Ford Shelby GT350H

vs

Ford SVT Lightning

USA vs USA — 1966 vs 1999

Ford Shelby GT350H (1966)
Ford SVT Lightning (1999)
Specifications
Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-RacerSVT Lightning Supercharged
Horsepower306 hp380 hp
Torque329 lb-ft450 lb-ft
Engine Size4,736 cc5,408 cc
0-60 mph6.6 sec5.2 sec
Top Speed130 mph143 mph
¼ Mile14.9 sec13.7 sec
Weight2,850 lbs4,500 lbs
Wheelbase2,743 mm3,378 mm
Length4,613 mm5,384 mm
Units Produced1,00128,000
Original MSRP$4,547$33,995
Value (Excellent)$450,000$60,000
Collectibility10/107/10
Rarity9/106/10
The Verdict

Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1966 Ford Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer excels in lighter weight, greater rarity, stronger collectibility, while the 1999 Ford SVT Lightning Supercharged stands out for more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.

Overview

The 1966 Ford Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer and 1999 Ford SVT Lightning Supercharged share a manufacturer in Ford, but that's where the similarities get interesting. These two models reveal the versatility and ambition of the Ford brand. The 1999 Ford SVT Lightning Supercharged holds a clear advantage in raw power with 380 hp compared to 306 hp, a 74-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Ford Shelby GT350H uses a V8 OHV displacing 4,736 cc, while the Ford SVT Lightning relies on a V8 SOHC Supercharged with 5,408 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1999 Ford SVT Lightning Supercharged edges ahead at 5.2 seconds versus 6.6 seconds. The Ford Shelby GT350H carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1650 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 1,001 units built, the 1966 Ford Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer is considerably scarcer than the Ford SVT Lightning's 28,000 examples. On the collector market, the 1966 Ford Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer commands a significant premium over the 1999 Ford SVT Lightning Supercharged, 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.