Eastern Block Advertising

Looks like Tatra was also a pioneer in the wild ride ads we now see for American cars.  Wild rides aside, a formidable car.

During the German occupation of Czechoslovakia in the late'30s and early '40s, high-ranking German officers were strictly forbidden to use commandeered Tatra, as the combination of rear-mounted engine, large rear overhang and swing axle configuration resulted in numerous accidents and deaths among unaccustomed drivers.  Though by all accounts, the edict went largely ignored as thrill seekers were attracted to the lively drive. Perhaps this advert, aimed at the western market was an attempt to clarify any safety questions that may have lingered?

And it has a split rear window predating the Corvette!

Split rear screens.  Now there's a novel topic for investigation.  Did they begin with the stabilising  fin so dear to '30s streamlining?

What a great lengthy advertisement for a quite unique Czech vehicle. The Tatra 603 was very versatile with good rough road capabilities. That rapid switch from oversteer to understeer must have taken time to get used to. Lots of power from that rear engine V8. Everyone making the film seemed to have fun. Definitely not affordable for most in the Eastern Bloc.

Thanks for this Charles. Not a common one here. Saw one south of Winnipeg (Carmen, Manitoba) in the 1980s.

I have only seen one Tatra 603. Quite an interesting car both from a style and engineering standpoint. I was impressed by the apparent quality. Thanks for the film Charles.