Oldsmobile 442

vs

Ford Shelby GT350H

USA vs USA — 1964 vs 1966

Oldsmobile 442 (1964)
Ford Shelby GT350H (1966)
Specifications
442 W-30Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer
Horsepower370 hp306 hp
Torque500 lb-ft329 lb-ft
Engine Size7,456 cc4,736 cc
0-60 mph5.7 sec6.6 sec
Top Speed130 mph130 mph
¼ Mile13.7 sec14.9 sec
Weight3,600 lbs2,850 lbs
Wheelbase2,845 mm2,743 mm
Length5,156 mm4,613 mm
Units Produced4,5761,001
Original MSRP$3,312$4,547
Value (Excellent)$180,000$450,000
Collectibility9/1010/10
Rarity7/109/10
The Verdict

Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1964 Oldsmobile 442 W-30 excels in more power, quicker acceleration, better value, while the 1966 Ford Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer stands out for lighter weight, greater rarity, stronger collectibility. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.

Overview

Among Muscle Car enthusiasts, the matchup between the 1964 Oldsmobile 442 W-30 and 1966 Ford Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer is one for the ages. These Muscle era machines competed directly for buyers' attention and continue to vie for collectors' affections today. The 1964 Oldsmobile 442 W-30 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 370 hp compared to 306 hp, a 64-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Oldsmobile 442 uses a V8 OHV (Oldsmobile 455) displacing 7,456 cc, while the Ford Shelby GT350H relies on a V8 OHV with 4,736 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1964 Oldsmobile 442 W-30 edges ahead at 5.7 seconds versus 6.6 seconds. The Ford Shelby GT350H carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 750 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 Oldsmobile 442's 4,576 examples. On the collector market, the 1966 Ford Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer commands a significant premium over the 1964 Oldsmobile 442 W-30, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.