1948 Tatra T87

In the late 1940s, a groundbreaking vehicle emerged that would challenge conventional design norms and fascinate car enthusiasts for decades – the 1948 Tatra T87. This Czech-made marvel stood out for its innovation, showcasing aerodynamic principles that outpaced its contemporaries.

The T87’s exterior reflected the imaginative work of Austrian-born designer Hans Ledwinka and Czech engineer Erich Übelacker. Inspired by Paul Jaray’s aerodynamic theories, they shaped a sleek, streamlined body achieving an impressive drag coefficient of 0.36.

The car’s distinctive silhouette featured a sloping rear end, reminiscent of a dorsal fin, which improved airflow and gave the T87 its unmistakable profile. Chrome accents adorned the front grille and ran along the body, adding elegance to its futuristic form.

Behind the rear axle sat a Czech masterpiece: A 2,969 cc overhead cam air-cooled V-8 engine. This powerplant generated 85 bhp, which may seem modest now but was quite potent then. The rear-engine layout, combined with the car’s aerodynamic design, allowed the T87 to reach speeds up to 100 mph – a mojor achievement for a production car of the late 1940s.

Innovative engineering extended to the T87’s suspension system. It used independent front suspension with twin transverse leaf springs and a swing-axle rear suspension with a transverse leaf spring. This setup, paired with four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes, provided handling and stopping power that was progressive for its time.

T87 production continued until 1950, with few examples reaching the United States. This rarity has added to the car’s mystique and appeal among collectors. Today, a well-preserved or restored T87 draws attention wherever it appears, serving as a mobile exhibit showcasing the ingenuity and forward-thinking design philosophy of its creators.