The 1950 Tatra T87 was among the fastest and most advanced cars of its day, featuring a unique aerodynamic design and powered by a rear-mounted, SOHC, air-cooled 3.0 liter V8 mated to a 4-speed manual transmission. This particular example is a final-year T87 that reportedly remained in Czechoslovakia before coming to the US in 2000. The seller acquired the car two years ago and has enjoyed cruising it around LA. Service work to bring it to its current driving condition has included a brake rebuild, new oil cooler, valve adjustment, transmission linkage adjustment, and replaced transmission gaiters all performed by Theos Exotic in Costa Mesa, California with receipts included. This Tatra T87 is now offered with a clean California title in the seller’s name.

The car was acquired by the seller at the 2016 Bonhams Greenwich Auction. Details from that auction stated that the car was previously purchased in Czechoslovakia in original condition and restored there before coming to the UK around 2000. It was then discovered in London by the previous owner, who reportedly acquired the T87 in August 2000 and brought it to the US shortly after.

Finished in dark blue over ivory leather, the late 1990s Czech restoration still presents nicely today. Bonhams reported that in 2010, the Tatra was sent to a Massachusetts-based T87 specialist for service and refurbishment of the gas tank and gas gauge.

1950 was the final year of the 14-year production run for the T87, which began in 1936. With a drag coefficient of just 0.36 and a curb weight of 3020 lbs, the Tatra T87 had a claimed top speed of 103 MPH. Approximately ten T87s are thought to be in the US today.

The leather-trimmed, art-deco styled cabin has seating for five. The wool headliner shows some moth damage that can be seen in more detail in the photo gallery. The seller states that the clock is not currently operable.



The Tatra T87’s unique design elements include rear-hinged front doors, a center-mounted spotlight, and the magnesium alloy, air-cooled V8 topped by a stability-enhancing dorsal fin. The underside is detailed in the 180+ photo gallery below.

The seller is a collector of interesting and oddball vintage cars, and this T87 shares garage space with a Messerschmitt KR200, Fiat Multipla, Hudson Hornet, Citroen Traction Avant, and Bentley 4 1/4 Saloon, among others. Start-up, drive-by, and in-car videos can be viewed below.