1955 Austin-Healey 100 vs. 1997 Lancia K
To start off, 1997 Lancia K is newer by 42 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 2,958 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Lancia K is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Lancia K (204 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Lancia K should accelerate faster than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Lancia K weights approximately 595 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, 1997 Lancia K, 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, 1997 Lancia K (270 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. (144 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1997 Lancia K will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. 1997 Lancia K has automatic transmission and 1955 Austin-Healey 100 has manual transmission. 1955 Austin-Healey 100 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Lancia K will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Austin-Healey 100 | 1997 Lancia K | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | Lancia |
| Model | 100 | K |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2660 cc | 2958 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 945 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 109 L | 70 L |
