USA vs USA — 1966 vs 1989
| Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer | Taurus SHO 1st Gen 3.0 V6 Yamaha | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 306 hp | 220 hp |
| Torque | 329 lb-ft | 205 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 4,736 cc | 2,986 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 6.6 sec | 6.6 sec |
| Top Speed | 130 mph | 143 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.9 sec | 15.0 sec |
| Weight | 2,850 lbs | 3,300 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,743 mm | 2,692 mm |
| Length | 4,613 mm | 4,785 mm |
| Units Produced | 1,001 | — |
| Original MSRP | $4,547 | $19,739 |
| Value (Excellent) | $450,000 | $20,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 6/10 |
| Rarity | 9/10 | 5/10 |
Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1966 Ford Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer excels in more power, lighter weight, stronger collectibility, while the 1989 Ford Taurus SHO 1st Gen 3.0 V6 Yamaha stands out for quicker acceleration, higher top speed, better value. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.
The 1966 Ford Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer and 1989 Ford Taurus SHO 1st Gen 3.0 V6 Yamaha 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 1966 Ford Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer holds a clear advantage in raw power with 306 hp compared to 220 hp, a 86-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 Taurus SHO relies on a V6 DOHC 24-valve with 2,986 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1989 Ford Taurus SHO 1st Gen 3.0 V6 Yamaha edges ahead at 6.6 seconds versus 6.6 seconds. The Ford Shelby GT350H carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 450 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 1966 Ford Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer commands a significant premium over the 1989 Ford Taurus SHO 1st Gen 3.0 V6 Yamaha, 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.