Tatra T57- 1935

In 1931, Tatra introduced the T57 model, with the air-cooled, four cylinder, overhead valve engine placed in the front. The T57 was one of Tatra’s most popular models–four series were produced. It remained in production until after World War II. The example shown here is a T57 (series 1) and was nicknamed “Hadimrška” which means “swift little lizard.” It was produced in various body styles and concurrently with the T97 and T87. While the T87 with its v-8 engine and streamlined body was Tatra’s premier offering, the T57 was a more economical car for the masses. It lacked the top speed and braking performance (because the brakes are mechanical) of the streamlined T87 model. Consequently, the T57 was produced in large volume–26,540 models.