Chevrolet Chevelle

vs

Ford Shelby GT350H

USA vs USA — 1966 vs 1966

Chevrolet Chevelle (1966)
Ford Shelby GT350H (1966)
Specifications
Chevelle SS 396 WagonShelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer
Horsepower325 hp306 hp
Torque410 lb-ft329 lb-ft
Engine Size6,489 cc4,736 cc
0-60 mph7.5 sec6.6 sec
Top Speed124 mph130 mph
¼ Mile15.2 sec14.9 sec
Weight2,850 lbs
Wheelbase2,946 mm2,743 mm
Length5,080 mm4,613 mm
Units Produced1,001
Original MSRP$4,547
Value (Excellent)$85,000$450,000
Collectibility5/1010/10
Rarity9/109/10
The Verdict

The 1966 Ford Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering quicker acceleration, higher top speed, stronger collectibility. The 1966 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396 Wagon counters with 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.

Overview

The 1966 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396 Wagon and 1966 Ford Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer stand as two of the most notable Muscle Car cars from Muscle era. Both emerged during a period of intense competition, and choosing between them remains a passionate debate among collectors. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1966 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396 Wagon producing 325 hp and the 1966 Ford Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer delivering 306 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Chevrolet Chevelle uses a V8 OHV 16V displacing 6,489 cc, while the Ford Shelby GT350H relies on a V8 OHV with 4,736 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1966 Ford Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer edges ahead at 6.6 seconds versus 7.5 seconds. On the collector market, the 1966 Ford Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer commands a significant premium over the 1966 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396 Wagon, 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.