The **Skoda 422** holds a special place in history as the car that made Skoda a household name during the Great Depression. Launched in 1929, it was the "Smallest of the Big Skodas," designed to offer high-quality engineering in a compact, affordable package during tough economic times.
### **Technical Specifications & Engineering:**
* **Engine:** A compact 4-cylinder, water-cooled unit.
* **Displacement:** 1,195 cc (1.2L), perfect for fuel efficiency.
* **Power Output:** Delivering a steady **22 horsepower**.
* **Transmission:** 3-speed manual gearbox with precise shifting.
* **Chassis:** It featured a robust **ladder frame** and leaf spring suspension, built to handle the rough European roads of the 1930s.
* **Top Speed:** It could reach a respectable **75 km/h**.
### **The Practical Revolution:**
The 422 was famous for its **all-steel body construction**, which was a modern advancement at the time. It was offered in several body styles, including the 2-door "Tudor," the 4-door "Sedan," and even a stylish "Coupe." Its success was rooted in its **low maintenance costs** and incredible durability. While the world was struggling financially, the Skoda 422 kept people moving, proving that luxury and reliability could exist in a small, economical frame.
---