Tatra 623


The T-623 is a Czech rear-engined car, which was manufactured by Tatra. It was designed as a rapid response vehicle for use in motorsport and civilian operations.
The car was based on second-hand Tatra 613-2 model, which was originally modified by AMK Narex who specialized in rescue operations. This business had been set up by former racer, Cyril Svoboda, who was notorious for having adapted a Lancia Beta for rescue duties.
In 1984, AMK Narex had produced six T-623. The success of the T-623 resulted in Tatra carrying out further modifications, in collaboration with Narex and Kovoslužba rescue organizations.
Because of the need of organizers for a car capable of keeping up with F1 cars on the opening race, the then T-623 was further developed into the 2-seat, lightweight and more powerful T-623 R. It led to a fleet of eight cars being used in Formula One as the safety cars at the inaugural 1986 Hungarian Grand Prix. The latest Hungarian Grand Prix that T-623 R took part in was held in 1995, where Taki Inoue was hit by the car.
The car now featured a 3.8-Litre V8 engine producing over, and was capable of a top speed of. Its features included: a removable steering wheel and racing seats; adjustable and lowered suspension; upgraded braking system and tyres. Its aluminum fenders, hood, and doors, plus plexiglass windows, contributed to a kerb weight of or a significant weight reduction of 350 kg.
The rescue cars were eventually replaced mostly by modified Škoda Octavia models. Nevertheless, the T-623 went on to form the basis of the Czech first super-sports car, the MTX Tatra V8.