Czechoslovakia vs USA — 1934 vs 1931
| T87 Aerodynamic Sedan | Sixteen | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 75 hp | 200 hp |
| Torque | 120 lb-ft | 500 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,968 cc | 8,064 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 18.0 sec | 20.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 100 mph | 100 mph |
| Weight | 3,020 lbs | 5,600 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,850 mm | 3,835 mm |
| Length | 4,740 mm | 5,791 mm |
| Units Produced | 3,056 | 390 |
| Original MSRP | — | $5,200 |
| Value (Excellent) | $500,000 | $650,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 9/10 | 10/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1934 Tatra T87 Aerodynamic Sedan brings quicker acceleration, lighter weight to the table, and the 1931 Marmon Sixteen answers with more power, greater rarity, stronger collectibility. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
The rivalry between Czechoslovakia and USA automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1934 Tatra T87 Aerodynamic Sedan versus 1931 Marmon Sixteen is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 1931 Marmon Sixteen holds a clear advantage in raw power with 200 hp compared to 75 hp, a 125-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Tatra T87 uses a V8 Air-Cooled OHC displacing 2,968 cc, while the Marmon Sixteen relies on a V16 OHV with 8,064 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1934 Tatra T87 Aerodynamic Sedan edges ahead at 18.0 seconds versus 20.0 seconds. The Tatra T87 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 2580 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 390 units built, the 1931 Marmon Sixteen is considerably scarcer than the Tatra T87's 3,056 examples. Both trade at comparable values on the collector market, making the choice between them largely one of personal preference.