Italy vs USA — 1974 vs 1966
| GTV6 2.5 V6 | GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 160 hp | 306 hp |
| Torque | 160 lb-ft | 329 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,492 cc | 4,736 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 8.4 sec | 6.6 sec |
| Top Speed | 130 mph | 127 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 16.3 sec | 14.7 sec |
| Weight | — | 2,800 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,400 mm | 2,743 mm |
| Length | 4,180 mm | 4,613 mm |
| Units Produced | 21,458 | 1,001 |
| Original MSRP | — | $4,547 |
| Value (Excellent) | $45,000 | $450,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 8/10 |
The 1966 Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, greater rarity. The 1974 Alfa Romeo GTV6 2.5 V6 counters with higher top speed, better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
Putting the 1974 Alfa Romeo GTV6 2.5 V6 against the 1966 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 — Italy versus USA. The 1966 Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer holds a clear advantage in raw power with 306 hp compared to 160 hp, a 146-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Alfa Romeo GTV6 uses a V6 SOHC 12V displacing 2,492 cc, while the Shelby GT350H relies on a V8 OHV 16V with 4,736 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1966 Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer edges ahead at 6.6 seconds versus 8.4 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 1,001 units built, the 1966 Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer is considerably scarcer than the Alfa Romeo GTV6's 21,458 examples. On the collector market, the 1966 Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer commands a significant premium over the 1974 Alfa Romeo GTV6 2.5 V6, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1966 Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.