USA vs USA — 1968 vs 1966
| 442 W-30 | Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 370 hp | 306 hp |
| Torque | 500 lb-ft | 329 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 7,456 cc | 4,736 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 5.7 sec | 6.6 sec |
| Top Speed | 123 mph | 130 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 13.7 sec | 14.9 sec |
| Weight | — | 2,850 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,845 mm | 2,743 mm |
| Length | 5,207 mm | 4,613 mm |
| Units Produced | 1,915 | 1,001 |
| Original MSRP | — | $4,547 |
| Value (Excellent) | $180,000 | $450,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 8/10 | 9/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1968 Oldsmobile 442 W-30 brings more power, quicker acceleration, better value to the table, and the 1966 Ford Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer answers with higher top speed, stronger collectibility. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
In the world of Muscle Car cars, few comparisons generate as much discussion as the 1968 Oldsmobile 442 W-30 versus the 1966 Ford Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer. Both hail from Muscle era and represent the pinnacle of their respective manufacturers' ambitions. The 1968 Oldsmobile 442 W-30 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 370 hp compared to 306 hp, a 64-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Oldsmobile 442 uses a V8 OHV 16V displacing 7,456 cc, while the Ford Shelby GT350H relies on a V8 OHV with 4,736 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1968 Oldsmobile 442 W-30 edges ahead at 5.7 seconds versus 6.6 seconds. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1966 Ford Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.