Brazil vs USA — 1972 vs 1966
| SP2 | GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 75 hp | 306 hp |
| Torque | — | 329 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,679 cc | 4,736 cc |
| 0-60 mph | — | 6.6 sec |
| Top Speed | — | 127 mph |
| ¼ Mile | — | 14.7 sec |
| Weight | — | 2,800 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,400 mm | 2,743 mm |
| Length | 4,135 mm | 4,613 mm |
| Units Produced | 10,205 | 1,001 |
| Original MSRP | — | $4,547 |
| Value (Excellent) | $40,000 | $450,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 10/10 | 8/10 |
Numbers favor the 1966 Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer with more power, greater rarity, stronger collectibility. The 1972 Volkswagen SP2 offers better value, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.
The rivalry between Brazil and USA automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1972 Volkswagen SP2 versus 1966 Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 1966 Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer holds a clear advantage in raw power with 306 hp compared to 75 hp, a 231-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Volkswagen SP2 uses a Flat-4 displacing 1,679 cc, while the Shelby GT350H relies on a V8 OHV 16V with 4,736 cc. 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 Volkswagen SP2's 10,205 examples. On the collector market, the 1966 Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer commands a significant premium over the 1972 Volkswagen SP2, 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.