UK vs Italy — 1956 vs 1957
| 100/6 BN4 | Appia GTE Zagato | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 102 hp | 60 hp |
| Torque | 142 lb-ft | 59 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,639 cc | 1,090 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 11.6 sec | 15.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 109 mph | 96 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 18.3 sec | — |
| Weight | 2,398 lbs | 1,720 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,337 mm | 2,510 mm |
| Length | 3,937 mm | 3,930 mm |
| Units Produced | 10,825 | 200 |
| Original MSRP | $3,100 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $80,000 | $200,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 8/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1956 Austin-Healey 100/6 BN4 brings more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed to the table, and the 1957 Lancia Appia GTE Zagato answers with lighter weight, greater rarity, stronger collectibility. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
The rivalry between UK and Italy automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1956 Austin-Healey 100/6 BN4 versus 1957 Lancia Appia GTE Zagato is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 1956 Austin-Healey 100/6 BN4 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 102 hp compared to 60 hp, a 42-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Austin-Healey 100/6 uses a Inline-6 OHV displacing 2,639 cc, while the Lancia Appia relies on a V4 OHV with 1,090 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1956 Austin-Healey 100/6 BN4 edges ahead at 11.6 seconds versus 15.0 seconds. The Lancia Appia carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 678 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 200 units built, the 1957 Lancia Appia GTE Zagato is considerably scarcer than the Austin-Healey 100/6's 10,825 examples. On the collector market, the 1957 Lancia Appia GTE Zagato commands a significant premium over the 1956 Austin-Healey 100/6 BN4, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.