Japan vs USA — 1969 vs 1966
| Fairlady Z 240Z (S30) | GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 151 hp | 306 hp |
| Torque | 146 lb-ft | 329 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,393 cc | 4,736 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 8.0 sec | 6.6 sec |
| Top Speed | 125 mph | 127 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 15.9 sec | 14.7 sec |
| Weight | 2,352 lbs | 2,800 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,305 mm | 2,743 mm |
| Length | 4,115 mm | 4,613 mm |
| Units Produced | 546,072 | 1,001 |
| Original MSRP | $3,526 | $4,547 |
| Value (Excellent) | $100,000 | $450,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 4/10 | 8/10 |
Numbers favor the 1966 Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1969 Nissan Fairlady Z 240Z (S30) 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 Japan and USA automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1969 Nissan Fairlady Z 240Z (S30) 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 151 hp, a 155-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Nissan Fairlady Z uses a Inline-6 SOHC (L24) displacing 2,393 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 8.0 seconds. The Nissan Fairlady Z carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 448 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 Nissan Fairlady Z's 546,072 examples. On the collector market, the 1966 Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer commands a significant premium over the 1969 Nissan Fairlady Z 240Z (S30), reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.