USA vs USA — 1966 vs 1966
| GTO Tri-Power 389 | Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 360 hp | 306 hp |
| Torque | 424 lb-ft | 329 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 6,374 cc | 4,736 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 6.2 sec | 6.6 sec |
| Top Speed | 130 mph | 130 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.0 sec | 14.9 sec |
| Weight | — | 2,850 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,946 mm | 2,743 mm |
| Length | 5,156 mm | 4,613 mm |
| Units Produced | 96,946 | 1,001 |
| Original MSRP | — | $4,547 |
| Value (Excellent) | $130,000 | $450,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 4/10 | 9/10 |
This matchup is remarkably close. The 1966 Pontiac GTO Tri-Power 389 offers more power, quicker acceleration, better value, while the 1966 Ford Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer counters with greater rarity, stronger collectibility. Neither holds a decisive advantage, making this a true enthusiast's dilemma. Your choice ultimately depends on which driving philosophy resonates more with you.
The 1966 Pontiac GTO Tri-Power 389 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 1966 Pontiac GTO Tri-Power 389 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 360 hp compared to 306 hp, a 54-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1966 Pontiac GTO Tri-Power 389 edges ahead at 6.2 seconds versus 6.6 seconds. 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 Pontiac GTO's 96,946 examples. On the collector market, the 1966 Ford Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer commands a significant premium over the 1966 Pontiac GTO Tri-Power 389, 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.