Mark Torok’s Passion for Skodas
Mark Torok’s love affair with Skodas has reached new heights, with a collection of over 70 cars that he fondly refers to as his ‘Skoda orphanage’. His passion for the brand is evident in the diverse range of vehicles he has rescued and preserved over the years, many of which date back to Skoda’s transition period in the 1990s.
One of Mark’s prized possessions is a 1973 S110 DeLuxe that he salvaged from a scrapyard in the Czech Republic. He also has a 2006 Skoda Superb V6 that he rescued from being re-exported to eastern Europe, as well as an original ‘stretched Passat’ Superb from 2002 that holds a special place in his heart.
Mark’s commitment to preserving Skodas that are often overlooked by enthusiasts is commendable. He notes, “In the UK, people’s interest in Skodas tends to skip over models like the Favorit and Felicia, which are trapped in obscurity. That’s where I come in, to ensure these forgotten gems are not lost to history.”
Despite living in assorted farm buildings in a barn-find style, Mark’s ultimate goal is to bring all his Skodas under one roof. For now, the most important thing is that they are safe from the fate of the scrapyard.
Most of Mark’s Skodas require only basic recommissioning and a thorough wash to restore them to their former glory. Skoda’s rich history dates back to 1895 when it was founded as Laurin & Klement, eventually becoming Skoda in the 1920s. Despite facing challenges during World War II and the communist era, Skoda has evolved into a respected automaker known for its reliability and innovation.
Mark Torok’s dedication to preserving Skoda’s heritage is truly inspiring, and his collection is a testament to the brand’s enduring legacy.
