Highlights
- Very rare 450, one of 1,010 built
- Very good original condition
- Extensive history file
- Lightweight, practical four seater convertible
- Historically important Skoda model
The Appeal
The Skoda 450 is pivotal to the firm’s history. It was the first Skoda available on the free market - no need for home market buyers to have coupons - and the first to be sold overseas.
The 450 derived its name from its 4cyl engine which developed a heady 50hp. Of the 1,010 built, 408 made their way to the USA, sales helped by the car’s modern, Western-influenced styling.
All of which makes this beautiful example particularly appealing. It is one of the last 450s built before the similar Felicia arrived, retaining the curved rear styling and column shift that distinguished these earlier cars.
It is in very good condition. It offers the buyer a historically significant, very rare and yet highly practical lightweight four-seat convertible.
The History and Paperwork
- First registered 29th December 1959
- One of the last 450s built of the 1,010 production run
- Old Controle Technique documents from around 20 years ago
- Registration document dated 27th February 2023
- Older registration paperwork included
- Retains its Slovakian registration plates
The Skoda 450 preceded the better-known but mechanically and aesthetically similar Felicia. The new car arrived in early 1959.
This car’s first registration in December 1959 would indicate it is a Felicia, but closer inspection suggests otherwise. It has a ‘450’ chassis identification and the bodywork and interior of the much rarer earlier cars. Based on the chassis number we suspect that this car was one of the last 450s built. It does however have the coil spring front set up of the later car, in place of the 450’s leaf springs.
Later Felicias can be identified by their finned rear wings, revised dashboard, coil springs and floor-mounted gear stick. This car has the 450’s sculpted rear wings, earlier dashboard and a column shift. The car has a mix of Felicia and 450 badges.
The Condition
- Well presented car in white with red vinyl interior
- Sleek and modern 450 styling with low rear wing profile
- Front wings similar to Mercedes-Benz 190 front wings
- Underside in good condition with no issues to report
- Very original car including Skoda mud flaps
- Chromework presents well being complete and undamaged
- Pretty detailing including clever door handles
- Black fabric roof in good order with clear panels and good fit
- Spacious four seater with interior in good, original condition
- Trio of classic-style helmets provided in boot
- Factory black tonneau included
- Original PAL cream dials and matching two spoke Bakelite wheel
- Whitewall tyres with chrome factory hub caps
The Mechanics
- 1,089cc 4cyl engine developing 50hp, hence the name
- Twin carburettors
- 4spd manual gearbox with column shift
- Fitted with front coil springs rather than leaf springs of standard 450
- Lightweight 930kg delivers nimble handling
- Vehicle reported to drive, stop and run well with no reported issues
BEFORE YOU BUY
This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:
✓ If the seller is registered as a private seller, consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not apply. Car & Classic’s return policy applies.
✓ A non-refundable deposit will be payable if you are the winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for details.
✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is, Where Is’ basis and without warranty. A full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase and bidding is highly recommended. Photos and descriptions are for guidance purposes only.
✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.
✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes. On request, Car & Classic may refer you to a third-party shipping company. For more details, email auctions@carandclassic.com. Prices start at €150+VAT within the same country or €400+VAT for moves across borders.
