The backbone design was aimed to solve the lack of torsional stiffness in the ladder frame of previous models.

The chassis was developed under the leadership of chief engineer Vladimír Matouš and derived from one designed by Hans Ledwinka for Tatra.

It had enlarged the engine to 1,558 cc and given it overhead valves, which increased power to 42 PS (31 kW), although top speed remained 100 km/h (62 mph).

[8] In 1938 Škoda launched a streamlined version of the 1,558 cc Rapid OHV with a new aerodynamic two-door saloon body.

[9] It bears a strong resemblance to the streamlined four-door body that Škoda built for its Type 935 prototypes in 1935–38.