Skoda Fabia RS

vs

Skoda Octavia RS

Czech Republic vs Czech Republic — 2003 vs 2013

Skoda Fabia RS (2003)
Skoda Octavia RS (2013)
Specifications
Fabia RS vRS 1.9 TDIOctavia RS vRS 245
Horsepower130 hp245 hp
Torque229 lb-ft273 lb-ft
Engine Size1,896 cc1,984 cc
0-60 mph9.0 sec6.4 sec
Top Speed127 mph155 mph
¼ Mile17.0 sec14.5 sec
Weight2,668 lbs3,109 lbs
Wheelbase2,462 mm2,686 mm
Length3,975 mm4,689 mm
Original MSRP$38,000
Value (Excellent)$18,000$45,000
Collectibility4/103/10
Rarity5/103/10
The Verdict

It's a closely fought contest. The 2003 Skoda Fabia RS vRS 1.9 TDI brings lighter weight, stronger collectibility, better value to the table, and the 2013 Skoda Octavia RS vRS 245 answers with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.

Overview

Skoda has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 2003 Skoda Fabia RS vRS 1.9 TDI with the 2013 Skoda Octavia RS vRS 245 highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 2013 Skoda Octavia RS vRS 245 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 245 hp compared to 130 hp, a 115-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Skoda Fabia RS uses a Inline-4 SOHC Turbodiesel displacing 1,896 cc, while the Skoda Octavia RS relies on a Inline-4 DOHC Turbocharged with 1,984 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2013 Skoda Octavia RS vRS 245 edges ahead at 6.4 seconds versus 9.0 seconds. The Skoda Fabia RS carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 441 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 2013 Skoda Octavia RS vRS 245 commands a significant premium over the 2003 Skoda Fabia RS vRS 1.9 TDI, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.