USA vs Italy — 1949 vs 1957
| Hotshot Super Sport | Appia GTE Zagato | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 27 hp | 60 hp |
| Torque | 31 lb-ft | 59 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 724 cc | 1,090 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 20.5 sec | 15.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 85 mph | 96 mph |
| Weight | 1,100 lbs | 1,720 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,159 mm | 2,510 mm |
| Length | 3,810 mm | 3,930 mm |
| Units Produced | 2,498 | 200 |
| Original MSRP | $849 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $55,000 | $200,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 8/10 | 8/10 |
The 1957 Lancia Appia GTE Zagato emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1949 Crosley Hotshot Super Sport counters with lighter weight, better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
When USA engineering meets Italy craftsmanship, the result is one of the most compelling matchups in the classic car world. The 1949 Crosley Hotshot Super Sport and 1957 Lancia Appia GTE Zagato embody their respective national automotive traditions while competing in the same arena. The 1957 Lancia Appia GTE Zagato holds a clear advantage in raw power with 60 hp compared to 27 hp, a 33-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Crosley Hotshot uses a I4 OHC displacing 724 cc, while the Lancia Appia relies on a V4 OHV with 1,090 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1957 Lancia Appia GTE Zagato edges ahead at 15.0 seconds versus 20.5 seconds. The Crosley Hotshot carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 620 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 200 units built, the 1957 Lancia Appia GTE Zagato is considerably scarcer than the Crosley Hotshot's 2,498 examples. On the collector market, the 1957 Lancia Appia GTE Zagato commands a significant premium over the 1949 Crosley Hotshot Super Sport, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.