Today is Thursday so that means one thing, throwback. The throwback I bring you today comes from Czech manufacturer Skoda whose 1000 MBX celebrates its 50th birthday this year. Back in 1966 long before VAG took over Skoda, they showcased this two door five seater at the Geneva Motor Show. The brand produced just 2517 models with more than half of them being exported. The MBX was based on the four door 1000 MB and both had engines at the rear of the car.
The engine itself was a 1 litre four cylinder which produced 52 bhp mated to a four speed manual which gave the 1000 MBX a top speed of around 78 mph. So by no means fast by today's standards but at least you will look good cruising thanks to it's typically brilliant 60s design. I still think the 60s was one of the best times for car design in that respect. The exterior was well glazed and with the windows up it gave the impression that the door were pillarless but in fact the pillar rolled up with the windows. The windows also gave the 1000 MBX great side visibility an created an airy feel for the occupants.
In 1967 Skoda extended the range, bringing in the 1100 MBX De Luxe which offered a 1.1 litre engine but produced the same performance figures but offered better torque, 81Nm compared to the 1000's 75.5Nm. Although not many were produced, the DBX made a significant impact on the popularisation of the brand and this car is still very sought after.