The Tatra 111 contributed significantly to the rebuilding effort during the postwar era, mainly in Eastern Europe and the USSR.

The design was based on the proven Tatra concept of a backbone tube chassis construction with swing half axles, a modular gearbox and differential assemblies.

The engines had power output of 210 horsepower at 2250 rpm mainly for war use (An average life expectancy during combat for Wehrmacht was 6 hours.)

The T111 engine was widely used in the variety of other vehicles such as a heavy tractor T141, a railway car M 131, airport tugs and pontoon bridges used by the army.

The Tatra T111's exploits in Siberia had earned its reputation, and its legendary reliability contributed to its iconic status among those who drove and lived in those conditions.