with its design emphasizing low weight and agility.
One of their most famous results came at the 1977 Monte Carlo Rally. Václav Blahna and Lubislav Hlávka won the under-1,300 cm³ class, while Milan Zapadlo and Jiří Motal took second place. In the overall standings, they finished in twelfth and fifteenth place. Of the original 198 competing crews, only 45 were classified at the finish, which underscores the difficulty of the competition.
According to the seller, this 1978 model features a 1,289 cm³ engine, a 130 RS cast-iron cylinder head marked AT14, dry lubrication, and Weber 45 carburetors. It is equipped with a four-speed Hewland transmission. The dry sump system helps ensure a steady oil supply even under heavy loads in corners, which is extremely important for a competition car.
The seller notes that this vehicle features an aluminum roof and hood, a copper front radiator, and rear arms in rally specification. Braking is handled by front Girling four-piston calipers and rear drum brakes. The body retains its patina, which adds to the character of this historic race car.
In 2023, according to the listing, the vehicle underwent a brake inspection and service, carburetor reconditioning and adjustment, replacement of the fuel lines, and the installation of rally tires. The seller also provides the original vehicle registration certificate with factory exemptions and documented racing history.
The 130 RS’s successes were not limited to rallying. In the 1981 season, it helped Škoda win the manufacturers’ title in the European Touring Car Championship. It is precisely this ability to succeed in a variety of disciplines that is one of the reasons why this coupe holds such an important place in the brand’s history.
