Czechoslovakia vs USA — 1934 vs 1939
| T87 Aerodynamic Sedan | Zephyr Continental | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 75 hp | 120 hp |
| Torque | 120 lb-ft | 240 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,968 cc | 4,785 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 18.0 sec | 16.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 100 mph | 93 mph |
| Weight | 3,020 lbs | 3,900 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,850 mm | 3,150 mm |
| Length | 4,740 mm | 5,232 mm |
| Units Produced | 3,056 | 404 |
| Original MSRP | — | $2,840 |
| Value (Excellent) | $500,000 | $175,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 9/10 | 8/10 |
The 1939 Lincoln Zephyr Continental emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, greater rarity. The 1934 Tatra T87 Aerodynamic Sedan counters with higher top speed, lighter weight, 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.
When Czechoslovakia engineering meets USA craftsmanship, the result is one of the most compelling matchups in the classic car world. The 1934 Tatra T87 Aerodynamic Sedan and 1939 Lincoln Zephyr Continental embody their respective national automotive traditions while competing in the same arena. The 1939 Lincoln Zephyr Continental holds a clear advantage in raw power with 120 hp compared to 75 hp, a 45-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 Lincoln Zephyr relies on a V12 Flathead with 4,785 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1939 Lincoln Zephyr Continental edges ahead at 16.0 seconds versus 18.0 seconds. The Tatra T87 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 880 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 404 units built, the 1939 Lincoln Zephyr Continental is considerably scarcer than the Tatra T87's 3,056 examples. On the collector market, the 1934 Tatra T87 Aerodynamic Sedan commands a significant premium over the 1939 Lincoln Zephyr Continental, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.