The Skoda that originated under the Volkswagen Group has a solid image. Only a select group of enthusiasts think back to the products of yesteryear with the rear engine when hearing the Czech brand name, but thanks to this 105L we all do that today.
Volkswagen’s influence on the Skoda brand started in the 1990s with the Felicia. Before that, there was already the front-wheel drive Favorit, and that’s why we find the model series that matters now. The rear-wheel drives that were in showrooms in many countries between 1976 and 1990 are known under a three-digit model name that simply reflects engine size and trim level.
Despite the fairly traditional sedan shape and the large grille, these Skodas are far from traditional by contemporary standards. The tailgate does not hide a spacious trunk, but an engine compartment with a modest four-cylinder engine. The luggage compartment was in the front and was accessible through a front flap that did not open forwards or backwards, but to the side.
The gray Skoda that shines here is a fairly late specimen. This is quite easy to see from the – typical 80s – black bumpers, ditto grille and the much larger, horizontally placed rear lights that were introduced in ’81. On the car in question, the front bumper, rear bumper and grille are even split in two, which, according to the information we could find in the more questionable corners of the internet, is a hallmark of cars produced after ’84.
That is a good thing, because this original Dutch Skoda dates from 1987 and has since known at most two, but perhaps even only one owner. The first owner ordered his Czech wonder as 105L, which means that the base engine was screwed into the rear. With a displacement of 1.05 liters, that block made it to about 45 hp, while the more powerful 120 versions made it to values ​​of around 50 hp. Unnecessary excess, if you ask us. However, the buyer of this Skoda spoiled himself with the L-trim, which is one step higher on the ladder than the previously spotted S version. The decadence …