USA vs UK — 1951 vs 1954
| Hot Shot | 100 S | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 26 hp | 132 hp |
| Torque | 40 lb-ft | 160 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 724 cc | 2,660 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 21.0 sec | 10.3 sec |
| Top Speed | 84 mph | 110 mph |
| ¼ Mile | — | 17.8 sec |
| Weight | 1,200 lbs | 2,183 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,032 mm | 2,286 mm |
| Length | 3,048 mm | 3,912 mm |
| Units Produced | 2,498 | 3,924 |
| Original MSRP | $952 | $2,995 |
| Value (Excellent) | $45,000 | $95,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 6/10 |
The 1954 Austin-Healey 100 S emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1951 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 1951 Crosley Hot Shot against the 1954 Austin-Healey 100 S is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — USA versus UK. The 1954 Austin-Healey 100 S holds a clear advantage in raw power with 132 hp compared to 26 hp, a 106-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Crosley Hot Shot uses a Inline-4 SOHC displacing 724 cc, while the Austin-Healey 100 relies on a Inline-4 OHV with 2,660 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1954 Austin-Healey 100 S edges ahead at 10.3 seconds versus 21.0 seconds. The Crosley Hot Shot carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 983 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 1954 Austin-Healey 100 S commands a significant premium over the 1951 Crosley Hot Shot, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.