USA vs Italy — 1965 vs 1966
| GT350 R-Model | GT America 5300 Corsa | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 306 hp | 365 hp |
| Torque | 329 lb-ft | 380 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 4,736 cc | 5,359 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 5.7 sec | 5.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 135 mph | 168 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.0 sec | 13.8 sec |
| Weight | 2,800 lbs | 2,601 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,743 mm | 2,450 mm |
| Length | 4,613 mm | 4,267 mm |
| Units Produced | 562 | 18 |
| Original MSRP | $4,547 | $12,000 |
| Value (Excellent) | $500,000 | $850,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 8/10 | 9/10 |
The 1966 Bizzarrini GT America 5300 Corsa emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1965 Shelby GT350 R-Model counters with stronger collectibility, better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
Putting the 1965 Shelby GT350 R-Model against the 1966 Bizzarrini GT America 5300 Corsa is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — USA versus Italy. The 1966 Bizzarrini GT America 5300 Corsa holds a clear advantage in raw power with 365 hp compared to 306 hp, a 59-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Shelby GT350 uses a V8 OHV (Ford 289 Hi-Po) displacing 4,736 cc, while the Bizzarrini GT America relies on a V8 OHV with 5,359 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1966 Bizzarrini GT America 5300 Corsa edges ahead at 5.5 seconds versus 5.7 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 18 units built, the 1966 Bizzarrini GT America 5300 Corsa is considerably scarcer than the Shelby GT350's 562 examples. On the collector market, the 1966 Bizzarrini GT America 5300 Corsa commands a significant premium over the 1965 Shelby GT350 R-Model, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.