Prototypes

According to a period article (see below), this was how the ŠKODA 1201 was supposed to look after a planned modernization in 1956 for export markets. In reality, however, it never reached series production. A pity, because with these modest improvements – basically decorative touches – the somewhat bloated car (it was said that there wasn’t a single flat surface on the body) turned into a decent European limousine. But times must have been really tough if even this didn’t get approved.

I still wonder how the production cars we all know ended up with that beautiful, lavish “imperialist” hood ornament. This chrome-and-glass detail has always fascinated me because it is one of the few decorative design elements of all Škoda cars and represents pure luxury in an era constrained by strict utilitarianism. Apart from chrome bumpers and small trims, nothing comparable comes to mind. I’m grateful for that...

The second article (see below) is from modern times – from Automobil magazine, issue 2/2003 – and describes additional prototypes. Unfortunately, I’m missing the first part of that article.

Pre-series prototype. Still with mechanical flip indicators (front without recess, rear with only two lights), the pillar between the rear windows is more slanted with a vent, a different hood, and a simpler decorative nose. Doors down to the sill.

Continuation.

Continuation – delivery version.

Continuation.

Prototype 980. Period report from the magazine Svět motorů (1956). As comrades imagined it, but in the end, it never materialized.

Continuation.

V. Lorenc wrote: I have a feeling that the central “paddle” of the grille doesn’t bear the winged Škoda logo, but the proposed (and export-rejected) globe marked AZNP. Some unofficial sources even mention ZVIL = Závody V. I. Lenina.