Italy vs USA — 1963 vs 1966
| Giulia Sprint Speciale (SS) | GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 112 hp | 306 hp |
| Torque | 101 lb-ft | 329 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,570 cc | 4,736 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 10.5 sec | 6.6 sec |
| Top Speed | 124 mph | 127 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 17.5 sec | 14.7 sec |
| Weight | — | 2,800 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,380 mm | 2,743 mm |
| Length | 4,220 mm | 4,613 mm |
| Units Produced | 1,400 | 1,001 |
| Original MSRP | — | $4,547 |
| Value (Excellent) | $180,000 | $450,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 8/10 | 8/10 |
The 1966 Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1963 Alfa Romeo Giulia Sprint Speciale (SS) 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.
Putting the 1963 Alfa Romeo Giulia Sprint Speciale (SS) 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 112 hp, a 194-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Alfa Romeo Giulia uses a Inline-4 DOHC 8V displacing 1,570 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 10.5 seconds. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1966 Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.