Tatra 77
Car : Tatra 77
Year : 1935
Engine :V-8
Bore and stroke :80?84 mm
Cylinder capacity : 3380 cc
Gears : 4 forward
Brake horse power : 60
Maximum speed : 100 mph
Wheelbase :10 ft 4 ins (3.15 m)
Suspension : front: independent with transverse leaf- springs ;
rear : independent with coil springs
The origins of this firm go as far back as 1850, but actual car production did not begin until 1897. This was synonymous with the arrival of Hans Ledwinka, an exceptionally gifted engineer who has left an indelible mark on the history of the car.
Tatra 77
The 77, which is considered his masterpiece, appeared at the 1934 Berlin Motor Show, where it excited great interest because of its advanced features, including independent suspension to all four wheels, an air cooled rear mounted V8 engine, hydraulic brakes, a gearbox with 4 synchromesh gears and a centralized lubrication system. The body shape was also highly original, its aerodynamic design being of particular importance. Other ingenious details were the central driver’s seat, the space for luggage under the back seat and the two spare wheels kept in the front trunk. The maximum speed of this highly original car was about 100 mph. The 77 was followed by the 77A which and a reduced capacity of 2900 cc and a maximum speed of about 95 mph. The distinctive body shape of these cars suggested a stylistically similar design to Ferdinand Porsche for his new legendary Volkswagen Beetle. Hans Ledwinka has passed into motoring history as one of the most innovative automobile engineers.
