Tatra 87
The aerodynamic masterpiece that defined the future of high-speed travel.
- Power
- 75 bhp
- Top speed
- 99 mph
- Est. value
- $175k–$350k
About the Tatra 87
The Tatra 87 is one of the most significant automotive designs of the 20th century, pioneered by Hans Ledwinka and Erich Übelacker. Its teardrop body, featuring a prominent dorsal fin and a drag coefficient of just 0.36, allowed it to reach 100 mph with a relatively modest 3.0-litre air-cooled V8. The engine is a technical marvel, constructed from magnesium alloy and mounted behind the rear axle. While its high-speed stability was revolutionary, the rear-heavy layout earned it a reputation for challenging handling in corners, famously leading to its nickname as the 'Czech secret weapon' during WWII.
Tatra 87 specs
The Tatra 87 produces 75 bhp (56 kW). It has a top speed of 99 mph (160 km/h).
| Make | Tatra |
|---|---|
| Model | 87 |
| Trim | 3.0 |
| Years | 1936–1950 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | Czechoslovakia |
| Production | About 3,056 built |
| Engine | 3.0-litre air-cooled V8 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,969 cc (3.0 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 75 bhp (56 kW) at 3,500 rpm |
| Top speed | 99 mph (160 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,370 kg (3,020 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 55 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Tatra 87 worth?
A typical Tatra 87 is estimated to be worth $175,000 – $350,000 (about £130,000 – £261,000).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Tatra 87 rarity in CarSpot
The Tatra 87 is a Unicorn card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 98 out of 100. The rarest tier: hypercars, one-offs and cars built in tiny numbers, typically fewer than about 500. A Unicorn card is worth 320 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Tatra 87 fun facts
- The Tatra 87's aerodynamic design was so advanced that it achieved a drag coefficient of 0.36, a figure many modern cars struggled to match decades later.
- Ferdinand Porsche was heavily influenced by Tatra's designs, leading to a legal dispute that eventually saw Volkswagen pay a settlement to Tatra in 1961.
- The car features a central third headlight that was designed to turn with the steering wheel on later models, though early versions like the 1940 model typically had three fixed lamps.