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  Hans Ledwinka was one of the most original and logical thinkers ever to work in the motor industry. He believed the automobile was destined to become an object of everyday use to modern man. His creations in such varied areas as engine design, frame and structures, suspension systems, and aerodynamics attracted worldwide attention. He […]

In 1931, Tatra introduced the T-57 model, with air-cooled, 4 cylinder, overhead valve engines placed in the front. The T-57 was one of Tatra’s most popular models and remained in production until after World War II. The example shown here is a T-57b. It was produced in various body styles. The T-57 was nicknamed “Hadimrška”

Design of the T-97 was finalized by Erich Ledwinka, one of Hans Ledwinka’s sons, and was developed alongside the T-87. It was in effect a slightly scaled down version of the T-87 and was almost identical in style. The most obvious styling difference between the two models is the lack of the sixth window on

In the late 1960s, it became time to start work on the design of a new Tatra to take over the role of flagship for the Communist officials. The new model – the T-613 you see here, was the first Tatra styled outside the Tatra factory. Vingale of Italy did the body styling. The T-613

Marcel Leyat was a degreed engineer who designed, built, and flew his first airplane in 1909. Leyat developed the belief that propeller-driven vehicles were the wave of the future, and in 1913, built his first propeller-driven car. He tested this 1913 car extensively, and in 1919 Leyat began production of the model you see here.

A.B.C. began producing motorboat and airplane engines prior to World War I, and by the early 1910s, they began producing engines for motorcycles and cyclecars. By 1920, they formed a new company called A.B.C. motors to make airplane engines, motorcycles, and a new light car. The vehicles were to be powered by flat-twin engines designed

Otas offered two FIAT-based sports cars–most were based on a FIAT 500, 850 or 128. While this car was more costly than FIAT’s 850 coupé, it was far more exclusive. One was shown at the 1970 New York International Auto Show. This fiberglass body was designed by Francis Lombardi. Notice it has only one windshield

Saab began as developers of airplanes. After World War II, it was obvious that air transportation might not become commercially viable for decades. Saab began looking for an alternative product. After considering household appliances and prefabricated homes, the company decided to stay in the transport sector. The Saab 92 became their first car produced (the

In 1956, Renault came out with a new model called the Dauphine. It was essentially an updated 4CV with a larger body and more power. The Dauphine was also the first Renault to be imported to the United States in large numbers with 200,000 coming in from 1957-1960. The Dauphine was a very successful mid-range