Tatra T80

vs

Hispano-Suiza H6B

Czechoslovakia vs Spain — 1931 vs 1919

Tatra T80 (1931)
Hispano-Suiza H6B (1919)
Specifications
T80 V12H6B Tulipwood Torpedo
Horsepower120 hp135 hp
Engine Size5,990 cc6,597 cc
Top Speed93 mph85 mph
Weight5,512 lbs4,409 lbs
Wheelbase3,560 mm3,600 mm
Length5,350 mm
Units Produced2,350
Value (Excellent)$1,500,000$8,000,000
Collectibility9/1010/10
Rarity10/109/10
The Verdict

It's a closely fought contest. The 1931 Tatra T80 V12 brings higher top speed, better value to the table, and the 1919 Hispano-Suiza H6B Tulipwood Torpedo answers with more power, lighter weight, stronger collectibility. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.

Overview

The rivalry between Czechoslovakia and Spain automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1931 Tatra T80 V12 versus 1919 Hispano-Suiza H6B Tulipwood Torpedo is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1931 Tatra T80 V12 producing 120 hp and the 1919 Hispano-Suiza H6B Tulipwood Torpedo delivering 135 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Tatra T80 uses a V12 OHV displacing 5,990 cc, while the Hispano-Suiza H6B relies on a Inline-6 SOHC with 6,597 cc. The 1931 Tatra T80 V12 claims a higher top speed at 93 mph compared to 85 mph. The Hispano-Suiza H6B carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1103 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 1919 Hispano-Suiza H6B Tulipwood Torpedo commands a significant premium over the 1931 Tatra T80 V12, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.