USA vs USA — 1968 vs 1966
| Road Runner | Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 335 hp | 306 hp |
| Torque | 425 lb-ft | 329 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 6,981 cc | 4,736 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 6.4 sec | 6.6 sec |
| Top Speed | 122 mph | 130 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.2 sec | 14.9 sec |
| Weight | 3,500 lbs | 2,850 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,946 mm | 2,743 mm |
| Length | 5,105 mm | 4,613 mm |
| Units Produced | 84,420 | 1,001 |
| Original MSRP | $2,896 | $4,547 |
| Value (Excellent) | $175,000 | $450,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 9/10 |
The 1966 Ford Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering higher top speed, lighter weight, greater rarity. The 1968 Plymouth Road Runner counters with quicker acceleration, 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.
The 1968 Plymouth Road Runner and 1966 Ford Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer stand as two of the most notable Muscle Car cars from Muscle era. Both emerged during a period of intense competition, and choosing between them remains a passionate debate among collectors. The 1968 Plymouth Road Runner holds a clear advantage in raw power with 335 hp compared to 306 hp, a 29-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Plymouth Road Runner uses a V8 OHV (RB big-block) displacing 6,981 cc, while the Ford Shelby GT350H relies on a V8 OHV with 4,736 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1968 Plymouth Road Runner edges ahead at 6.4 seconds versus 6.6 seconds. The Ford Shelby GT350H carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 650 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 1,001 units built, the 1966 Ford Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer is considerably scarcer than the Plymouth Road Runner's 84,420 examples. On the collector market, the 1966 Ford Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer commands a significant premium over the 1968 Plymouth Road Runner, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.