While relatively unknown in North America, Tatra manufactured some of the most technically sophisticated cars of their time. The marque traces its lineage back to 1850 and was founded by Ignác Šustala as a wagon and carriage maker in Nesseldorf, later known as Koprivnice, Czechoslovakia. Tatra’s decidedly unusual approach to automotive design can be directly attributed to the work of Austrian engineer Hans Ledwinka, who spent his early years working under pioneering automobile and aircraft designer Edmund Rumpler.

Rarely seen on American roads, Tatras were quintessential Eastern Block cars that were renowned for their pleasurable driving experience and distinctive appearance. The T603 was typically reserved for important politicians and leaders of industry. Its rear mounted air-cooled V-8 propelled the car to over 100 mph and put out 105-hp. Over its 20-year production run, only 20,422 T603s were built.

The consignor acquired this Tatra T603 from a museum who was in the possession of the car for many years. Last year, the car was re-commissioned, including a rebuild of the brakes and hydraulic clutch system, by White Post Restorations and today it presents very well with its white paint and original interior. While it was owned by the museum, the museum staff completed a comprehensive mechanical and cosmetic restoration in-house.