A pristine 1971 Škoda 706 RTO bus is currently listed for sale at 8,990,000 CZK, according to listings on Bazoš.cz and Rájveteránů.cz. The vehicle underwent a complete restoration in 2011 and has traveled fewer than 2,000 kilometers since. This iconic Czechoslovak coach, produced by Karosa between 1958 and 1972, remains a highly sought-after collector’s item due to its historical significance and unique design.
Why is the Škoda 706 RTO considered a design icon?
The Škoda 706 RTO represents a golden era of Czechoslovak industrial design, blending the robust mechanics of the 706 RT truck with a specialized passenger body. The name itself is a technical descriptor: “RTO” stands for rámový, trambusový, osobní (frame-based, cab-over, passenger), while the “706” references the vehicle’s seven-ton capacity and six-cylinder engine, as reported by industry records.
Did you know? The Škoda 706 RTO was so highly regarded that it was manufactured under license in Poland as the Jelcz until 1977, five years after production ceased in Czechoslovakia.
What technical specifications defined the 706 RTO?
At the heart of the bus lies a 11,781 cm³ water-cooled diesel six-cylinder engine, producing 118 kW. This powerplant, paired with a five-speed manual transmission, allowed the bus to serve diverse roles ranging from urban transit to international luxury travel. According to historical manufacturing data, the bus measured 10,810 mm in length and featured a wheelbase of 5,450 mm.
Variation in configuration
The flexibility of the RTO platform allowed for three distinct primary versions:
- MTZ/MEX: Designed for urban environments with double-leaf doors.
- KAR: A suburban variant featuring one door, overhead storage, and a roof rack for up to 44 passengers.
- LUX: A long-distance coach model equipped with glass roof arches, curtains, and seating for 40, tailored for international routes.
How does the current market value these vintage coaches?
The asking price of nearly 9 million CZK reflects the rarity of a fully restored, low-mileage example. While standard models appear frequently in historical archives, vehicles that have undergone professional refurbishment to this standard are scarce. The seller has indicated a willingness to accept the highest offer, signaling a competitive market for high-end automotive heritage assets.
Pro Tip: Assessing Restoration Quality
When evaluating vintage buses like the RTO, experts look for documentation of the 2011-era restoration process. Verify if the engine components—specifically the specialized injection nozzles and pumps—remain true to the original 1971 specifications to ensure the vehicle retains its collector value.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Where were these buses originally manufactured?
- While the brand was Škoda, the bodies were completed by Karosa in Vysoké Mýto, and the chassis were produced by LIAZ in Liberec.
- How many Škoda 706 RTO units were produced?
- Total production reached 14,451 vehicles between 1958 and 1972, with additional units assembled in Holýšov.
- Is the current 9-million CZK price typical?
- Prices fluctuate based on condition and provenance. A fully restored, showroom-ready unit represents the top tier of the market, which is significantly higher than non-functional or “project” buses.
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