Skoda 120 Type 742
The rear-engined Czechoslovakian icon that defied Cold War conventions.
- Power
- 52 bhp
- Top speed
- 87 mph
- Est. value
- $3k–$11k
About the Skoda 120 Type 742
The Skoda 120, part of the Type 742 family, was the backbone of Czechoslovakian motoring for over a decade. Featuring a rear-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout, it was often criticised in the West for its swing-axle handling but praised for its ruggedness and ease of maintenance. The 1.2-litre variant offered a modest step up in power over the base 105, becoming a common sight across the Eastern Bloc and a cult classic in the UK as the 'Estelle'. Its production run finally ended in 1990 as Skoda transitioned to the front-wheel-drive Favorit under Volkswagen's growing influence.
Skoda 120 Type 742 specs
The Skoda 120 Type 742 produces 52 bhp (39 kW) and 85 Nm (63 lb-ft) of torque. It has a top speed of 87 mph (140 km/h).
| Make | Skoda |
|---|---|
| Model | 120 |
| Generation | Type 742 |
| Trim | 1.2 |
| Years | 1976–1990 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | Czech Republic |
| Engine | 1.2-litre inline-4 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,174 cc (1.2 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 52 bhp (39 kW) at 5,000 rpm |
| Torque | 85 Nm (63 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 5,500 rpm |
| Top speed | 87 mph (140 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 885 kg (1,951 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 59 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Skoda 120 Type 742 worth?
A typical Skoda 120 Type 742 is estimated to be worth $2,500 – $11,000 (about £1,900 – £8,200).
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
Skoda 120 Type 742 rarity in CarSpot
The Skoda 120 Type 742 is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 13 out of 100. Everyday cars you can spot on almost any street. A Common card is worth 10 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.
Skoda 120 Type 742 fun facts
- Despite its budget image, the Skoda 120's chassis was surprisingly successful in rallying, winning its class on the RAC Rally for 17 consecutive years.
- The front boot opens sideways like a piano lid, a unique design feature intended to make roadside access safer.
- In the UK, the car was marketed as the 'Estelle', and despite heavy mockery from the press, it sold over 120,000 units due to its low price.
