Picture this: the narrow roads of the Czech Republic, the sun setting, and you're sitting behind the wheel of an elegant coupe that combines the charm of the 1970s with the technology of the future. The Škoda 110 R Concept is just that – a digital masterpiece that revives the legendary name, but instead of the rumble of a four-cylinder from the past, it offers the quiet power of electricity. But before you get too excited, let me warn you: this car only exists on screens. A shame, right?
The original Skoda 110 R, which saw the light of day in 1970, was the dream car of the working class. With its rear engine and rear-wheel drive, it was affordable, but still expensive – it cost around 78,000 Czech crowns, which at the time was equivalent to 40 monthly salaries. Despite this, it found 57,085 buyers during its ten-year production run (until December 1980). Weighing just 880 kg (1,940 lbs) and producing a modest 38 kW (52 hp), it took 19 seconds to reach 100 km/h (62 mph). Slower than a snail on Valium by today’s standards, but back then? A real star.
The new 110 R Concept, part of Škoda's series Icons Get a Makeover, is the work of designer Richard Švec, who transformed the old icon in accordance with the brand's design language Modern SolidForget retro lines – this coupe is sharp, minimalist and filled with futuristic details.
Breathtaking design
The Škoda 110 R Concept is a visual treat. At the front, a black strip hides the sensors, giving the car a clean, almost mysterious look. Sliding headlights and taillights? Yes, please! Without the classic door handles and with side cameras instead of mirrors, the profile is as smooth as James Bond after shaving. The aerodynamic rims and functional air vents below the rear side windows are a tribute to the original, which had air vents for engine cooling. At the rear, the badge S 110 R – a small but powerful reminder of heritage.
Technical specifications are not disclosed, as this is a concept that lives only in the digital world. But if we were to dream, this coupe would be as light as a feather – perhaps even lighter than the original’s 880 kg. The electric motor would probably offer lightning-fast acceleration, a far cry from the original’s 19 seconds, and a top speed that would surpass its predecessor’s modest 145 km/h (90 mph). Battery capacity? Charging speed? Your guess is as good as mine, but based on Skoda’s electric models like the Enyaq, we could expect a battery of around 77 kWh and charging with up to 135 kW.
Why isn't this reality?
Reality hits like a cold shower
The Škoda 110 R Concept is beautiful, but woefully impractical. The coupe segment is shrinking faster than the ozone layer in the 1980s. Add in an electric drivetrain that drives up the price and Škoda's lack of prestige in the sports car world, and you have a recipe for a project that would make accountants cry. The Volkswagen Group would rather bet on Audi (with its Concept C) or Porsche (the upcoming electric Boxster/Cayman). If the group were to decide on an affordable sports car, it would probably wear the VW badge - just remember the ill-fated BlueSport that never made it onto the road.
What is it that excites you anyway?
Although the 110 R Concept is just a digital mirage, it is a testament to ŠKODA's design courage. Minimalist lines, bold details and a nod to history show that the brand knows how to dream – and dream beautifully. If this car were real, it would be perfect for those looking for something different, something that combines nostalgia with modern technology. And who knows? Maybe one day ŠKODA will surprise us with an electric coupe that will actually hit the road.
Conclusion: The dream we want to live
The Škoda 110 R Concept is like a love letter to car enthusiasts – full of passion, but without the promise of fulfillment. It’s proof that the Czechs can create something that excites, even if it’s only in digital form. Although there are no technical details, we can imagine a light, fast and elegant electric coupe that would turn heads on the road. The price? It would probably be too high for the average Škoda buyer, but one can dream. And while this car will never drive off the computer screen, it gives us hope that Škoda can still create something that makes the pulse race. Now, Škoda, give us something like this in the real world!
