Austin-Healey 100/6

vs

Alfa Romeo 1900

UK vs Italy — 1956 vs 1950

Austin-Healey 100/6 (1956)
Alfa Romeo 1900 (1950)
Specifications
100/6 BN41900 Sprint Zagato
Horsepower102 hp115 hp
Torque142 lb-ft120 lb-ft
Engine Size2,639 cc1,975 cc
0-60 mph11.6 sec10.5 sec
Top Speed109 mph124 mph
¼ Mile18.3 sec17.5 sec
Weight2,398 lbs2,028 lbs
Wheelbase2,337 mm2,500 mm
Length3,937 mm4,310 mm
Units Produced10,82521,304
Original MSRP$3,100
Value (Excellent)$80,000$400,000
Collectibility7/108/10
Rarity5/107/10
The Verdict

The 1950 Alfa Romeo 1900 Sprint Zagato emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1956 Austin-Healey 100/6 BN4 counters with 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.

Overview

When UK engineering meets Italy craftsmanship, the result is one of the most compelling matchups in the classic car world. The 1956 Austin-Healey 100/6 BN4 and 1950 Alfa Romeo 1900 Sprint Zagato embody their respective national automotive traditions while competing in the same arena. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1956 Austin-Healey 100/6 BN4 producing 102 hp and the 1950 Alfa Romeo 1900 Sprint Zagato delivering 115 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Austin-Healey 100/6 uses a Inline-6 OHV displacing 2,639 cc, while the Alfa Romeo 1900 relies on a Inline-4 DOHC with 1,975 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1950 Alfa Romeo 1900 Sprint Zagato edges ahead at 10.5 seconds versus 11.6 seconds. The Alfa Romeo 1900 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 370 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 1950 Alfa Romeo 1900 Sprint Zagato commands a significant premium over the 1956 Austin-Healey 100/6 BN4, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.