Yugo 45
The Yugoslavian people's car that became a cult symbol of Cold War austerity.
- Power
- 45 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 19.1 s
- Top speed
- 84 mph
- Est. value
- $2k–$9k
About the Yugo 45
The Yugo 45, based on the Fiat 127 platform, was manufactured by Zastava in Kragujevac, Yugoslavia. While notorious for poor build quality and reliability issues in the West, it provided affordable mobility for millions in Eastern Europe. The GL trim offered minor aesthetic upgrades over the base model, though it remained fundamentally basic transportation. Today, it has transitioned from a punchline into a nostalgic cult classic, with survivors becoming increasingly rare and sought after by collectors of Eastern Bloc history.
Yugo 45 specs
The Yugo 45 produces 45 bhp (34 kW) and 62 Nm (46 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 19.1 seconds and has a top speed of 84 mph (135 km/h).
| Make | Yugo |
|---|---|
| Model | 45 |
| Trim | GL |
| Years | 1980–2008 |
| Type | Hatchback |
| Body style | Hatchback |
| Country | Serbia |
| Original price | About $4,000 when new |
| Engine | 903cc inline-four |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 903 cc (0.9 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 45 bhp (34 kW) at 6,000 rpm |
| Torque | 62 Nm (46 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,500 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 19.1 s |
| Top speed | 84 mph (135 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 750 kg (1,653 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 60 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Yugo 45 worth?
A typical Yugo 45 is estimated to be worth $2,000 – $8,500 (about £1,500 – £6,300).
Its original price when new was about $4,000.
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
Yugo 45 rarity in CarSpot
The Yugo 45 is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 0 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.
Yugo 45 fun facts
- The Yugo was once the cheapest new car sold in the United States, launching with a price tag of just $3,990.
- Production continued in Serbia until 2008, long after the car had been withdrawn from international markets.
- The engine is a derivative of the legendary Fiat 100-series overhead valve unit, known for its simplicity and durability if properly maintained.