Moskvich 408
The stylish face of Soviet motoring that conquered export markets.
- Power
- 50 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 27.6 s
- Top speed
- 75 mph
- Est. value
- $2k–$10k
About the Moskvich 408
The Moskvich 408 marked a significant leap for the Soviet automotive industry, introducing a modern, crisp design with prominent tailfins that echoed Western trends of the early 1960s. Replacing the 407, it featured a longer wheelbase and a more spacious interior, though it retained a rugged, simple overhead-valve engine designed for durability in harsh climates. It was a surprising export success, with over half of production sent to Western Europe, where it was marketed as the 'Elite' or 'Scaldia' for its value and robustness. While its performance was modest, the 408 is remembered for its distinctive styling and as the first Soviet car to incorporate deliberate safety features like a padded dashboard and crumple zones in later iterations.
Moskvich 408 specs
The Moskvich 408 produces 50 bhp (37 kW) and 92 Nm (68 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 27.6 seconds and has a top speed of 75 mph (120 km/h).
| Make | Moskvich |
|---|---|
| Model | 408 |
| Trim | 1.4 |
| Years | 1964–1976 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | Soviet Union |
| Engine | 1.4-litre inline-4 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,358 cc (1.4 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 50 bhp (37 kW) at 4,750 rpm |
| Torque | 92 Nm (68 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 5,000 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 27.6 s |
| Top speed | 75 mph (120 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 945 kg (2,083 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 53 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Moskvich 408 worth?
A typical Moskvich 408 is estimated to be worth $2,000 – $10,000 (about £1,500 – £7,500).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Moskvich 408 rarity in CarSpot
The Moskvich 408 is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 24 out of 100. Hot hatches and premium sporty cars. An Uncommon card is worth 20 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Moskvich 408 fun facts
- In 1966, the Moskvich 408 was the most exported Soviet car, with 55% of its production sold outside the USSR.
- Export versions often featured four round headlights to distinguish them from the two-headlight domestic models.
- The car was assembled in several countries outside the USSR, including Belgium by Scaldia-Volga and Bulgaria as the Rila 1400.