USA vs USA — 1964 vs 1966
| GTO Tri-Power | Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 360 hp | 306 hp |
| Torque | 424 lb-ft | 329 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 6,376 cc | 4,736 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 5.7 sec | 6.6 sec |
| Top Speed | 125 mph | 130 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.1 sec | 14.9 sec |
| Weight | — | 2,850 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,921 mm | 2,743 mm |
| Length | 5,118 mm | 4,613 mm |
| Units Produced | 32,450 | 1,001 |
| Original MSRP | — | $4,547 |
| Value (Excellent) | $140,000 | $450,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 4/10 | 9/10 |
Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1964 Pontiac GTO Tri-Power excels in more power, quicker acceleration, better value, while the 1966 Ford Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer stands out for higher top speed, greater rarity, stronger collectibility. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.
Among Muscle Car enthusiasts, the matchup between the 1964 Pontiac GTO Tri-Power and 1966 Ford Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer is one for the ages. These Muscle era machines competed directly for buyers' attention and continue to vie for collectors' affections today. The 1964 Pontiac GTO Tri-Power holds a clear advantage in raw power with 360 hp compared to 306 hp, a 54-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Pontiac GTO uses a V8 OHV 16V displacing 6,376 cc, while the Ford Shelby GT350H relies on a V8 OHV with 4,736 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1964 Pontiac GTO Tri-Power edges ahead at 5.7 seconds versus 6.6 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 1,001 units built, the 1966 Ford Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer is considerably scarcer than the Pontiac GTO's 32,450 examples. On the collector market, the 1966 Ford Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer commands a significant premium over the 1964 Pontiac GTO Tri-Power, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1966 Ford Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.