Skoda Estelle
The rear-engined underdog that conquered the RAC Rally class for seventeen years straight.
- Power
- 52 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 17.0 s
- Top speed
- 87 mph
- Est. value
- $2k–$8k
About the Skoda Estelle
The Skoda Estelle, known internally as the Type 742, was one of the last rear-engined family cars produced in Europe. Despite being the butt of many Cold War-era jokes in the UK due to its budget price and dated swing-axle suspension, it was a robust and practical machine that excelled in international rallying. The 1983 'Estelle Two' facelift brought a wider track and improved cooling, though the 120 L trim retained the simpler 4-speed gearbox and swing-axle setup. Today, it is a cult classic, prized for its unique handling characteristics and its status as a survivor of the Eastern Bloc motoring era.
Skoda Estelle specs
The Skoda Estelle produces 52 bhp (39 kW) and 85 Nm (63 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 17.0 seconds and has a top speed of 87 mph (140 km/h).
| Make | Skoda |
|---|---|
| Model | Estelle |
| Trim | 120 L |
| Years | 1976–1990 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | Czech Republic |
| Engine | 1.2-litre rear-mounted 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 |
| 0–60 mph | 17.0 s |
| Top speed | 87 mph (140 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 880 kg (1,940 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 Estelle worth?
A typical Skoda Estelle is estimated to be worth $1,500 – $7,500 (about £1,100 – £5,600).
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 Estelle rarity in CarSpot
The Skoda Estelle 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 Estelle fun facts
- The Estelle's radiator was moved to the front in 1976 to improve weight distribution, but the long coolant pipes often caused airlocks and overheating.
- Despite its reputation as a budget car, the Estelle won its class on the RAC Rally for 17 consecutive years between 1973 and 1989.
- The front boot (frunk) opens sideways like a piano lid, a unique design feature carried over from the earlier 1000MB.
