France vs USA — 1962 vs 1966
| Caravelle 1100S Convertible | GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 55 hp | 306 hp |
| Torque | 61 lb-ft | 329 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,108 cc | 4,736 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 17.0 sec | 6.6 sec |
| Top Speed | 90 mph | 127 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 20.5 sec | 14.7 sec |
| Weight | 1,830 lbs | 2,800 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,270 mm | 2,743 mm |
| Length | 4,280 mm | 4,613 mm |
| Units Produced | 117,000 | 1,001 |
| Original MSRP | $2,100 | $4,547 |
| Value (Excellent) | $35,000 | $450,000 |
| Collectibility | 6/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 6/10 | 8/10 |
Numbers favor the 1966 Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1962 Renault Caravelle 1100S Convertible offers lighter weight, 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 France and USA automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1962 Renault Caravelle 1100S Convertible 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 55 hp, a 251-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Renault Caravelle uses a Inline-4 OHV displacing 1,108 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 17.0 seconds. The Renault Caravelle carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 970 lbs lighter. 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 Renault Caravelle's 117,000 examples. On the collector market, the 1966 Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer commands a significant premium over the 1962 Renault Caravelle 1100S Convertible, 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.