Australia vs USA — 1971 vs 1966
| Valiant Charger E49 | Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 302 hp | 306 hp |
| Torque | 315 lb-ft | 329 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 4,342 cc | 4,736 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 6.1 sec | 6.6 sec |
| Top Speed | 140 mph | 130 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.4 sec | 14.9 sec |
| Weight | 2,954 lbs | 2,850 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,743 mm | 2,743 mm |
| Length | 4,623 mm | 4,613 mm |
| Units Produced | 149 | 1,001 |
| Original MSRP | — | $4,547 |
| Value (Excellent) | $900,000 | $450,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 10/10 | 9/10 |
The 1971 Chrysler Australia Valiant Charger E49 holds an edge across most measurable criteria, offering quicker acceleration, higher top speed, greater rarity. That said, the 1966 Ford Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer brings better value and remains a compelling choice for enthusiasts who value Ford heritage. The right pick depends on whether you prioritize specifications or the intangible qualities that make a car truly special.
Putting the 1971 Chrysler Australia Valiant Charger E49 against the 1966 Ford Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — Australia versus USA. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1971 Chrysler Australia Valiant Charger E49 producing 302 hp and the 1966 Ford Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer delivering 306 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Chrysler Australia Valiant Charger uses a Inline-6 OHV Hemi displacing 4,342 cc, while the Ford Shelby GT350H relies on a V8 OHV with 4,736 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1971 Chrysler Australia Valiant Charger E49 edges ahead at 6.1 seconds versus 6.6 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 149 units built, the 1971 Chrysler Australia Valiant Charger E49 is considerably scarcer than the Ford Shelby GT350H's 1,001 examples. On the collector market, the 1971 Chrysler Australia Valiant Charger E49 commands a significant premium over the 1966 Ford Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.