Germany vs USA — 1969 vs 1966
| RS1000 Standard | GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 70 hp | 306 hp |
| Torque | 72 lb-ft | 329 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 992 cc | 4,736 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 11.0 sec | 6.6 sec |
| Top Speed | 106 mph | 127 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 18.0 sec | 14.7 sec |
| Weight | 1,499 lbs | 2,800 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,300 mm | 2,743 mm |
| Length | 3,910 mm | 4,613 mm |
| Units Produced | 101 | 1,001 |
| Original MSRP | — | $4,547 |
| Value (Excellent) | $200,000 | $450,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 9/10 | 8/10 |
Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1969 Melkus RS1000 Standard excels in lighter weight, greater rarity, better value, while the 1966 Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer stands out for more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.
Putting the 1969 Melkus RS1000 Standard 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 — Germany versus USA. The 1966 Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer holds a clear advantage in raw power with 306 hp compared to 70 hp, a 236-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Melkus RS1000 uses a Inline-3 Two-Stroke displacing 992 cc, while the Shelby GT350H relies on a V8 OHV 16V with 4,736 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1966 Shelby GT350H Hertz Rent-A-Racer edges ahead at 6.6 seconds versus 11.0 seconds. The Melkus RS1000 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1301 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 101 units built, the 1969 Melkus RS1000 Standard is considerably scarcer than the Shelby GT350H's 1,001 examples.