The prototype of a new Škoda model called the Spartak was presented in 1954 as an intermediate type of the so-called “peoples” vehicle and a year later in public as the Škoda 440 model; however nobody ever called it anything but the Spartak.

A 440 engine with a cubic capacity of 1089 cc and 40 horsepower was a redesigned unit from the 1101 model, but with an aluminium block and new intake manifold and carburettor.

The Škoda 445 was created by installing a larger 1221 cc engine in 1957. A successful sporting version of the Škoda 450, with fold-down roof and modified engine with twin carburettors and 50 horsepower, was subsequently manufactured in the plant in Kvasiny.