1955 Austin-Healey 100 vs. 1978 Lancia Gamma
To start off, 1978 Lancia Gamma is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Austin-Healey 100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Austin-Healey 100 would be higher. At 2,660 cc (4 cylinders), 1955 Austin-Healey 100 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Lancia Gamma (116 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Lancia Gamma should accelerate faster than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Lancia Gamma weights approximately 381 kg more than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1955 Austin-Healey 100 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1955 Austin-Healey 100. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Lancia Gamma, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1978 Lancia Gamma (175 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. (144 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1978 Lancia Gamma will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Austin-Healey 100.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Austin-Healey 100 | 1978 Lancia Gamma | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | Lancia |
| Model | 100 | Gamma |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2660 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 945 kg | 1326 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 109 L | 59 L |
