1936 Tatra T87
IN 1936 Tatra revised their flagship T77A into the smaller, more nimble T87. In the process they also fitted a smaller V8 engine that was capable to propel the car to 160 kph (100mph).
Although production was split by the war, T87 producion continued up to 1950. Notable owners included Ernst Heinkel, Felix Wankel, Erwin Rommel, John Steinbeck, King Farouk of Egypt, Sir Norman Foster and Jay Leno.
In Detail
| type | Series Production Car |
| built at | Kopřivnice, Czech Republic |
| engine | V8 |
| position | Rear, Longitudinal |
| displacement | 3000 cc / 183.07 in³ |
Auction Sales History
1948 Tatra T87 – sold for $132,000
The current owner purchased this T87 sedan more recently from Chicago redevelopment entrepreneur Larry Klairmont. An older restoration, the car had been part of his eclectic Klairmont Kollections, a 300-car private museum. On display for a number of years, it had been scarcely driven and, as such, has recently been thoroughly re-commissioned for the road. A number of cosmetic issues were addressed, including a new maroon leather interior and re-chroming and detailing of the brightwork, which involved sourcing some parts from the Czech Republic. The car is newly fitted with wide whitewall tires on body-color wheels. Thus refreshed, it is equally suited for display, concours competition, or simply pleasure driving.
Auction Source: RM Sotheby’s Monterey 2015
1948 Tatra T87 222328 – sold for €115,000
The car offered here was acquired by the present owner in Germany, and it was reportedly complete and in driving condition at the time. Prior to its restoration, it was actually featured in the January 2014 German edition of Octane magazine. It was restored in that country by a Mr Drescher, who was located near Friedrichshafen, and good attention to detail was paid to the restoration of the car. The structural woodwork was completely replaced, the body was totally stripped and refinished, and expert bodywork was performed to offer the best possible presentation. The interior upholstery was still in good original condition, but it was replaced with new leather to further upgrade the car’s appearance, and it is overseen by the optional sliding sunroof.
Auction Source: 2015 Paris by RM Auctions
1947 Tatra T87 Sedan 69324 – sold for $126,500 Offered from a Private Collection. Iconic Ledwinka design *Extensive restoration. Striking color combination. Rare V8 powered Tatra.
Auction Source: 2013 Quail Lodge Auction by Bonhams
1948 Tatra T87 73274 – sold for €103,500 This T87 has been comprehensively restored to original specification using new-old-stock or renovated parts, and has covered only 100 kilometres since completion in 2008. Finished in blue with grey interior, this iconic Tatra ‘streamliner’ is offered with sundry technical documents.
Auction Source: 2013 Les Grandes Marques du Monde au Grand Palais
