In 1932, Tatra designed a prototype automobile with a rear engine, placing it in the same league as the Volkswagen. This innovative approach led to the production of the Tatra 77 in 1934, a large car featuring a V8 rear engine. A few hundred Tatra 77s were made before the introduction of the T87, which also had a V8 engine but was of a more modern design. The T87 replaced the wood and steel body with a unibody construction, making the car lighter and improving weight distribution between the front and rear axles due to the aluminum engine.
In 1936, Tatra embarked on another project, resulting in the T97. This smaller car followed the same advanced technology as the T87. Manufacturing of the T97 began in 1938, but production was abruptly halted when Czechoslovakia was invaded by Germany on March 15, 1939. Hitler ordered the cessation of T97 production because it was too similar to the Volkswagen, which was slated to be released in Germany that same year.
The Tatra 97 featured a streamlined, aerodynamic design that was cost-efficient yet luxurious. Its rear-mounted engine and unibody construction were innovations that set it apart from other vehicles of its time. Despite its advanced design and promising start, only 510 Tatra 97s were made, making it a very rare automobile today.
The Tatra 97 remains a significant example of early automotive engineering, showcasing Hans Ledwinka's vision of combining luxury with aerodynamic efficiency. The car's rarity and historical significance make it a prized possession for collectors and automotive enthusiasts alike.
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