Czechoslovakia vs USA — 1934 vs 1933
| T87 Aerodynamic Sedan | Silver Arrow | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 75 hp | 175 hp |
| Torque | 120 lb-ft | 400 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,968 cc | 7,031 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 18.0 sec | 18.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 100 mph | 115 mph |
| Weight | 3,020 lbs | 5,600 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,850 mm | 3,556 mm |
| Length | 4,740 mm | 5,690 mm |
| Units Produced | 3,056 | 5 |
| Original MSRP | — | $10,000 |
| Value (Excellent) | $500,000 | $1,500,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 9/10 | 10/10 |
The 1933 Pierce-Arrow Silver Arrow emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1934 Tatra T87 Aerodynamic Sedan counters with lighter weight, better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
Putting the 1934 Tatra T87 Aerodynamic Sedan against the 1933 Pierce-Arrow Silver Arrow is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — Czechoslovakia versus USA. The 1933 Pierce-Arrow Silver Arrow holds a clear advantage in raw power with 175 hp compared to 75 hp, a 100-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 Pierce-Arrow Silver Arrow relies on a V12 OHV with 7,031 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1933 Pierce-Arrow Silver Arrow edges ahead at 18.0 seconds versus 18.0 seconds. The Tatra T87 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 2580 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 5 units built, the 1933 Pierce-Arrow Silver Arrow is considerably scarcer than the Tatra T87's 3,056 examples. On the collector market, the 1933 Pierce-Arrow Silver Arrow commands a significant premium over the 1934 Tatra T87 Aerodynamic Sedan, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.