UK vs USA — 1968 vs 1966
| Plus Eight | GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 160 hp | 306 hp |
| Torque | 205 lb-ft | 329 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 3,528 cc | 4,736 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 5.6 sec | 6.6 sec |
| Top Speed | 125 mph | 127 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.0 sec | 14.7 sec |
| Weight | 2,028 lbs | 2,800 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,490 mm | 2,743 mm |
| Length | 3,962 mm | 4,613 mm |
| Units Produced | 6,200 | 1,001 |
| Original MSRP | $18,000 | $4,547 |
| Value (Excellent) | $100,000 | $450,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 6/10 | 8/10 |
Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1968 Morgan Plus Eight excels in quicker acceleration, lighter weight, better value, while the 1966 Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer stands out for more power, higher top speed, greater rarity. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.
Putting the 1968 Morgan Plus Eight against the 1966 Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — UK versus USA. The 1966 Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer holds a clear advantage in raw power with 306 hp compared to 160 hp, a 146-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Morgan Plus Eight uses a V8 OHV displacing 3,528 cc, while the Shelby GT350H relies on a V8 OHV 16V with 4,736 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1968 Morgan Plus Eight edges ahead at 5.6 seconds versus 6.6 seconds. The Morgan Plus Eight carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 772 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 Morgan Plus Eight's 6,200 examples. On the collector market, the 1966 Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer commands a significant premium over the 1968 Morgan Plus Eight, 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.