USA vs Italy — 1949 vs 1957
| Hot Shot | Appia GTE Zagato | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 26 hp | 60 hp |
| Torque | 40 lb-ft | 59 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 724 cc | 1,090 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 21.0 sec | 15.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 85 mph | 96 mph |
| Weight | 1,200 lbs | 1,720 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,057 mm | 2,510 mm |
| Length | 3,124 mm | 3,930 mm |
| Units Produced | 2,498 | 200 |
| Original MSRP | $952 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $55,000 | $200,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 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 Hot Shot 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.
Putting the 1949 Crosley Hot Shot against the 1957 Lancia Appia GTE Zagato is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — USA versus Italy. The 1957 Lancia Appia GTE Zagato holds a clear advantage in raw power with 60 hp compared to 26 hp, a 34-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Crosley Hot Shot 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 21.0 seconds. The Crosley Hot Shot carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 520 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 Hot Shot's 2,498 examples. On the collector market, the 1957 Lancia Appia GTE Zagato commands a significant premium over the 1949 Crosley Hot Shot, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.