| Production | |
|---|---|
| Model Year: | 1984 |
| Production Years: | 1984 - 1990 discontinued in 1990 |
The Skoda 130 is a classical compact sedan produced from 1984 to 1990, marking one of the last rear-engined models from the Czech automaker Skoda before the brand transitioned towards front-engine designs. Designed as a practical family car, the Skoda 130 featured a simple yet functional layout, offering reliability and ease of maintenance typical of Eastern European cars of that era.
Measuring approximately 4,165 mm (164 inches) in length, the Skoda 130 fitted comfortably within the compact sedan segment of the mid-1980s. The width was around 1,620 mm (63.8 inches), providing adequate interior space for four to five passengers, while its height was approximately 1,405 mm (55.3 inches), giving it a modest but practical silhouette. The vehicle’s weight typically ranged around 900 kg (1,984 lbs), which contributed to its fuel efficiency and handling characteristics.
The Skoda 130 was equipped with a rear-mounted inline-four engine, a characteristic feature of Skoda’s design during that period. This setup allowed for a balanced weight distribution and straightforward mechanical components, though it limited the ability to generate high power outputs. The car’s modest dimensions and lightweight build made it nimble in urban environments, well suited for city driving and narrow roads.
Though largely overshadowed by Western European models, the Skoda 130 holds a special place as a dependable and affordable family car in Eastern Europe during the late Cold War period. Its conservative styling and compact size contrast with larger sedans of the same era, reflecting the practical needs and economic constraints of its market. Overall, the Skoda 130 remains a noteworthy example of 1980s automotive engineering focused on durability and simplicity rather than luxury or performance.
Discover the standout features that make the 1984 Skoda 130 a leader in its class
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The Škoda 130 sedan, produced from 1984 to 1990, has a length of approximately 4,240 millimeters (167 inches), a width of around 1,610 millimeters (63 inches), and a height close to 1,435 millimeters (56.5 inches). These dimensions reflect the typical compact sedan proportions of Eastern European cars of that era, offering a balance of manageable size for urban driving and sufficient interior space for passengers. Its moderate width and height ensure it can comfortably navigate city streets and parking areas while maintaining a classic sedan profile.
The Škoda 130 sedan weighs approximately 940 kilograms (2,072 pounds) in its stock form. This relatively lightweight construction contributes to its nimble handling and fuel efficiency, making it suitable for both city commuting and light touring. The weight also influences braking distances and suspension tuning; lighter vehicles like the Škoda 130 typically benefit from responsive steering but may feel less planted on rougher roads compared to heavier models.
While exact interior measurements for the Škoda 130 are less commonly published, the car's exterior dimensions and design suggest a practical cabin for its class. Headroom is generally sufficient for average-height adults in both front and rear seats, given the vehicle's 1,435 mm (56.5 inches) height. Legroom is modest but typical of compact sedans from the 1980s, comfortably seating four passengers with a reasonable allowance for leg movement, although taller individuals might find rear legroom somewhat limited on longer journeys.
The Škoda 130 sedan features a traditional trunk with an estimated cargo capacity of roughly 350 liters (12.4 cubic feet). This space is adequate for everyday use such as groceries, small luggage, or tools. However, given the car's relatively compact size and design priorities focused on passenger accommodation and affordability, the trunk volume is not exceptionally large compared to modern sedans but remains functional for typical 1980s family and commuter needs.
Yes, the Škoda 130's dimensions make it well-suited to fit comfortably into a standard residential garage. With a length of 4,240 mm (167 in), width of 1,610 mm (63 in), and height of approximately 1,435 mm (56.5 in), it is smaller than most typical garage dimensions, which usually measure around 6 meters (20 feet) in length and 3 meters (10 feet) in width internally. This ensures owners can park the Škoda 130 without difficulty while still having room to maneuver around the vehicle in the garage.
The Škoda 130, introduced in 1984, is a direct evolution of the Škoda 105 and 120 series. Dimensionally, the Škoda 130 is very similar, maintaining the same basic platform and exterior size. Both the Škoda 130 and its predecessors share comparable lengths around 4,200 mm (165.4 in), widths near 1,610 mm (63 in), and similar heights. However, the 130 brought improvements mainly in engine capacity and minor refinements rather than major dimensional changes. The continuation of size helped preserve the established balance of interior space and maneuverability familiar to users of the earlier models.
The Škoda 130 fits neatly within the compact sedan category typical of the mid-1980s European market. Compared to peers like the Volkswagen Golf Mk2 or the Fiat Ritmo, the Škoda 130's length of about 4,240 mm (167 in) and width of 1,610 mm (63 in) is somewhat smaller or on par. While the Golf Mk2 tends to be slightly wider and heavier, the Škoda offers a leaner profile and lighter weight, which influences its driving characteristics. Its size makes it competitive for urban handling and parking convenience, though it generally offers less interior refinement and modern amenities compared to Western European rivals.
The Škoda 130 features a fuel tank capacity of approximately 43 liters (11.4 gallons US). Considering its small-displacement engine and lightweight construction, the car achieves relatively economical fuel consumption figures for its time, estimated around 7 to 8 liters per 100 kilometers (29 to 33 miles per gallon). This translates to an approximate driving range of about 500 to 600 kilometers (310 to 373 miles) on a full tank, depending on driving conditions. This range made the Škoda 130 practical for daily use and longer trips in the context of 1980s Eastern European transportation.
The Škoda 130 sedan is equipped with a rear-mounted, air-cooled inline-four engine with a displacement of 1,289 cc. It typically produces around 58 horsepower and 90 Nm (66 lb-ft) of torque. This modest power output suits the car's lightweight body and intended use as an affordable, reliable commuter vehicle. The top speed is approximately 135 km/h (84 mph), with 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62 mph) acceleration times around 20 seconds, reflecting its focus on economy rather than sporty performance.
The Škoda 130 maintained the classic rear-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout of its predecessors but featured updated styling and minor improvements. The front grille and lighting were refreshed for a more contemporary look, and the interior saw modest upgrades in materials and ergonomics. While retaining the familiar compact sedan silhouette, Škoda emphasized improved reliability and maintenance simplicity—key priorities for buyers in the 1980s Eastern European market. Overall, the Škoda 130 was seen as a practical, sensible evolution of the popular 105/120 series rather than a radical redesign.
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