Ikarus 250: A Hungarian “City Bus” Through the Years
The Ikarus model 250 was built in Székesfehérvár, Hungary, from 1967 to 1996. In the later stages of the Series 200, the 250.93 from the 1990 release demonstrated how adjustments accumulated over time. The main distinction between urban and intercity versions lies in layout: city buses place the engine at the base, while the tourist version locates the engine toward the stern. This arrangement helps explain the use of gearboxes and drive shafts in certain configurations.
Subsequent models adopted inline six cylinder RABA-MAN D2156 engines with a displacement of 10.35 liters. Power rose to 220 hp even when the turbine option was chosen. The gearbox remained a six-speed mechanical ZF unit.
Interesting numbers
The bus spans nearly 12 meters in length, yet space had to be allocated carefully for numerous essential components. The port side last compartment houses 24-volt batteries, moved forward from a niche on a special sled for service by technicians. The next compartment contains heaters for the coolant and an independent interior heater.
The fuel tank holds 250 liters. With a stated consumption of 21.5 l/100 km, the theoretical range exceeds 1000 km, assuming a constant speed of 60 km/h in the calculation.
Ahead of the vehicle, the pneumatic system controls live inside the bus, including brakes, suspension, and door actuation. There are two luggage compartments on the left and four on the starboard side. In passenger car terms, the boot volume of the Ikarus 250 measures 5.2 cubic meters.
Ikarus, open up!
In later variants both doors became automatic with a pneumatic drive. Entry was activated by the driver via a mass switch and the door opener from beneath the hatch at the front. The automatic doors were a remarkable feature for those years, making a strong impression compared with earlier manual door systems.
Better than on an airplane!
The cabin accommodates 51 comfortable seats. Contemporary reporting described the interior as being as good as, or better than, air travel, a sentiment echoed by many observers. Exterior seating can slide toward the aisle, creating a more generous sense of space—a feature that surprised many during the Soviet era as a genuine marvel.
Air circulates through the cabin from both above and below, with individual upper ventilation and lighting. Curtains are fitted, and three roof hatches provide ventilation, two of which also serve as emergency exits. The driver benefits from a well-appointed workspace, including a sprung, adjustable seat, practical control panels, light pedals, and heated door mirrors.
Hungarian Zhiguli
An acquaintance who worked on an Ikarus during the 1980s described the control feel as similar to a Zhiguli, noting that the layout is not overly difficult to master given the bus’s size. The air suspension helps smooth out road irregularities, and the main challenge lies in mastering the gear lever’s larger movements. Once accustomed, the pneumatic brakes become second nature. The driver’s area remains practical and clearly laid out, reflecting thoughtful attention to long-term comfort and efficiency.
Let’s go to the past
Over the years, many Ikarus buses faded, decaying with time. Yet the 1990 model in question has endured, surviving largely through cosmetic repairs that delight retro enthusiasts and travelers alike. The current owner appears to care for the vehicle with evident affection, underscoring why these buses remain beloved icons. The sentiment around this machine captures the nostalgia of a generation that has passed.
Note: A brief discussion thread about this topic can be found in Telegram under the moniker “Behind the wheel”.