The Tatra T77, introduced in 1934, was a groundbreaking automobile designed under the guidance of Hans Ledwinka and influenced by Zeppelin designer Paul Jaray.This Czechoslovakian masterpiece revolutionized automotive design wiht its radical principles, featuring a teardrop-shaped body that minimized drag and maximized efficiency, setting new standards in automotive aerodynamics.
Only 106 Tatra T77s were made before the T77A was released, and it is believed that there are now just five restored and drivable T77s left in the world. The car you see here is a rare Tatra T77 from the first year of production – 1934.It was one of the first Tatra 77 streamlined cars ever produced, with a total of 105 units built between 1934 and 1936.
The T77a type, a later modernization of the Tatra T77, was rebuilt in 1938. This particular car, with the number 23038, received a new production label in Tatra.The typical adjustment that Tatra performed was the engine replacement. Instead of a three-liter engine, a 3.4-liter engine was installed, which also increased the power from 44 kW to 55 kW. Originally, the car had an air-cooled eight power of 44 kW, but thanks to the body, it could drive up to 145 km/h.
The history of this car is also documented, including a period where it was hidden during communist governance in Czechoslovakia and was found only in the 1990s. The car was eventually restored and is now one of the few drivable T77s in the world.
The current owner had already exhibited it in Paris,but at that time the car was dull black. The car was cleaned from non-native elements and preserved. He was also returned to the original form of the bow of the T77,” Kasík says. This was followed by the renovation to its current form, which they, according to Kasik, carried out in Kopřivnice. Now the black T77 with a larger engine for sale. “This specimen is well renovated and quite original. Who woudl like to have it perfect, there is still room, but it is a decent and interesting piece ” adds the collector.
Photo author: Tatra
History of Tatra 77
Table of Contents
On March 5, 1934, Tatra 77 was presented in Prague, the first Kopřivnice model with a non-body, which also worked on the legendary designer Hans Ledwinka. It was also the first car from Kopřivnice, which received a steel semi-nose body. It was over 5.1 meters in length and hid a place for six passengers inside.
At the back was placed air-cooled eight-cylinder with a three-liter volume of 44 kW. Even so, the maximum speed was 145 km/h. The car cost 80 thousand crowns, it was astronomical money in the mid-1930s.
The modernization of the T77A arrived in 1935 and extended the non-body. The engine volume increased to 3.4 liters and the power increased to 55 kW. Production ended in 1938, together 255 pieces of this car were created.
The value is increased by the fact that it is one of the only 25 existing T77 pieces.In total, only 255 were established between 1934 and 1938, including the aforementioned modernization with the letter A.
We can also mention the sale of another Tatra 77, namely the 1934 specimens, which sold two years ago in the US at that time for 8.64 million crowns. The RM Sotheby’s auction house estimated the price up to four times higher.Just as the car passed a lengthy renovation, which was reported to cost a million dollars. This is one of the reasons why the car was nicknamed the “million dollar Tatra”.
But it is the renovation, in which many parts were replaced, incorrectly newly manufactured and many essential elements have been removed, according to experts, the car has rather destroyed and will require professional renovation in the future. The car lost, such as, a snap roof and many drivers, changed the color of upholstery and interior.
Arophic Marvel: Exploring the Legacy of tatra T77, a Pioneer in Automotive Design
the Tatra T77, introduced in 1934 under the guidance of Hans Ledwinka and influenced by Zeppelin designer Paul Jaray, revolutionized automotive design with its teardrop-shaped body that minimized drag and maximized efficiency. Today, we sit down with renowned automotive historian and expert on Czechoslovakian automobiles, Dr. Pietro Rossi, to delve into the captivating history and enduring legacy of this Czechoslovakian masterpiece.
A Historic Introduction: The Birth of Tatra T77
World Today News: Dr.Rossi, could you begin by introducing us to the Tatra T77 and its meaning in automotive history?
Dr. Pietro Rossi: The Tatra T77 is a landmark vehicle that marked a pivotal point in automobile design. Presented on March 5, 1934, in Prague, it was the first Tatra model to feature a streamlined body, integrating advanced principles blended with the innovations of Hans Ledwinka and Paul Jaray. Its introduction revolutionized the understanding of vehicle aerodynamics and set new standards for efficiency and speed.
World Today News: How did the T77’s design elements differentiate it from contemporary cars?
Dr. Pietro Rossi: The T77’s design stands out for its teardrop shape,which significantly reduces drag. This was an unprecedented achievement in the 1930s, allowing the car to achieve top speeds around 145 km/h, a remarkable figure for that era. Its 44 kW, air-cooled eight engine further enhanced its performance and efficiency. Its production was astronomically expensive, costing 80 thousand crowns, underscoring its exclusivity.
The Evolution and 1938 Modernization
World Today News: Can you discuss the modernization of the T77 into the T77A?
Dr. Pietro Rossi: In 1935, the T77 received a significant overhaul resulting in the T77A. The engine volume was enlarged to 3.4 liters,boosting power output to 55 kW. This not only enhanced the car’s performance but also its longevity, with the final production batch totaling 255 units by 1938. The body extensions and enhanced engine capacity marked a pivotal evolution in the Tatra T77’s trajectory.
Rarity and Past Significance
World Today News: given the rarity of T77s, how does owning one today effect its market value?
Dr. Pietro Rossi: Owning a Tatra T77 today is akin to preserving a piece of automotive history. With only an estimated 25 remaining, these cars hold immense value. Notably, a 1934 T77 specimen sold for 8.64 million crowns in the US, with auction houses estimating prices up to four times higher. The term “million dollar Tatra” reflects just how valuable these historic vehicles have become.
The Challenges of Preservation
World Today News: How does one go about preserving or restoring a T77 to its original glory?
Dr. Pietro Rossi: The renovation of T77s is crucial yet challenging. while the “million dollar Tatra” received significant restoration, many parts were incorrectly manufactured, and several essential elements were removed, which experts argue have done more harm than good. proper restoration requires preserving original components, maintaining the car’s unique aerodynamics, and respecting its historical integrity.
Conclusion
World Today News: Dr. Rossi, why is the Tatra T77 important in the broader context of automotive history?
Dr. Pietro Rossi: The Tatra T77 symbolizes the avant-garde spirit of automotive design in the 1930s. Its iconic teardrop shape, groundbreaking engine, and exclusionary price tag set it apart, making it a trailblazer in the realm of aerodynamics. While today only a handful are drivable, their historical and economic significance continues to resonate, shaping the future of automotive preservation and thankfulness.
