1948 CIA Report - Tatra 87 Automobile

Central Intelligence Agency
Country: Czechoslovakia
Date: 5 October 1948
Subject: Tatra 87 Automobile
Pages: 1






Comment: Sometimes "intelligence gathering" involves nothing more than photocopying a brochure it seems.

1948 NAMI Tatra T87 Review

"This report presents materials on the testing of the Tatra-87 model 1948 (mainly in terms of its aerodynamics, fuel consumption, stability, cross-country ability and comfort). Special attention is paid to the features connected with the rear location of the engine on this vehicle / weight distribution on the axles, body layout, etc./, as well as its aerodynamics and economy.

Tests have shown good aerodynamic and economic qualities of the car. Fuel consumption can be reduced by 15-20% without compromising the vehicles aerodynamics by eliminating assembly defects and changing the carburetor adjustment.

The unusual arrangement of the drive unit for this class of vehicle (rear engine placement) improves the use of space, visibility, streamlining, economy and insulates the passengers from engine noise, but the large weight of the power unit leads to unsatisfactory stability.

The vehicle is equipped with a drive unit of an outdated design, which is why, in particular, the smoothness of the ride and ease of control of the vehicle are inadequate.

The car's cross-country ability is average."

Translation into English is underway