Škoda Auto is celebrating its 130th anniversary this year. Thanks to its Škoda Popular and Rapid models, the company became the country’s leading car manufacturer in 1936—and has remained so ever since. The Škoda Museum is commemorating these iconic models with a special exhibition showcasing both their sporty derivatives and family versions.
Ninety years ago, the world was struck by the worst economic crisis in modern history. But as fortune favours the prepared, the Škoda brand emerged from the crisis stronger than ever. By 1936, it had reclaimed its position as the country’s largest domestic car manufacturer and exporter—a title it has held without interruption to this day.
The key to this success was the Škoda Popular, launched in the spring of 1934 at a base price of just 17,800 crowns. It quickly became the brand’s best-seller, accounting for two-thirds of total production. Together with its larger counterpart, the Škoda Rapid, these two models made up as much as 95% of orders from both domestic and international customers. The remaining orders were for higher-end models such as the Škoda Favorit and Superb.
Among the most famous owners of the Škoda Popular and Rapid were the writer Karel Čapek—whose work introduced the word ‘robot’ to the world—and the Czechoslovak national football team, led by captain František Plánička. The Baťa company also made extensive use of these vehicles. Exports flourished as well, accounting for 30.18% of orders in 1938, the last year before the war.
A Practically Innovative Concept
The original design, featuring a rigid frame chassis and independent suspension on all four wheels, provided excellent handling and ride comfort. This innovative engineering remained competitive for three decades, thanks to continuous modernisation. The Škoda Popular and Rapid appealed to both everyday drivers and more demanding customers.
These high-quality vehicles proved their durability on extreme long-distance journeys across Africa, Asia, and America, as well as in prestigious competitions such as the Monte Carlo Rally. The inseparable duo of the Škoda Popular and Rapid holds a well-deserved place in the golden history of the Mladá Boleslav car factory, which spans 130 years.
The Atmosphere of the First Republic
The new exhibition at the Škoda Museum offers a treat for lovers of classic cars, elegant streamlined designs, motorsport, and groundbreaking technology. It also tells fascinating stories of daring adventurers who travelled through Asia, America, and Africa—including the Elstner couple and the Škulin family.
Visitors can explore a collection of unique vehicles, dozens of historical photographs, intriguing artefacts, and a captivating video projection. Set in the former production halls of the Mladá Boleslav car factory—now home to the Škoda Museum—this exhibition runs until 27 April 2025.
Škoda Museum | Mladá Boleslav
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