Behold one of the loveliest V8 GTs of its era…that never made it to production.
Communist Czechoslovakia and gorgeous sleek roadsters are not a common pairing. Wanting to possibly compete in the GT racing circuit, an outside division of Tatra decided to create this beautiful 2 seat coupe. Rendered by Slovak designer…Mr. Julius Kubinsky, a well known designer of F1 & Grand Prix race cars. The JK 2500 build began in 1951 at Karosa Brno, however, completion didn’t occur until late 1955 by Kubinsky himself. Tatra had initially planned to produce 5 vehicles…but only one was ever built due to monetary restrictions.
First fitted with an Alfa Romeo engine and later replaced with a Tatra 603 Sport engine…the car had a tubular lattice frame consisting of wood and metal elements. The body was draped in hand hammered and stylized sheets of steel artistically sculpted by Czech coachbuilder Jan Heger. The short deck/long bonnet proportions are visually classic and the wheel-to-body ratio creatively compliments its sophistication, its athletic aggressive stance, and its appealing sleekness. The two-toned paint scheme with chrome trim artistically borders and finesses’ the distinctive elegance of this treasured automobile even further.
Under the graceful shell of this beautiful coupe you might be surprised to find a front axle and steering system from a KdF military vehicle, same drum brakes as used by Lancia Aurelia and a De Dion type rear axle.
The JK 2500 featured two fuel tanks…one behind each of the rear wheels. Kubinsky brilliantly maintains visual continuity as the cars design line flows harmoniously to meet the shape of the rear fender.
The big V8 is actually front-mid mounted, and the car registered a curb weight of 2557lbs. The JK 2500 was said to have a near perfect weight distribution with 51% in the front and 49% on the rear axle. The Tatra 603 air-cooled 2545cc V8 2.5 liter…delivered 140hp and topped out at 129mph. Tatra who manufactured massive outdoor mechanical and military equipment, also produced luxurious automobiles. Kubinsky approached Tatra for further production, but was declined due to the central control over all factories during the Cold War.
This charming car remained in the care of Kubinsky who drove it for 15 years. At this time no one knows the fate of the JK 2500, as it has never been seen since Kubinskys ownership.
Due to its rarity, exquisite styling and mysterious history…this stunning red/black holy grail of a GT Coupe is expected to bring extremely high numbers when relocated.
Tatra JK2500, the communist Ferrari
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